The Game of Netball
NETBALL is a fast, skillful team game based on running, jumping, throwing and catching. Teams may include up to 12 players but only 7 may take the court at any one time.
Each player has a playing position determined by the areas on the court where they may move. The playing positions are shown by identification letters worn above the waist, on both the front and the back of the player.
The positions are:
GS – Goal Shooter GK – Goal Keeper
GA – Goal Attack C – Centre GD – Goal Defence
WA – Wing Attack WD – Wing Defence
The major aim of the game is to score as many goals as is possible from within an area called the Goal Circle, which is a semi-circle centred on the goal line and measuring 4.9 metres in radius (16 feet). Only two players from each team may score goals, the Goal Attack and Goal Shooter.
Officials
Match Officials are two umpires and one reserve umpire.
Technical Officials are two scorers and two timekeepers.
Team Officials include a Coach and at least one Primary Care Person, who are qualified to diagnose and treat injury or illness (for example Doctor and/or Physiotherapist). Other positions usually include Assistant Coach and Team Manager.
Equipment
The Ball is made of leather, rubber or similar material, weighing 400 – 450 gms (14 – 16 ounces) and measuring 690 – 710 mms (27 – 28 inches) in circumference.
The Court is 30.5 metres (100 feet) long and 15.25 metres (50 feet) wide, which is divided into thirds. There is a center circle with a diameter of 0.9 metres (3 feet) and two goal circles which are semi-circles measuring 4.9 metres (16 feet) in radius.
All lines are part of the court and measure 50mm (2 inches) in width.
The Goal Posts are placed mid point of each goal line and measure 3.05 metres (10 feet) in height. The goal rings have an internal diameter of 380mm (15 inches). The goal ring projects horizontally from the post on a single attachment measuring 150mm (6 inches) in length.
Playing Time
A game consists of 4 x 15 minute quarters with an interval of 4 minutes between the first and second and third and fourth quarters and a 8 minute half time interval.
The Playing Rules
Please visit the INF Website for the full version of Netball Rules.