How to Defend in Netball

Last Updated: March 24, 2023

Netball is a non-contact intermittent sport played by a side of 7 athletes. The aim is to score the highest number of goals while limiting the goals against you. Each player on the team has a part to play when it comes to defending. Players need to work collectively in order to slow down the speed of the attack, by limiting the passing options and forcing errors in order to gain possession of the ball. It's your job as the defender to be aware of the ball and anticipate where your attacking player will run.^{[1]
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Steps

1
Stand side on to the attacking player, which allows you to see both the attacker and ball simultaneously.
2
When intercepting the ball side on, make sure it's always your outer arm (arm furthest from the attacker) to avoid contact.

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3
Make sure you 'push' your attacker wide by stopping your attacker from getting close to the net by:
- Using your body to block them from moving
- Stand behind them (straight)
4
As a defender you are very important so you need to be alert. Move on your tiptoes and be in a position that will allow you to react and adjust quickly.^{[2]
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5
Feet should be shoulder-width apart and your body mass is equally balanced on the balls of your feet.
6
When the attacker/opposing player is passing the ball, as a defender you must make sure to stand one meter / 100 centimeters (39.4 in) with both arms up and on your tiptoes to block the attacker^{[3]
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7
As a GD or GK, when the shooter is in position to shoot, make sure you are one meter / 100 centimeters (39.4 in) away with both or one arm marking the shot, depending on your height.
- If you are short, lean side on with one arm up leaning and stretching.
- Count to three seconds and then jump to block the shot.
- If you are tall, stretch both legs and arms while positioning your feet towards the attacker; make sure you do not touch the ball. As this will result in obstruction of play.
- While the other circle defender it marking the shot, the other should be prepared to retrieve the rebounds.
8
Remain on your toes and aware of the game situation and be prepared for the turnovers as your team will need you.^{[4]
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9
Stand in a position that allows you to quickly adjust to the motion of play, using quick agile steps to react to changes in the opposing players movement. This will be achieved by continually changing your speed and direction when you want to withdraw from the player you are marking. This is so that you can help the rest of your team by being available to pass to. Subsequently, by following this rule, you can tire out your opponent quite easily!^{[5]
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Community Q&A

Question

How do I make sure that I see my partner all the time?

Community Answer

Stand next to your partner, but move your body to face them side-on. Make sure you leave your outer side open to allow you to see the game. Try to stick with your partner all the time to avoid losing them. Keep your partner in the corner of your eye.
Question

Should I stand face-to-face with the other player?

Ehster

Community Answer

Not necessarily. By doing so, you become distracted and are unable to view the play. This puts you, the defender, in a vulnerable position as you cannot see the ball. Therefore, you're not able to react as quickly. By standing sideways, you are able to see both the attacker and ball.
Question

What skill can I use when defending in Netball?

Community Answer

Side on marking is good, because you can see the player and the ball at all times. When defending, you don’t always have to catch the ball for an interception. If you can’t catch, don’t just let the attacker get it, you can smack it away before they catch it.