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A Net ball

Netball for Kids

Netball is a ball sport played on a rectangular court by two teams of seven players each. Players score goals by shooting the ball through their opponent's goal ring. Derived from basketball, netball originated in England in the 1890s, with codified versions of the game appearing in the 1960s. Netball was formally ratified in Australia in 1927, and the official governing body Netball Australia formed in 1993. Netball is one of the most popular female recreational sports in the world, with male involvement increasing since the 1980s. With the advent of mixed netball, it was estimated in 2006 that there were as many males playing netball as Rugby Union.

The objective of netball is to score more goals than the opposing team. Players can move either one or two thirds on the court, and are assigned to attack or defend. Players are permitted to hold the ball for three seconds before passing it on, and must be stationary when holding the ball. Games last 60 minutes, broken up into 15 minute quarters.

A Net ball A Net ball

A video of Netball for Kids

Australian Kids Playing Netball

Information on Netball for Kids in Australia

Is this sport for your kids?

Netball is a team sport in which tactics, strategy and teamwork are vital in securing victory wich makes it a great kids' activity. Kids learn ball / eye coordination, and increase fitness and stamina levels playing  Netball. There is also a thriving Australian wheelchair netball league.

Netball is a non-contact sport, with penalties for players who breach this rule.

Netball Australia runs programs for girls and boys from the ages of 5 and up. There is also a modified game called Netta's for 8-10 year olds, in which children rotate positions each quarter.

Get started!

Kids only need the following clothing and equipment:

  • Netball skirt or shorts / t-shirt
  • Running shoes
  • Ball
  • Positional bib

Netball is widely played across Australia, with Netball Clubs in most local areas.. Prices can vary, but generally average out to $200 per player per season. Your local Netball Associations, provide support, Netball Coaches and help with the rules. You can find your local Netball Grounds in the ActiveActivities directory.

Tips for success

  • Practice your stops, starts and pivots for a better game
  • Warm and stretch your ankles before playing

Stars and Events not to be missed!

The most cherished trophy in international netball is the World Netball Championships. The Australian Netball team, the Diamonds, have long been the world's most dominant netball force, winning the championship a stunning 10 out of 13 times. Notable players include Liz Ellis, the most capped player in Australian netball history, and Natasha Chokljat. Netball is also an Olympic sport, and played at the Commonwealth Games.

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