Head up, arms down, and feet moving! It’s time to focus on defending in netball.
In this article about defending in netball, we will cover:
- Principles of defending
- Coaching points for defending in netball
- Types of defense in netball
- Split circle defense
- V defense
- Diamond defense
- 1 v 1 defense
The Principles of Defending in Netball
There are four key principles to defending in netball. These principles are then supported by three stages, and players can shift between all three throughout a game or might choose to stick to one style.
Principles of defending:
- Getting ball side
- Keeping weight balanced
- Dictating the space and challenging the ball
- Communicating with teammates
Players can then decide how they defend, often taught in 3 stages:
- Marking the player
- Marking the ball
- Marking the space
Coaching points for Defending in Netball
Below are ten key areas coaches should focus on during defensive coaching sessions:
- Players should keep their feet shoulder-width apart
- Knees slightly bent, upright stance
- Angled body position at the side of the attacker
- Head and eye up to see players and the ball at all times
- Arms down and close to their side
- Shadow the attacker and run into the space to challenge the ball
- Try not to turn your head, move your feet fast to keep your body facing the ball
- Always try to challenge the ball with two hands
- Run onto the ball
- Ensure players are communicating with one another
It goes without saying that coaching a player to think of all ten points for defending in netball comes with time and practice so start by asking your players to add in one ingredient at a time.
Types of defense in netball
Here are some popular types of defense in netball. The type of defensive formation you choose will depend on the abilities of your players and the style of the team you play against.
Split circle defense
The aim is to set up the intercept for your defensive partner. In split circle defense, players work as a pair and each plays a side of the circle.
Defenders must stay loose on the attacker’s body, position slightly off the body to tempt the mid-court into feeding the ball without giving away penalties.
V defense
In netball, “V” defense is a technique where two players work together to shut down an attacking player and create turnovers by restricting the driving player’s space.
Effective communication is essential for “V” defense to be successful by allowing players to cover long drives as a unit.
1 v 1 defense
This style of defense controls players using shadowing and pressure tactics to shut down opponents by guiding them into uncomfortable positions.
Communication should be clear and loud, encouraging gradual improvement during defensive drills.
How to communicate in netball
Effective communication is key to keeping teams connected and improving defensive strategies.
Qualities of netball teams that defend well
Defending requires persistence and discipline. Great defensive teams work tirelessly as units, showcasing qualities like selflessness, commitment, and intensity.
Why all players on court are defenders
Defensive pressure should build from all players on the court, not just the designated defenders. Through-court defense involves all players working together to thrive as a team.
