Use this plan to work on the core netball defending skills, with a focus on man-marking - getting players to work on their defensive stance; keeping their knees bent, arms up and body open so they can keep an eye on their player and the game at the same time!
Why is defence important?
Offence sells tickets; Defence wins championships
A solid defence that works well as unit should not be underestimated, the fewer goals your opponents score means the fewer goals your team will need to score to win the game.
What's in the Session?
This session with a game of Cone Touch, getting your defenders use fast footwork to shadow the attacker and get your defenders working using their peripheral vision. After this we then continue to develop in defence, gradually moving towards higher pressure scenarios, working on interceptions and finishing with a couple of defending in pairs games!
in more ways than one
sportplan_netball
in more ways than one
sportplan_netball
Split circle defence is the system the top three NSL teams have built their identity around in 2026. The Goal Keeper and Goal Defence divide the circle into zones, switch in synchrony, and make every passing option look risky. Here is how to coach it.
Most netball shooters know how to shoot. The difference at the top is who can shoot when it counts. A structured 10-minute pre-game mental routine is the most under-used performance tool in club netball - and it is the simplest to teach.
The best Goal Defences in the 2026 NSL season are intercepting more than ever. The reason is not raw athleticism. It is a deliberate shift from chasing the attacker to driving into the flight path of the ball. Here is how to coach it.
