should the GK stay behind the GS or in front

Sherie PointonCoach, New Zealand

I subscrie to T-marking and fast feet "theory". That is the GK standing on the side of the GS and moving to the ball side either crossing in front of or behind the player. This enables intercepts and tips (using the outside arm) but also closes down the space options for the GS particularly if they are a holding shooter.

Janet Coach, Australia

Defending is more about continually adjusting your position to what the attacker is doing and to achieve the outcome you want. My preferences are that if GS is on outer edge, GK to block from behind to keep her there & if block is broken or GS is not on edge then keep mobile and defend from side on (T marking with outside arm ready) thereby protecting space/delaying movement towards goals. Constantly adjusting position to see ball, player and as much court area as possible gives best opportunity to anticipate, react & hopefully intercept.

Sue-Ann Coach, New Zealand

My personal coaching is for the GK to start in front however I make sure the GK can use the T marking concept for when necessary. I have more intercept success if they start in front but are prepared to change if necessary.

Lee-annes NetballCoach, Australia

it all depends on age and ability (more ability than age). also the height of the GS vs the GK. if you have a really tall GS then defending from in front and even from the side can almost be pointless, as the pass will always be out of reach, best to try and make them shoot from as far away from the goal as poss so behind is best, but if the GK is very much taller then in front will make for relatively easy intercepts. even height, then to the side makes for a fair contest. but if the GK cant mark from the side then in front is where i start my players defence skills from.