netball
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈɛtbɔːl/
US
- /ˈnɛtˌbɔl/noun
Description
- A team sport
- similar to basketball
- played by passing
- no dribbling
Imagine basketball, but without the bouncing. That's netball, a fast-paced team sport that is very popular in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Two teams of seven players try to score by shooting a ball through a hoop, but unlike in basketball, players cannot dribble the ball. Instead, they pass it around the court and work together to create a chance to shoot. Each player can move only in certain parts of the court, which gives the game its own style and strategy. If you want a sport that is all about teamwork, quick movement, and accurate passing, this game might be for you.
Netball is a team ball sport played by two teams of seven players. It began in England in the late 19th century as a game related to early basketball, and it is now widely played, especially in Commonwealth countries. One of the main differences from basketball is that players do not dribble to move the ball down the court. They move it by passing to teammates, which makes teamwork and smart positioning very important.
The court is divided into three sections: the goal third, the centre third, and the defending third. Each player has a set position and can move only in certain areas of the court. Positions such as Goal Shooter (GS), Goal Attack (GA), Wing Attack (WA), Centre (C), Wing Defence (WD), Goal Defence (GD), and Goal Keeper (GK) each have their own job in attack or defence.
A game usually has four quarters, and the team with the most goals at the end wins. The sport is often linked with fitness, discipline, and sportsmanship, and it is also a big part of school and club life in many places. You might hear commentators talk about quick passing, sharp movement, or strong defence during a match. Although it is not as well known everywhere as basketball, it has a clear identity of its own and is enjoyed by many players and fans around the world.
Examples
- 1
School sport
My sister plays netball after school on Wednesdays.
- 2
Local team
She joined the local netball team last year.
- 3
Match cancellation
The netball match was cancelled because the court was too wet.
- 4
Regional popularity
Netball is especially popular in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- netballnoun