You might have seen a netball game before, and you must have wondered what roles players in different positions in a netball team perform. Their positions are represented by alphabets printed on the bibs. The different positions in a team are goal attack, goal shooter, wing attack, centre, wing defence, goalkeeper, and goal defence. Let us now look at the individual roles according to the positions.
Goal Attack
This player has the role of dribbling the ball past the defence of the opponent team in a lightning speed and scoring goals. This is the player who is supposed to feed the ball to the goal shooter. The goal attack and the goal shooter work in tandem, and often the best mutual understanding in a netball team can be seen between these two roles. A goal attack operates in the opponent's third of the goal, the centre third, and the goal circle. They are usually tall and have accurate passing and shooting skills.
Goal Shooter
The goal shooter is the main goal scorer in any netball team. This player can only score a goal by taking accurate shots at the goalpost from within the opponent’s goal circle. A goal scored from beyond the goal circle is not considered legit. The goal shooter is entrusted with the responsibility of taking several shots during the game and often decides the fate of the game. They usually operate in the goal third of the opponent and is one of the tallest players, having strong shooting abilities and steady hands.
Centre
The centre serves the vital role of being the link between attack and defence. Every time there is a goal, the centre has to start the game from the centre circle. They take control of the tempo of the game and ramp it up as and when required while being instrumental to create space for other players. They need to supply the ball to the offensive players and also trackback to defend, as needed. They normally operate anywhere but within the goal circles. These players need to have a strong presence of mind, ability to read the game, and passing skills coupled with impeccable control over the ball.
Wing Attack
The role of a wing attack in a netball team is to collect the ball from the centre, move it to the opponent’s goal third, and feed it to the GA and GS. They are supposed to enhance the scoring chances for the team. They operate in the centre third and goal third. The wing attack is usually the fastest player in the team, has great control, and accurate passing abilities.
Goal Defence
In a netball team, the goal defence’s job is to stop the ball from reaching the shooters in the opponent team. They have to constantly stand in guard against the opponent team’s attacking players and make key interceptions and blocks. Goal defence players stay within their team’s goal third, but not the goal circle. They should have prompt reflexes and great focus.
Wing Defence
This is another defensive position where the player has to mark the opponent team's wing attack. They aim to keep the ball away from their goal circle. Because of this, they must make key interceptions and come in between the ball and the player of the opponent. Their area of play is their team's goal and centre third.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper in a netball team stands guard in front of the goal circle and tries to block shots from the opponent shooters. The Goal Defence and Goalkeeper often work together united by the common goal to keep ball far from the goal post while being an obstacle in the way of the goal attack and shooter attempting to invade into the goal circle. They always have to be tall and alert.
Now you know about the different positions in a team of netball players and what roles they play in a game. This will allow you to better enjoy your next netball game.