We all know how much fun it is to play netball in Kingston and elsewhere around the UK – it’s a brilliant game that teaches you all about hand to eye coordination, being a team player, tactical thinking and a whole lot more… which is why so many people of all ilks love to head out onto the netball court again and again.
But what if you want to elevate your game this year and take it to the next level? No doubt there are countless of you out there who are perfectly happy just bouncing the ball around the court (no footwork, though!) and having fun on a social level… but if you’re keen to be the best you can be and perhaps even play professionally one day, you’ve got to focus and really work on those netball skills. Here are a few top tips that might help.
Communication is key
Never forget that netball is a team game and in order to be as successful as you can, you need to work on your communication skills. You’ve got to work with the other players on the team and keep on talking to them to boost not only your game but theirs as well.
Practice against a wall
If you’re struggling to get all your teammates together but know you need to practice, head outside and find yourself a convenient brick wall somewhere. Make a few marks on the wall and then spend some time trying to improve the accuracy of your throwing.
Time trials
Again, something you can do by yourself if you want to be able to zip around that court quicker than you do right now. Set up some markers about 20m apart and then time how long it takes you to sprint between the two. Do this regularly and watch as your personal best improves week after week.
Watch professional matches
A brilliant way to up your game is to head out to watch some professional matches so you can see how the game is played on a bigger stage. You’re sure to pick up a few new ideas and come away with lots of potential new skills to practice.
Prioritise decision-making drills
You’ve got to be able to think clearly and think quickly when on the netball court, so you can make better decisions – which will result in fewer intercepted passes and greater possession for your team.
Build your fitness
While you might be amazing at passing the ball and brilliant at shooting it into the net, if your fitness isn’t up to scratch you’ll find yourself getting left behind in the opposition’s dust. Hit the gym a bit more and build up your cardio so you can be the one dashing about, hard to catch, in your next netball match.
Want to find out more about netball in the UK? Check out this article on the Guardian website.