Players in four corners (with at least 2 players in each corner) Two balls, starting opposite each other. First 2 players run into middle to recieve ball from the right and return to thrower Move around each other to drive back to the line in which they started, recieiving a pass ahead as they go. They pass the ball onto the front of their line. The previous throwers now become the workers driving into the middle. Progressions: smaller space/larger space speed it up take the ball from the other side give the team a target, penalising any dropped balls
Players need to be communicating with their partner to ensure they're driving at the same time but into different space. Feeders need to be sending sharp, flat ball ahead and into safe space (to avoid collision with other players) Feet under body driving onto catch ball, then quick turning and a further drive Brains switched on! I often use this drill at the end of a netball fitness session; the girls are tired, but need to maintain focus and ball handling skills to be able to complete a target number of passes. This replicates the feeling of that final quarter! Thanks to Team Surrey (University of Surrey, Guildford UK) for demonstrating this drill at the end of a 7am fitness session; 50 passes in each direction, no dropped balls!
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
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.
