Feeder, 2 attackers, 3 defenders.
Feeder starts play from the Centre Circle. The attacker runs forward off the third line into the middle third to receive the ball, marked by a defender. They then pass a lateral ball to the feeder who has moved out to the side, where there is another defender acting as a 3ft mark.
The attacker runs into a space in the end third to receive the ball back. When they have received the ball again they pass to an attacker in the circle, who is also marked. The defender in the circle (GK) can help the other defender if they get shut out. However if both defenders get drawn to the attacker then the feeder can pass straight to the GS in the circle.
If the Defender over-commits to a run then the GK can call to cover the Attacker.
D1 is aiming to dictate the Attacker either narrow or wide.
If
Or
Make sure they contest every pass and recover. If they miss an intercept they should get their feet back to 3ft distance and arms up immediately
They need to keep on their toes for agility
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
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.