Where can they go?
They are allowed to move in the centre and attacking third including the circle.
What do they do?
They mark the opposition's goal defence.
They have to be good passers and long range shooters.
Their role is to work with the WA to get the first centre pass, if not then assist in feeding the ball to the Goal shooter so they can shoot from close range as well as taking shots from long range.
If not taking the shot, get into a good position to win the rebound if the GS misses.
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.