The two defenders are covering the space inside the circle - and a bit like piggy in the middle they are trying to win back the ball.
As one defender moves towards the player with the ball and tries to prevent one pass, the other defender attempts to cover the space for the other pass.
Players need to constantly be communicating to ensure they know who is doing what .
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.