For the first time in UK netball, coaches have a tactical time out at their disposal. The 2025 NSL season introduces a 90-second time out that can be called by any player on court after a goal is scored. One per team, per game. Use it wisely.
This innovation, borrowed from the WNBA model, fundamentally changes how coaches can influence matches. No longer are you helpless when momentum shifts against you. The question is: when and how do you use it?
When to Call a Time Out
You only get one. This makes timing critical. The obvious triggers:
Momentum Shift
Your opponent has scored 4 straight goals. Your players are rattled. The crowd is against you. This is the classic time out moment - breaking the opposition's rhythm and giving your team a chance to breathe.
Tactical Adjustment
You've identified something in the opposition's setup that you can exploit, but your players haven't spotted it. The time out gives you 90 seconds to explain the adjustment and ensure everyone understands.
Physical Recovery
Late in a tight game, your players are exhausted. Ninety seconds of rest can be the difference between sharp execution and tired mistakes. Sometimes the tactical content is less important than the physical break.
Pre-Power 5
With the Super Shot rule now in play, the final five minutes of each quarter carry extra weight. Calling a time out just before Power 5 begins allows you to set specific tactics for this crucial period.
When NOT to Call It
Equally important is knowing when to hold your time out:
- Don't call it in the first quarter unless absolutely necessary - you may need it more later
- Don't call it when you're winning comfortably - save it for when things tighten
- Don't call it immediately after conceding - sometimes players need to play through adversity
- Don't call it if you have nothing specific to say - wasting 90 seconds on "try harder" achieves nothing
The 90-Second Structure
Ninety seconds sounds like plenty of time. It isn't. You need a structure:
First 20 seconds: Settle
Players arrive at the huddle physically and emotionally charged. Let them drink water, take a breath, and compose themselves. Trying to talk over adrenaline is pointless.
Next 40 seconds: Message
Deliver your key points. Maximum three things. More than that and players won't retain it. Be specific and actionable: "Their WD is cheating inside - use the space on the circle edge" not "we need to attack better."
Next 20 seconds: Confirm
Check understanding. Ask one or two players to repeat the key points. This isn't patronising - it's ensuring the message has landed.
Final 10 seconds: Energy
Send them back with purpose. A word of encouragement, a reminder of what they're capable of, hands in for a team call. They should leave the huddle sharper than they arrived.
Preparation is Everything
The worst time outs happen when coaches wing it. The best time outs are prepared in advance. Before every game, identify potential scenarios and what you would say:
- If we're struggling against their zone defence...
- If our shooters are missing...
- If we can't get the ball to the circle...
- If we're conceding on their centre pass...
Having these talking points ready means you spend the time out delivering the message, not figuring out what the message should be.
Training for Time Outs
Include time out practice in training. Stop scrimmages randomly, call the team together, deliver a 90-second message, then resume. This normalises the process and helps players understand what to expect.
Practice the physical aspects too. Where do players stand? Who brings the water? How quickly can they get from the court to the huddle? These logistics matter when seconds count.
Player-Called Time Outs
The rule states that any player on court can call the time out, not just the coach. This creates interesting possibilities. A captain who recognises a problem can call the break without waiting for coach direction.
Discuss with your leadership group when they have permission to call a time out independently. Clear guidelines prevent confusion in the heat of the moment.
The Psychological Weapon
Sometimes the value of a time out is purely psychological. Calling one when your opponent is flying sends a message: we're not rattled, we're adapting. The opposition knows you're making adjustments. That uncertainty can disrupt their momentum even before your tactical changes take effect.
Looking Ahead
Tactical time outs add a new dimension to netball coaching. The teams that master this tool - knowing when to use it, what to say, and how to structure those 90 seconds - will have an edge. Start practicing now.
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