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JOIN NOWDefender - hands and elbows.
Any help is much appreciated in advance. How do I stop a defender using her elbows and hands when defending. We've tried holding the skirt but once she gets into the game out come the elbows and the hands. She is really a great defender apart from this which is causing way too many penalties
Hillary EptonCoach, Australia
TOP ANSWER
Lee-annes NetballCoach, Australia
if she is trying to do it properly in training but completely gets caught up in the game and forgets to do it, then constantly reminding her will help. but if you want to take it one step further and take her to see the umpires before the game and explain to them what she is doing and can they keep an eye out, then she might be more mindful during the game knowing the umpires are watching, and is more likely to be pulled up for it too.
hope that helps.
ANSWERS
Amy HolleyCoach, Australia
I would have her work with a static attacker first - maybe just some footwork drills to get her to come around the body. Get her used to the sensation of defending without worrying about movement or a ball. Try to break it down into steps and get her working through the progression step by step.
The skirt holding has it's place, for sure, so I would practice that during half-court games at training, and really emphasise that to her. Every time she lets go of her skirt, say "*name*, skirt!" to remind her to keep holding onto that skirt. And be on her case about it on a Saturday also.
Lee-annes NetballCoach, Australia
if she is trying to do it properly in training but completely gets caught up in the game and forgets to do it, then constantly reminding her will help. but if you want to take it one step further and take her to see the umpires before the game and explain to them what she is doing and can they keep an eye out, then she might be more mindful during the game knowing the umpires are watching, and is more likely to be pulled up for it too.
hope that helps.
Hillary EptonCoach, Australia
thanks everyone. I'll up the 1-1 training. The umpire is a regular and has been wonderful in trying to help her - even giving tips. I think it's time for some behaviour modification as you suggest. She's a fantastic defender and reads the play well - it's just the elbows and hands that let her down.
