HOME Netball Answers Netball COACHING Q&A

Is it against the rules for defenders to hold each other...

is against the rules if two goal defenders hold each other from falling forward if they defend

Marina Coach, South Africa

2 answers

ANSWERS

Lee-annes NetballCoach, Australia

no it isnt. it even went as far as one lifting the other up in some of the professional games in aus.

its actually a really good technique as it allows the defence to lean further, however, in saying that, it also means you are basically using 2 players to defend one, and therefore frees up the other person to get in better positions for rebounds and passes.

Janet Coach, Australia

Definitely no rule against assisting your defender but as a former defender I would prefer my team mate to be watching her player and position for rebounds rather than holding on to me while I tried to lean further in. The reach up and over the ball needs to be balanced and dynamic with no restrictions. Try going for the quick upward burst to tip the shot with someone hanging on to you.

JOIN SPORTPLAN FOR FREE

search our library of 700+ netball drills
create your own professional coaching plans
or access our tried and tested plans

Netball

STAY CONNECTED

in more ways than one

sportplan_netball

LATEST COACHING TRENDS

Wing Attack Masterclass: Creating Space in the Attacking Third

The Wing Attack is the critical link between midcourt possession and circle feeding. This masterclass breaks down the movement patterns, timing, and spatial awareness that separate elite WAs from the rest, with practical drills to develop these skills at every level.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching

Footwork Fundamentals: Landing, Pivoting and the Stepping Rule

Footwork is the foundation of every skill in netball. This guide provides a clear explanation of the stepping rule, the mechanics of one-foot and two-foot landings, pivoting technique, and progressive drills to build footwork confidence from junior level upward.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching