What are the key points to remember when intercepting?

Netball CoachCoach

Position yourself so you can drive hard to cut off an incoming pass.

 The element of surprise that such defence brings is a strength. Attackers become uncertain, which can increase their error rate.

Watch the player and the ball closely as they travel down court. Judge the speed of the ball and the distance it is travelling.

when intervepting...

1. decide when to go

2. "explode" out

3. full extend and reach for the ball

4. pull ball in

hope this helps x

Janet Coach, Australia

I agree with Katie that the element of suprise and a hard drive at the ball are key factors in securing an intercept and/or causing attack error. A few additional points are - playing off the attacker encourages the pass and judging ball speed/flight gives indication of timing the drive to intercept - ideally two hands fully extended for a catch but if this is not possible flick ball in front to retrieve or flick onto team mate - if defender coming around close to attacker use outside hand to tip/flick ball to avoid contact particularly in goal circle.

Lee-annes NetballCoach, Australia

i agree with the points from above, but for a full intercept, not just a tip, if the player is coming from behind then getting the closest shoulder in front without pushing through the player is important.  otherwise getting feet in front and using outside arm is the only way.  watching where the ball is coming down the court, and seeing the basic passing pattern gives a good defence player knowledge of when its best to pounce.  intercepting is all about instincts, and going for it.  too many defence players, only defend half heartedly.  arms not extended, no lift, no full extention.  teach them to give it everything, and the ball will be theirs more than not.  but also teaching them, to know when to hold back is important to and take the next pass rather than the one their player is going to.