HOME Netball Answers Netball COACHING Q&A

how to play a game with only 6 players

We have lost a player due to injury and now have only 6. Any tips on best way to train and play with only 6 players

Narelle CooperCoach, Australia

1 answer

ANSWERS

Graeme PulhamReferee, New Zealand

Hi Narelle, generally when in this situation I drop out WD. The C covers WA at centre pass. One training game is to do half court with 2 C 2 GA 2 WA and no GS. This way you can still work on your attack and defence. The GA`s WA`s and C`s are paired up in one half and practice set moves from there.

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

Split Circle Defence: Zoning the Goal Circle to Trap Attacks

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.

June 2026

Sportplan Coaching

The 10-Minute Pre-Game Mental Routine for Shooters

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.

June 2026

Sportplan Coaching

Goal Defence Intercepting: Driving Into the Ball, Not Chasing the Player

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.

May 2026

Sportplan Coaching

VIEW ALL COACHING TRENDS