Netball · Passing · Decision-making

Quick hands under pressure

Three attackers move the ball fast against two defenders, catching and releasing before the defence can set.

CWAWDcwa
Start / 5
Time
12 min
Players
5–10
Age
U10+
Area
Centre third
Equipment
2 netballs2 bibs

Setup

  1. Three attackers (C, WA, WD) against two defenders (c, wa) in the centre third.
  2. C starts with the ball; c defends the ball at 0.9 m, wa marks WA.

How it runs

  1. Attackers keep the ball, aiming to pass within 1 second of landing.
  2. The free attacker gets the ball; the passer re-offers straight away.
  3. Defenders score for an intercept, a held ball over 3 seconds or a footwork call.
  4. Play 60-second rounds; count passes in a row, then rotate.

Coaching points

  • Hands up and ready before the ball arrives; catch and release in one movement.
  • Look at the next option while the ball is in the air.
  • Pass to the free player, not the one you passed to last.
  • Re-offer into space after every pass, at a new angle.

Common mistakes

  • Bringing the ball down to the waist before passing.
  • Rushing a pass straight at the defender's hands.
  • Passing and standing still.

Say it: “Ready hands, catch and gone.”

Make it harder

  • Shrink the area to half the centre third.
  • Add a third defender to make it 3v3.

Make it easier

  • One defender only (3v1).
  • Allow the full 3 seconds.

Pairs well with

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.