How to Play Center in Netball

Last Updated: December 16, 2023

Playing center in netball is a crucial role in helping the team get the ball to where it's needed. It's a physically demanding role (although so are most roles in netball) and you'll need to stay well aware at all times.

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It includes giving that center pass at the beginning of the match, continuously running up and down the court, pulling the team together and supporting shooters in the defender (D). It also involves a great deal more, as you'll discover upon playing.
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2
Deliver the ball to the shooters. You need to drive down the court and make space to receive the ball.
- As soon as the umpire blows the whistle and it's your centre pass, the wing attack (WA) should drive square, a ready option.
- When WA receives the ball, goal attack (GA) should cut back down court, but C should drive across, to make a down-the-line option.
- Once C receives the ball, GA/GS (goal shooter) should make themselves available, with one of them catching the ball and the other positioning themselves under the hoop, ready for the ball and ready to shoot.
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3
Outsmart your defender and get into space. Fake/dodge or some kind of movement to get past your defender (in front of them).
- Run quickly into space for your teammate to pass to you.
- Be in a space that your teammate can pass to you without error, without the other team intercepting the ball.
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You and your team need to confirm who is cutting forward and sliding back so you can sharply get that ball to the D.

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How do I dodge defenders?

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Keep moving. If you're being blocked, feint left and go right, or the other way around.

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What can I do to open up space around me?

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The simple answer is to run into space. You should be quick on your feet, and as soon as you see an opening, run into space and call for the ball.

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How can I become a center if I currently play a position I am not good at?

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Practice playing in your desired position and impress your coach with your skills. Also talk to your coach/team leader. Tell them that you struggle in your current position and that you would like to try playing center. Don't insist, but try to win them over. The better you get, the more convinced your coach will be.

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Get fit! Being fit is one of the most important aspects of being a good netball player.

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Be confident! It is one thing to say that you're confident but it is completely different to be it. A coach doesn't like a wimpy player and doesn't like a cocky one either so get that balance right.

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Negative thoughts and feelings don't help anyone including your team, so don't result in acting like a poor loser or taking your ball home if you didn't get that shot. It's all about being gracious.

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