Your first netball game day can feel a bit overwhelming. There are bibs, umpires, scoreboards, and plenty going on around the courts. But once you know the routine, it all makes sense pretty quickly.
Here is what a typical Saturday game day looks like at Warrandyte Netball Club.
Before the Game
Arrival
Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes before your game time. This gives players time to:
- Find their court
- Put on their positional bib
- Warm up with their team
- Check in with the coach about positions for the first quarter
Games are played at the Manningham Templestowe Leisure Centre in Templestowe. If it is your first time, allow a few extra minutes to find your way around.
Warm-Up
The coach will run a short warm-up before the game. This usually includes some passing drills, movement exercises, and a quick team talk about the game plan. Players should be ready to go when warm-up starts.
During the Game
Quarters
Games are split into quarters with breaks in between. The length depends on the age group:
- 9U to 15U: 10 minutes per quarter
- 17U: 10 or 12 minutes per quarter
- 21U / Open: 12 minutes per quarter
There is a short break between quarters and a longer break at half time.
Positions and Rotation
Each player wears a positional bib that shows which position they are playing. Coaches rotate players through different positions across quarters, especially in junior age groups. This helps everyone develop a range of skills and find the position that suits them best.
Don’t worry if you are put in a position you haven’t played before. It is all part of learning. See our netball positions guide for a rundown of what each position does.
Rolling Substitutions
Manningham Netball Association uses rolling substitutions, which means players can be swapped on and off during play (not just at quarter breaks). The coach will manage this from the bench.
Scoring and Umpires
Two umpires control the game, one for each half of the court. A scorer at the bench keeps track of goals. Parents are sometimes rostered on to help with scoring. If you are asked to score, don’t panic. Someone will show you what to do.
After the Game
After the final whistle, both teams line up and shake hands. The coach will usually have a quick team huddle to talk about what went well and what to work on at training.
Tips for Parents
- Pack snacks and water: For you and the player
- Sunscreen and a hat: Saturday games are on outdoor courts with limited shade. Tuesday evening social games are played indoors
- Stay positive: Cheer for effort, not just goals. Junior netball is about development
- Let the coach coach: It is tempting to call out instructions from the sideline, but players respond better to one voice during the game
Duty roster: Most clubs run a duty roster where each team takes turns helping with setup, scoring, or packing up. Your team manager will let you know when it is your turn.
What If It Rains?
Netball is played in most weather. Games are rarely cancelled for rain alone. If conditions are dangerous (lightning, severe storms, extreme heat), the association will make a call and your team manager will pass on the message. When in doubt, assume the game is on and check with your team manager.
Ready to Get Started?
If you haven’t already, check out what to wear, see our teams and age groups, or brush up on the rules.