Westlakes Netball Association hosted a Net Set Go session for young players at its Wangi Wangi courts on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Net Set Go is a fun and interactive program designed to introduce children aged from 5 to 10 years to the fundamental skills of netball.
Saturday’s Net Set Go program was facilitated by Jayde Sullivan and Sami Shiels.
The session began with the pint-sized athletes going through some basic warm-ups, such as side steps, butt kicks, and the old favourite in netball circles, the grape vine.
The warm-up wasn’t all netball drills, though, with games such as ‘What’s the Time Mr Wolf?’ and ‘Cat and Mouse’ also adding to the fun.
Net Set Go is a great way for young children to get some insight into netball in a safe, fun and supportive environment. The mentors are players themselves, often having played from a young age, and they enjoy the opportunity to pass on their love of the game to others.
To a five year old, the netball ring might seem like a giant with its head in the clouds, so the Net Set Go program uses 2.4 metre (8-foot) rings rather than the regulation 3.05 metres (10-foot).
Other games modifications, such as a smaller ball, shorter quarters and the ability to wait up to 5 seconds before passing the ball, mean these young players can concentrate on other skills such as passing, defending and goal shooting.
Net Set Go is also a great opportunity for families to come together and support their children in their first introduction to team sports.
Concentrating on the basics, many of the family members on the sideline also learn about the rules of the game and what it takes to be a netball player.