Netball Passing Drills

How many times has your team lost possession because of poor passing? The answer is, probably too many!

Passing is one of the most important aspects of the game of netball. So, what are the different types of passes that every netball player should master?

The 3 passes players should aim to develop in these drills are:

• Chest pass
• Shoulder pass
• Bounce pass

So, how can we develop players' passing skills in a fun and exciting way?

One of my favourite games for practicing quick and direct passing is the passing train! Start by splitting your players into group of 8 or more. This drill uses two balls - starting with player 1 and player 3.

The players pass the ball straight across to the player opposite them. These players will then pass the ball diagonally, working the ball down the line. After players have received and passed the two balls, they run to the end of the group, ready to receive a pass.

The group aim to work the ball from one end of the hall down to the other end, keeping their passes short, sharp, and accurate. 

In larger sessions, split your players into two groups, racing each other to the other end of the hall.

Alternatively, if you have a group of more experienced players, you may want to develop passing in a more competitive environment. 

Split your players into groups of 6, with 3 attackers and 3 defenders, and set up the drill as shown below. 

Players should be positioned with 1 attacker and 1 defender in each of the areas, with one spare area. Attacking players must pass the ball, choosing either a chest pass or a shoulder pass and then move to the free space. In this drill, only one attacker is allowed in each space, and defenders must always stay in their own area - only sidestepping to apply small amounts of pressure. 

This drill is a great way to develop decision making skills on court. The players must complete 8 passes to score a point and focus on the decision-making aspect of using the correct pass for the situation.

To progress this drill, add in a condition that attackers must now receive the ball when ball side, or increase the pressure put on by defenders. 

Passing can be a difficult skill to practice in a competitive and exciting way - comment your favourite ways to develop your players passing skills in the comments below!