GSNC - What is Netball

Although netball is unfamiliar to most Americans, the sport began in the United States in 1895 as a women's version of basketball. Netball caught on in Britain then eventually gravitated to British colonies, including the West Indies and subsequently around the world, where it has maintained its popularity.

In a game of netball, teams of seven players pass the ball (which resembles a volleyball) to their goal shooter or goal attack, which are the only players that can make a basket. No dribbling or running with the ball is allowed and players are confined to particular thirds of the court depending on the positions they play. Scoring requires more dexterity and precision than in basketball, in part because there is no backboard to assist a shot into the basket and a netball basket pole stands approximately 10 foot high. Opponents can get possession of the ball by intercepting a pass or rebounding it from a missed shot.

Netball for many individuals, is not just a sport, it's a passion. For numerous women around the world it is an empowering sport, a chance to be active and the opportunity to play with a team. Over 70 countries are playing netball worldwide. Many schools throughout the world have netball as part of their physical education curriculum and teaches children important skills including ball work, communication and teamwork just to name a few.

Netball is gaining steady momentum in the USA. Not too long ago the USA was ranked 46th in the world, thanks to an outstanding effort by the USA team (and numerous volunteers and sponsors), at the 2003 World Championships held in Jamaica, USA was ranked 9th in the World. Currently netball is not an Olympic sport, however, players around the world are campaigning to ensure that netball gets a fair advantage and is included. Watch a Video....

To learn more about Netball visit:

http://www.netball.org/ - International Federation of Netball Association

http://www.usanetball.com/ - United States of America Netball Association

More information...