Netball Clashes

Final whistle for 2011 Clashes

Netty — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 06:46:00 GMT

We’ve come to the end of another fabulous FNB Netball Classic Clashes season and we once again say thank you to FNB for this great initiative. The Clashes don’t just happen, a lot of organisation and effort by schools, teachers, coaches, Bernice Samuels and team FNB as well as the ASEM team, in particular Jana Arlow, goes into making these events so successful. We salute you all. Congratulations to all netballers and coaches for playing quality netball in a wonderful spirit.

Whatsup in 2012?

Next year promises to be another exciting season for FNB Netball Classic Clashes with some exciting news!

Two Players of the Match will be selected at the clashes and each will receive a copy of ‘A Century of Netball’ by Rita Oosthuizen, past president Netball South Africa. This is a fabulous book written by one of our netball legends who dedicated her life to this game of netball.

A brief look at the content of ‘A Century of Netball’

History of the game of netball

History of the game of netball in South Africa

SA international teams/events and delegations

Awards: member awards, player awards, meritorious awards, long life service

Netball pioneers and promoters (photos)

SA national Kay Meyer touring teams

SA high schools, SA universities, SA primary schools

Souvenirs and achievers

The first 50 years of netball in SA

About the author

This book is a reminder of so many of our past legends who worked tirelessly (without payment) at promoting and establishing a strong foundation for netball in South Africa. Without the dedication of these women, netball would never have survived and we salute them all.

Good luck with all your year end exams and remember to stay fit in the off season.

Until next time

Pass it on, Netty

Netball after school - Stay and play

Netty — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:49:00 GMT

Not only have we reached the end of the fabulous 2011 FNB Netball Classic Clashes, many of you have reached the end of your schooling career. Now what happens to your netball?

Those of you planning to study at University or College should find structured and well organised netball setups; make sure that you join the club.

If you are planning to start a career you will need to find a netball club near you. It’s not easy juggling between a job, maybe distance learning and playing netball, but you can do it!

Finding a netball club

Post school netballers are drawn to good organisation and want to be part of a structured netball programme so make sure that you find a club that is well run.

Facebook, Twitter and other social media is a great platform to start from should you find yourself in a new area. I spotted folk looking for netball clubs, as well as clubs ‘advertising’ for players on Gumtree.

Netball South Africa is another great starting point. Visit http://www.netball-sa.co.za/ for details.

Starting a club

If all else fails speak to Netball South Africa on how to start your own club!

And if that’s not possible, try getting a community netball club going, where you can make a difference in young girls lives. I came across a manual giving high level guidelines on how to start a community sports club, http://www.toolkitsportdevelopment.org/html/

Whatever you do, don’t give up on the great game of netball.

I met up with some of the ‘Golden Girls’ of netball South Africa, now in their 70s and 80s, at the SPAR National Championships during August, all looking fabulous and very young at heart. That’s what netball can do for you! So keep playing. It’s better than any anti-wrinkle product out there!

Until next time

Pass it on, Netty

The Clash of the ‘Flower Girls’

Netty — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:36:00 GMT

Hoër Meisieskool Bloemhof vs Hoër Meisieskool Oranje

What a netball Clash we had on 20 August 2011 in the beautiful town of Stellenbosch when Bloemhof hosted Oranje!

Why the ‘flower girls’?

Oranje is situated in Bloemfontein, often referred to as the city of roses and Bloemhof, from its early history has been referred to as ‘Bloementuintjie (Dutch for flower garden).

The FNB Netball Clash between these two schools was of the highest standard and I was most impressed with both teams, their style of netball, will to win, but mostly the wonderful spirit in which they conducted themselves.

It was goal for goal throughout the match. At half time the score was 15 all and at the end of the third quarter Bloemhof was leading 22 vs Oranje 19. At the end of the final quarter it was Bloemhof 27 vs Oranje 25. What a clash!

I spotted amazing netball talent in both teams and I think every player needs a mention, so congratulations and well played to the following netballers:

Bloemhof:

Mariska Smit, Anriëtte Smit, Rio Lombaard, Alison Scorgie, Cari Swart, Rize-Mari Hugo, Loré Botha, Carin-Marie Engelbrecht, Chrismari Prinsloo and Elizma Freedman.

Oranje:

Alani van Schalkwyk, Christie Gerber, Leresia du Toit, Audrey King, Danell van der Merwe, Loane van Sandwyk, Lucille Makaum, Rozelle Botes and Sonette Swanepoel.

Bloemhof Centre - a supporters’ dream venue

It was so fabulous to see so many supporters at this netball clash. I put it down to the great Bloemhof Centre which allows for so much seating and standing space and it brings me back to my old gripe of why so many schools don’t have seating facilities at our netball fields. Let’s do it, let’s seat them!

The Paul Roos Gimnasium vs Grey College FNB Rugby Clash was another nail biter with the most amazing ‘gees’ ever. Congratulations to all involved.

After the rugby clash I attended a function in honour of retiring Grey College headmaster, Johan Volsteedt. Though I only met Johan Volsteedt briefly and listened to all his accolades mentioned, I have to say: What a man and how fortunate we are to have the Volsteedts of this world teaching our young people!

My life skill learned from this fabulous day comes from Johan Volsteedt’s belief that: ‘If you continually have to tell people that you are a leader, then you are just not a leader.’ This shows on and off the netball field, the leader sets the tone by the way he/she behaves, walks, talks or plays!

Thank you to FNB, Jana Arlow and team, Paul Roos Gimnasium, Grey College, Bloemhof and Oranje Schools for a day to remember.

We are approaching the end of the FNB Netball Classic Clashes and look forward to 2012 and this amazing initiative sponsored by FNB.

Until next time

Pass it on, Netty

August blog 1

Netty — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:45:00 GMT

A whale of a clash in Hermanus

I packed up my husband and dog and set off on the most scenic route via Gordon’s Bay to Hermanus for the FNB Netball Clash between Hermanus and Hawston on 6 August 2011.

It was a busy time in Hermanus with the Kalfiefees and long weekend, and I was amazed to see the huge turnout to the Clashes, from mayor to grandparents! Seems like the entire community came to support. Congratulations to FNB Hermanus, Hermanus High, Hawston Secondary, parents, supporters and everyone else involved.

The netball clash kicked off and at the end of the first quarter Hermies were leading 6 vs Hawston 4. From then on Hermanus kept a steady lead throughout the clash and the final score was Hermanus 28 vs Hawston 19. I spotted some great talent in both teams and the game was played in a wonderful spirit.

The leader sets the tone

I witnessed Nicolette Botha-Guthrie, Executive Mayor Overstrand, get off her seat twice to pick up litter during the rugby clash in Hermanus and it again reminded me how important it is for the leader to set the tone, whether in business or in sport. It has been said that Overstrand is one of the best run municipalities in the country, I know see why. Viva Nicolette viva.

SPAR South African Netball Championships 2011

Another netball highlight for me was attending the SPAR SA Netball Championships at the Bellville Velodrome on Women’s Day 6 August 2011. I had the privilege of sitting with Elize Kotze, Gauteng North and Protea coach while she analysed opposition teams’ game and players on her Ipad. How things have changed with the use of technology!

Congratulations to Gauteng North who once again won the championships.

Meeting up with the ‘Golden Girls’ of netball South Africa made my day. At 70 and 80 years young these netball legends are absolutely amazing and it just shows how good netball is for body and mind!

Big Clash coming up

We look forward to the FNB Netball Clash between Bloemhof and Oranje on Saturday 20 August and will share some of the action in our next blog.

Until next time

Pass it on, Netty

July blog 2

Netty — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 09:35:00 GMT

Netty goes one on one with Elize Kotze

As promised I had the following interview with Elize Kotze, head coach, SPAR Protea Netball team.

Netty: What was your biggest moment/s at the recent World Netball Championships?

Elize: ‘The opening ceremony, bringing back fond memories! The last time I participated in the WNC opening ceremony was as a player, this time as coach of the team, I felt so proud.

My other huge moment was when South Africa was leading New Zeeland by one goal after the first quarter!’

Netty: What would be your next goal for the team?

Elize: ‘We need to participate regularly against the top four ranked teams (New Zeeland, Australia, England and Jamaica) to compare ourselves against the best and make South Africa proud of us. This will also help us evaluate our players in terms of physical and psychological toughness.

Our players need to take honour and pride in playing for South Africa.

Upcoming international matches:

3- 18 September 2011: All African Games 2011 in Malawi

South Africa will participate in these games, but unfortunately I will not be able to join the team due to prior commitments.

23 October 2011: Holden Netball Test Series in Australia

We will take on Malawi in a curtain raiser to Australia vs New Zeeland in Perth, Australia, and I am really looking forward to working with Norma Plummer, head coach Australia, during this period.

November 2011: Fast Net Series in Manchester

The top six teams in world netball have been invited to participate in the Fast Net series. This is a shortened format of the game of netball, a bit what Twenty20 is to cricket and 7s is to rugby. In Fast Net teams play six minutes per quarter with two minutes break, unlimited substitutions, no centre passes etc.

Professional league in 2012: Downunder

Most of the top ranked teams’ players participate in the professional netball league in New Zeeland and Australia and some of our Protea players are looking at joining this league. This exposure to top netball will be a great experience for our players.’

Netty: How important is school netball as stepping stone to senior netball?

Elize: ‘School netball is a hugely important bridge to senior netball, it is big and it is healthy! I do think, however, that there is too much emphasis on winning at all cost. Yes, we play to win, but coaches and teachers need to take stock of how much they push to win. Burnout and not having fun will result in many young netball players quitting before they reach their peak.

I also believe that we should only start awarding provincial colours to players under16 for the first time and not at primary school level. Often players with provincial colours at primary school level experience a feeling of complacency and that they have now made it! I think that holding back provincial colours would create more of a challenge to our young netballers.’

Netty: How come we lose so many netball players after school?

Elize: ‘We must relook our club strategy and encourage schools, parents and teachers to create and become involved in club netball. Most of universities and colleges have established sporting structures. The school netballer who chooses not to attend varsity or college after school is often lost to the game due to few or weak club structures. Here is a great opportunity for schools netball to work closely with Netball South Africa and get your clubs going!’

Netty: What qualities do you look for in a player, from GS to GK?

Elize: ‘Consistency, consistency, consistency! I have to know and believe that a player will approach and play each game with the same passion and dedication. I appreciate players who show integrity and loyalty and have a good work ethic.

Yes, a God-given talent is very important, but if a player does not have mental toughness, all that talent is wasted. Lastly a player needs to be coachable!’

Many thanks to Elize who took time out to chat to us, we do appreciate as always. your passion and generosity.

From all of us at FNB Netball Clashes, you go girl.

PS I think that we at FNB Classic Clashes are getting right! The Classic Clashes are played in great spirit, and yes, we play to win, but winning is not what Clashes are about, so give yourselves a huge pat on the back.

Until next time

Pass it on

Netty

July blog 1

Netty — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:58:00 GMT

World Netball Championships 2011 snippets:

Playing out of your shoes!

Wow, what fabulous netball and what a nailbiting final between New Zealand and Australia, going into extra time and Australia winning by one goal! Both Irene van Dyk (NZ GS) and Case Wiiliams (NZ GK) at one stage lost a shoe in this thriller of a game.

SPAR Proteas moving up the ranks

I was very proud of our SPAR Poteas team and their performance; in fact they were the only team to lead New Zealand by one goal in the first quarter! We have also moved from being ranked number 6 to number 5 in the world. Well done Elize Kotze and team.

Erin Burger: Proudly made at Waterkloof High

We are delighted and so proud of Erin Burger, centre for SPAR Proteas, who was voted ‘Player of the Tournament’ at WNC in Singapore. That is one amazing achievement, congratulations!

Erin matriculated from Waterkloof High in 2005 and like many of you she started playing netball at a young age. This is a reminder of what an important role schools netball play in producing the likes of Erin and many other great players.

Here’s to all teachers and coaches who play such a great role in the forming years of our netball players.

Players to watch

There are so many outstanding netball players in South Africa and the rest of our netball playing nations, but the following players stood out at the recent WNC, so try to follow and copy these top international players:

GS: Irene van Dyk (NZ): Caitlin Basset (Aus); Claudia Basson (SA)

GA: Maria Tutaia (NZ): Natalie Medhurst (Aus); Maryke Holtzhauzen (SA)

WA: Natalie von Bertouch (Aus); Bongiwe Msomi (SA)

C: Erin Burger (SA); Laura Langman (NZ)

WD: Julie Corletto (Aus); Zanele Mdodane

GD: Casey Williams (NZ); Leigh-Ann Zackey (SA)

GK: Laura Geitz (Aus); Amanda Mynhardt (SA)

Penalties a plenty

What has become of our non contact game? During the recent WNC we noticed over sixty penalties per match per team on many occasions. It starts with you, play hard, but keep the game clean.

Playing with your head

You can have all the skills and talent in the world, but if you cannot think on the court, it’s all useless. Watching some of the most talented and experienced players at WNC games ‘losing the plot’ was rather scary. Do not force the pass which isn’t on, play to the umpire, be aware of the time left on the clock and most of all keep your head!!

Upcoming FNB Classic Clashes

23 July 2011:

Hoërskool Hangklip vs Hoërskool Aliwal-Noord in Queenstown

Bloues vs Rooies in Kroonstad

30 July 2011:

Hoërskool Goudveld vs Welkom Gimnasium in Welkom

Pass it on

You would have noticed that I sign off the blog with ‘pass it on’. It’s a play on words, but mostly it’s about sharing and giving of your time and energy to this great game of netball. A very dear friend once told me that communication, all of life for that matter, is about passion and generosity (of your time).

Anyone who knows Elize Kotze, head coach SPAR Proteas will agree that Elize is about amazing passion and generosity. This you can see in the play and attitude of our SPAR Proteas, it rubs off as she passes it on to all people.

Netty goes one on one with Elize Kotze, head coach SPAR Proteas Netball in our next blog

Until next time

Pass it on

Netty

June blog 2

Netty — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:46:00 GMT

Countdown to World Netball Championships 2011

What a sendoff for our SPAR Proteas Netball team!

‘Tshwane, South Africa - President Jacob Zuma and Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula have assured the SPAR National Netball Team that they have the support of the nation when they leave on Tuesday for the World Netball Championships in Singapore. President Zuma invited the team and its managers to his official residence in Pretoria on Sunday afternoon to express his personal support for the team. After being introduced to each member of the team by Captain Amanda Mynhardt, Zuma described them as the most beautiful girls in South Africa, and welcomed them to Mahlamba Ndlopfu. ‘

(Source: www. Netball-sa.co.za)

Our SPAR Proteas will compete in Pool C together with Jamaica, Singapore and Botswana and our first game will be against Jamaica on Monday 4 July 2011.

Remember that Singapore is six hours ahead of South Africa, should you want to follow live updates on the championships.

You can follow the World Netball Championships action, fixtures and results via the following links:

http://www.wnc2011.com

http://www.netball-sa.co.za

Facebook.com/wnc2011

Wikipedia.org/wiki/wnc2011

Supersport will be broadcasting WNC games, but the fixtures and times were not available at end June, so make sure that you have a look at the Actions Attractions and watch the best netball ever.

Follow our Proteas on Facebook

You can also see what our team is getting up to in Singapore and place your messages of support for the team on the SPAR Proteas Facebook page.

Upcoming FNB Classic Clashes during July

23 July 2011: Hoërskool Hangklip vs Hoërskool Aliwal-Noord in Queenstown

23 July 2011: Bloues vs Rooies in Kroonstad

30 July 2011: Hoërskool Goudveld vs Welkom Gimnasium in Welkom

We look forward to great clashes and don’t forget to send us photos and updates on your teams.

Coaching tip

If you can touch a ball with your finger tips, you CAN catch it!

Magnificent Fridays

A reminder to wear your South African supporters gear and fly your SA flags high on Fridays as we countdown, not only the World Cup Rugby in September, but also the countdown to the World Netball Championships in July this year.

Do it, for Madiba

Let’s do it Proteas, as President Zuma said: Do it for Madiba. What a fabulous birthday present it would be for our beloved Madiba who celebrates his 93^rd birthday on 18 July 2011.

Pass it on

Netty

June blog 1

Netty — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:44:00 GMT

Clashes ahead

June has been a relatively quiet month for FNB Netball Clashes with only two clashes scheduled, Ben Vorster vs Merensky and Dr Malan vs HS Vereeniging.

FNB Netball Classic Clashes results

Jana Arlow attended the clash between Ben Vorster and Merensky and had this to say about the game: ‘I experienced amazing ‘gees’ and the crowds were great. Congratulations and thank you to all involved.’ Jana

Dr Malan 18 vs 34 HS Vereeniging

Ben Vorster 26 vs 10 Merensky

Taking time out

With school holidays approaching, make sure that you stay fit for the rest of the netball season.

Allow yourself a short break and rest those netball muscles that have worked so hard during the season. If you are nursing an injury, now is the time to get it attended to and fixed. Spend some time on the internet and catch up with world netball happenings and coaching tips, especially the upcoming World Netball Championships.

Try out other social games

Swimming (that’s if you have access to a heated pool) has to be on your list, it is an excellent way to increase your flexibility and at the same time increase your fitness levels.

Volleyball is an excellent aerobic exercise which will also help with improving your jumping and timing ability. You will use almost every muscle in your body!

Basketball will complement your netball through improving your passing, defending, attacking, jumping, shooting and ball handling skills.

Gym, aerobics, pilates, yoga, cycling, so much that you can do!

Coaching tip

Netball is about pace. Work on your sprinting, jogging, running backwards and sideways.

Famous netball quote from way back

‘I didn’t like netball… I used to get wolf whistles because of my short skirts.’ Princess Anne (August 15, 1950).

Magnificent Fridays

Pass it on

Netty

May blog 2

Netty — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:28:00 GMT

Magnificent Fridays

We encourage you to wear your South African supporters gear and fly your SA flags high on Fridays as we countdown, not only the World Cup Rugby in September, but also the countdown to the World Netball Championships in July this year.

Our deputy minister of sport and recreation, Gert Oosthuizen recently announced on Morning Live that the department of sport is committed to making budget available to improve sporting programmes for women and that netball with over two million participants will take priority.

FNB Classic Clashes Netball – Close encounters

Viva FNB Classic Clashes and viva netball! Check out the close scores below:

Witteberg 23 vs Voortekker 28

Marais Viljoen 21 vs Florida 22

Klerksdorp 17 vs Wesvalia 18

Potch Gimmies 29 vs Potch Volkies 20

As promised here are the next three important aspects of the game:

Shooting

Drill One: The coach or player should place five or six cones around the goal circle. The player should start in position at the cone closest to the goalpost. When she is ready, the player can begin shooting. When she has scored from the first position, she should move to the next cone and to the next until he has scored from each position.

Drill Two: This next drill is similar to the last. Have a player stand close to the goalpost. She shoots until she makes it. Step back one foot length and shoot from that spot. Continue moving backwards after made shots for anywhere from six to eight steps. The player can also vary this drill by stepping to the side as well as stepping back.

Drill Three. The third passing drill requires a defender as well as a shooter. The defender should stand in the center of the goal circle. Place a ball on the ground in front of the offensive player. The shooter should pick up the ball and take a shooting stance. The defender then puts up her hands to pressure the coming shot. The defender should allow the shooter to move a step away from her. The shooter then releases the ball and both players get in position for the rebound. The shooter should try and make three successful shots.

Attacking

Attacking is another key element of a successful netball team, seeing as how successful attacks will help players get in position to score, and the following drills will help players improve their attacking skills.

Drill One: Five players should line up behind one another and a sixth player should stand about five meters in front of the first member in the line. The first attacker, or line member, should make a move. The feeder passes to her. The attacker catches the ball and pivots to her side. The player at the back of the line can now make a move. The first attacker passes to the last, and the last player catches and throws a long pass to the feeder. The first attacker then moves to the end of the line and then drill begins again. When everyone has received a pass, the feeder should get in line and one attacker should become feeder.

Drill Two: For this next drill, two feeders should stand about five meters in front of a line of four or five players. The feeders should stand a few meters apart. Give both feeders a ball. The first player in the line should make an attack move to the closest feeder and receives a pass from her. The player returns the ball to the feeder and then makes a different attack move to the other feeder. The ball needs to move rapidly between the feeders and the attackers. The first attacker should move to the end of the line and then the next attacker goes. When each attacker has gone, the feeders should join the line and two new feeders move to pass.

Drill Three: This drill requires an attacker and a feeder. The two should face the same direction, with the attacker standing about five meters behind the feeder. The feeder has a ball and throws it overhead to herself and catches it head high. As she catches, she should turn to face the attacker. As soon as the catch is made, the attacker makes a move. The feeder passes the ball, the attacker catches it and then passes it back to begin the drill again. Make three successful passes and then switch roles.

The final set of drills focuses on defending the ball. Obviously, the better the team defends, the better their chance of winning.

Defending

Drill One: Divide players into pairs. One player is the attacker and the other should act as a defender in a one-on-one situation. The coach yells "go" and the attacker moves with the defender, shadowing every move the attacker makes for three to five seconds.

Drill Two: Two feeders should stand about five meters apart and make shoulder passes to each other. Four defenders line up in between them, about five meters to one side. The first defender watches the pass, gauging its path. When the feeder makes the second pass, the defender should run at full speed to try and pick off the pass. The defender should be able to guess when the best chance to intercept will be. Repeat until all four defenders have gone.

Drill Three: Have two passers stand about 10 meters apart facing each other. One attacker and two defenders should be in the middle of them. The attacker should make a move, while one of the defenders tries to intercept the pass. The passers and attacker pass the ball between themselves until a defender intercepts, deflects, or tips the ball. Go until the defenders have made four successful attempts.

With these comprehensive drills, your team should be well prepared for competitive play. Be creative and come up with your own drills. As long as your team is practicing often and practicing well, the players will stay in shape and will be game savvy.

Source: http://www.essortment.com/netball-coaching-basic-training-drills-4017

Keep up to speed, until next time

Pass it on

Netty

May blog 1

Netty — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:27:00 GMT

‘The netball match between Oranje vs Affies took place on Saturday, 14 May. They managed to get their courts dry on Saturday morning, after the rain had eventually stopped on Friday afternoon. The score for this match was: Oranje 31 vs 29 Affies. It was a great game, with approximately 3 500 spectators!’ Jana Arlow.

Spotlight on Jim Fouché

The school was founded in 1959 and is situated in Bloemfontein. It boasts great facilities such as a hostel, multi centrers which include indoor training centre, computer centre as well as outstanding sporting facilities. Also known as JF, the school prides itself on a balanced approach to eduation .One of its most important objectives is to supply unique services which will ultimately result in happy learners who have every chance of reaching their full potential.

Introducing Jim Fouché netball team

GS Lounél Strydom

GA Janine Human

WA Christelle Cilliers

C Rina Raath

WD Thea van Jaarsveld

GD Chandy Adams

GK Thana Lötter

Reserves: Madel Bezuidehout; Alma Breytenbach; Elsjé Geyer

Introducing Sentraal netball team

GS Kifiloe Tsotetsi

GA Martinique Ferreira

WA Esje Oosthuizen

C Cara Potgieter

WD Donika Butler

GD Charissa du Plessis

GK Simoné Niebuhr

Reserves: Anchen Fourie; Christie Coetzer; Cecile Meyer

Speed and pace drills

I was hoping to share some speed coaching tips from Elize Kotze, head coach, SPAR Protea Netball Team, but as you can understand she is heavily tied up with our Proteas as they prepare for the World Netball Championships in July 2011. She has promised to share some tips with us and as soon as she has some free time, we will pass this onto you. In the mean time here are some tips sourced from the web on how to improve speed and pace in your game, focusing on catching, passing and footwork for now (next time we look at shooting, attacking and defending):

In the sport of netball, there are six basic areas your players will want to focus upon in order to improve their skills. These areas include: catching, passing, footwork, shooting, attacking, and defending. The first set of drills will focus on catching. These drills will concentrate on both the two-handed and one-handed catches. Remember to tell your players to watch the ball all the way into their hands, and to try and catch the ball with their fingers.

Catching

Drill One: Stand about one step away from a wall, facing it with a ball in one hand. Bat the ball rapidly against the wall at about shoulder length, using just the player's fingertips. The player should bat the ball quickly enough to where the ball bounces right back into his hand. Try to perform 10 consecutive taps with each hand.

Drill Two: Divide players into pairs. Players should face each other and stand about two meters apart. Both players need balls, and they should stand with feet shoulder-length apart with knees slightly bent. One player should make a high pass while the other makes a straight pass. Catching and releasing passes immediately are imperative for this drill to work quickly and successfully. Complete 20-25 passes.

Drill Three: Keep the players in pairs. This time, have both players stand facing a wall, standing about a half a meter apart and four steps away from the wall. One player throws the ball against the wall so that it bounces straight back to her. The other player should try to intercept the ball using both hands. The thrower should also try and beat the second player to the ball. Both players must keep their feet on the ground. Try this drill five times.

Passing drills

The second set of drills focuses on passing. Like catching, passes can be one-handed or two-handed. These drills will concentrate on the lob pass, the bounce pass and the chest pass.

Drill One: Players form a line about three to four feet from a trashcan. Players should face away from the can. The first player takes a ball, pivots quickly to his left or right, and lobs the ball towards the can. The player then sprints to grab the ball, returns to the line and then tries to hit the can with a bounce pass. Each player should attempt four passes.

Drill Two: Divide players into pairs and have them stand about four steps apart. Give one player a ball and tell the other to raise her hand high about her head. The passer should try and hit the other player's hand without the player having to move to catch it. Have the second player raise her other hand and try again. Throw five straight passes. Note: the passer should practice different types of throws, i.e. chest, lob, etc.

Drill Three: Divide players into pairs, four meters apart, and give one a ball. One player rolls the ball rapidly to the other. Once she has let go of the ball, the second player should sprint to get it. She should execute a two-handed chest pass back to the first player. Complete five series and then switch roles.

Footwork

Footwork includes the actions of take-off (first two steps), running, changing direction, sidesteps and jumping. While it is simple to develop your own footwork drills, here are a couple to get started:

Drill One: Jog one length of the court. The player should mentally divide the court into thirds. In each third, the player should say "go" to herself and take three running steps. The player should be at full speed by step three. It is important to keep the player's weight down. One length of the court is enough for this drill.

Drill Two: The coach should tape three crosses on the court, five meters apart, to form a triangle. A player should stand at one cross. The coach should say "go" and the player should sprint to the second cross, change direction, and still going full speed, sprint to the third mark and perform a two-foot landing. Repeat the drill in the other direction. Travel the triangle three times.

The next set of drills involves shooting, which should be practiced every day. The more shots players take, the more the shots become second nature and hence almost automatic for the player to make. Ideally, practicing with defenders is beneficial.

Source: http://www.essortment.com/netball-coaching-basic-training-drills-4017

Looking forward to you sending pics (photos) and background to your schools.

Until next time

Pass it on

Netty

April blog 2

Netty — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:25:00 GMT

Netball in 2011

FNB Netball Classic Clashes was scheduled to kick off on 30 April 2011 with Ntsonkotha vs Zweliyandile, unfortunately this clash was washed out and rescheduled for 21 May 2011.

South African Netball Calendar

It’s a busy year for SA Netball with the biggest challenge being the World Netball Championships in Singapore during July 2011.

Please visit Netball South Africa website for details: http://www.netball-sa.co.za/

Netball South Africa announced the Netball Grand Series which is played at club level, so watch out for a game near you.

Our Spar Proteas (SA netball team) has been hard at play in preparation of the World Netball Championships to take place 2-11 July 2011 in Singapore and the following international matches have taken take place recently:

Tri-nations: SA, Singapore and Botswana and a test series against Trinidad/Tobago

We are proud to tell you that our Spar Proteas won both these international series. Once again, you can visit Netball South Africa website to learn more about these events.

Lack of pace

Elize Kotze, head coach of the Spar Proteas squad was recently quoted in the media stating that lack of pace has been identified as a problem and that her coaching staff were hard at work addressing the issue. (Source: The New Age, Monday, 18 April 2011)

In our next blog we will share some tips from Elize Kotze on improving all speed aspects of netball.

Coaching tip:

Talking about pace or speed, learn to turn in the air upon receiving a pass rather than land and then pass. It’s much quicker.

Pass it on

Netty

April blog 1

Netty — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:17:00 GMT

Looking back at netball in 2010

Welcome back to another season of FNB Netball Classic Clashes. By now you should have completed a structured training programme to make sure that you are fit and ready for this year’s netball clashes. We witnessed some great games with amazing ‘gees’ during the 2010 FNB Netball Classic Clashes and look forward to another fabulous season.

2010 Commonwealth Games

If you didn’t get to watch any of the netball matches at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, you sure missed out. It was netball being played at the highest possible level and as a netball fanatic I was truly proud of our wonderful game.

Highlights of the 2010 Commonwealth Games:

Spar Proteas

Obviously we followed and supported our Spar Proteas netball team throughout the games who won three of the five matches played and ended up third in Pool B.

Australia Diamonds vs New Zeeland Silver Ferns final

This was one of the most exciting finals ever with NZ winning by two goals in double overtime and so winning the gold medal.

Mary Waya

Mary Waya, player/coach for Malawi was my personal highlight of the Commonwealth Games. At 42 years of age, she ran circles around her opposition and was master architect of the Malawian netball team. She has been honoured by the President of Malawi for her outstanding contribution to netball.

Mary Waya is a perfect example of how age, height or size do not make you a good netball player; it’s about skills, fitness, reading the game and being a great team member, but mostly about having HEART. Mary Waya, you have it all and remain my hero.

Back to 2011 Clashes

We have 27 netball clashes scheduled for 2011 and we welcome the following new games to the FNB Netball Classic Clashes:

Ndzondelelo vs Itembelihle
Ntsonkotha vs Zweliyandile
Oranje vs Affies
Bloemhof vs Oranje
Marais Viljoen vs Florida
Monument vs Waterkloof

It is another big year for our Spar Proteas as they prepare for the World Netball Championships in Singapore during July 2011 and we will share some thoughts and tips from the dynamic Elize Kotze, head coach, Spar Proteas.

Pass it on

Netty

August 2010 blog

Netty — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 07:54:00 GMT

Wrapping up the Clashes

So, with 16 FNB Netball Classic Clashes behind us and four to go, we start wrapping up our 2010 Clashes and prepare for our off season netball programme.

A wrap from the sponsors:

I asked Jana Arlow, FNB Sponsorship Coordinator, for a quick wrap as we look back at our 2010 FNB Netball Classic Clashes.

Which was the most exciting game for you?

‘All the games I attended were great, but perhaps the most exciting netball clash for me was Framesby vs Nico Malan with Framesby winning by one goal. The other good game took place between Voortrekker and Witteberg in Bethlehem.’

Which school was best at organising the netball clashes?

‘Wow, I think that everyone involved with the organisation on the day was outstanding and I would like to thank all teachers and coaches for a great job done.’

Which school do you think showed the best ‘gees’?

‘Once again, every game I attended had amazing support from the rugby players, parents and teachers. The clash that stood out for me in terms of gees was at Aliwal.’

What are your plans for FNB Netball Classic Clashes in 2011?

‘Watch this space and see how we plan to make these clashes even bigger, by including more schools and exciting prizes to be won.’

My wrap on the clashes:

Though I could not attend all the games, I received up to the minute reports and results from Jana Arlow throughout this year’s FNB Netball Classic Clashes. I also watched the clashes on Supersport and can truly say that the games were very close and the quality of netball was outstanding. Congratulations to all.

There is however one burning question I have! Why do we have so little netball spectator seating at our schools? You are lucky if you can find standing space at most of the schools. Let’s all work to make netball an even greater spectators’ game next year.

My favourite action shot:

Marike Vermaak (HTS Middelberg) in action vs HS Middelberg

My favourite ‘gees’ shot

GHS vs KHS wearing the pink shoelaces in support of people living with cancer

Netball snippets from the West Coast:

Here on the beautiful West Coast of South Africa it’s not just about wheat fields, whales and windsurfing, we love our sport and netball is very much alive and well

Lamberts Bay Primary hosted their annual netball and rugby festival in July with twenty teams participating in this two day event. What impressed me most was the sportsmanship these ‘little’ boys and girls displayed, the kind that Jesse Owens refers to in his quote: …’ And finally, it takes a great deal of love, fairness and respect for your fellow man. Put all these together, and even if you don’t win, how can you lose?’

I spotted some great talent and hope to see these young players competing in the FNB Netball and Rugby Classic Clashes one day.

Graafwater and Velddrif schools are preparing for their inter schools netball and rugby clash on 14 August. I am helping with some netball coaching tips at Graafwater and once again, I have spotted some great talent and gees.

Is there life after the FNB Netball Classic Clashes?

Very much so! You now need to work on a structured training programme in the off season, making sure that you are fit and ready for 2011.

Take time out

Firstly, take a short break for a while and rest those netball muscles that have worked so hard throughout the season. If you are nursing an injury, now is the time to get it attended to and fixed. Spend some time on the internet and catch up with world netball happenings and coaching tips.

Try out other social games

Swimming has to be on your list, it is an excellent way to increase your flexibility and at the same time increase your fitness levels.

Volleyball is an excellent aerobic exercise which will also help with improving your jumping and timing ability. You will use almost every muscle in your body!

Basketball will complement your netball through improving your passing, defending, attacking, jumping, shooting and ball handling skills.

Gym, aerobics, pilates, yoga, cycling, so much that you can do!

Putting together your netball training programme

You need to work out your own individual plan as you all have varied school and family initiatives and responsibilities. I came across this great New Zealand netball website, Netballsmart, which will help you put your training plan together, http://www.netballsmart.co.nz/articles/view/129 .

What ever you do, make sure that you work on your basic netball skills; all sport is about having excellent basic skills.

Something for you to aim at

I went to Google to find out who the most famous netball player in the world would be and guess what I found?

Our own Irene van Dyk! This according to Wiki:

Irene is the most internationally capped player of all time with a whopping, 162 caps. Irene is known for her extremely high shooting percentages, and the amount she shoots. She has had a perfect game in October 2008 against England shooting 41/41. This is a mammoth effort.
She is tall and holds her space very well. She is rarely beaten in the air and has strong hands.
Irene started her netball career for South Africa in 1994. She played 72 caps for South Africa.
She then moved to New Zealand in 2000 and has now played 88 caps.

This could be you, so keep playing this amazing game of netball.

Enjoy the off season, stick to your plan and until next time

Pass it on

Netty

July Netball Blog..

Netty — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 10:09:00 GMT

2010 FIFA World Cup™ - and netball

What have we learned and what does this great event have to do with netball?

Oh you have to be so proudly South African at the moment! Hosting this big event has given us a deep sense of pride and once again united us as a nation. Viva South Africa!

I have so far watched all the games up to 29 June 2010 and more than often found myself comparing netball and soccer (all sport for that matter) reminding me of basics, ball skills, the will to win and playing by the rules.

Netball and soccer similarities

The target of both netball and soccer is to get the ball in the net. The difference is that in soccer you use your feet (unless you are Thierry Henry!) and in netball you use your hands.

Netball and soccer are played with a similar size 5 ball (younger netball players sometimes play with a size 4 ball). Yes, the rules are different, but at the end of the day it’s about the game that is bigger than any individual.

May Netball Blog...

Netty — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 07:13:00 GMT

Let the games begin! Our FNB Netball Classic Clashes kicked off in Queenstown on 17 April 2010 with Kingsridge High School (KHS) vs. Girls High School (GHS). Congratulations to both teams for a great display of netball. Final score: KHS (32) vs. GHS (9). We got to hear about Sanelise (Sasa) Mgijima an eighth grader playing in Kingsridge first netball team and we asked coach Debbie Herbst to tell us more about this amazing fourteen year old netball player:

Position:

Sasa was first spotted by Reg Sharp (SA Umpire and Coach) at a Knysna Netball Festival when she played WD (wing defence) for the Kingsridge u/13 netball team. However, later in the year she was moved to C (centre) as she was needed more in this position. Earlier this year, Sasa successfully tried out for the 1^st netball team. She is playing WA (wing attack) and WD (wing defence). Next year coach Debbie Herbst is hoping to move Sasa back into the centre position. Sasa plays in all KHS 1^st team netball matches. She also recently accompanied the team to Stellenbosch where she took part in the All Girls Festival 2010.

Why Sasa loves playing netball:

Sasa is an extremely gifted netball player. Her ball skills are exceptional and she reads a game very well. Mostly, Sasa loves playing netball for the enjoyment of the game. When you watch Sasa play, the expression on her face shows her ‘love of the game’ !

Hobbies:

Sasa enjoys all sports but when she is at home she enjoys listening to music and reading.

You go Sasa, congratulations from all of us at FNB Netball Classic Clashes!

Netball in the news

Malawi netball team missing in action:

Sadly the Malawi national netball team failed to arrive in South Africa for a three test series against our Proteas. The Proteas netball team was hoping to use the series to improve their world ranking and qualify for the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India later this year. This was a huge disappointment for the team, but the game goes on.

We wish our Proteas well as they now focus on preparing for their trip to New Zealand, where they will play some of the top league teams, and then move on to Samoa for a two-Test series as they continue the Road to London 2012.

Under 19 SA trials:

The Under 19 SA netball trials took place on 2 May 2010 at St Mary’s in Pretoria and we will share with you the final selection in our next blog. In the mean time you can visit netball-sa.co.za to see what’s happening in the world of netball.

Coaching tips:

One hand catching

Ball handling skills are a must! The more things (tricks) that you can do with the ball the better you will be able to catch a difficult pass. A good drill is to learn to catch one handed. You can reach much higher using one hand to intercept or catch a high ball. You need to get underneath the ball, reaching off one leg; your catching hand turned in towards your face, arm slightly bent. This catching movement is more like hooking the ball towards you. Once you have control of the ball, you need to place your non-catching hand on the ball to ensure that you can control a good pass.

Shooting tips

You will come across many different approaches or variations of netball shooting and you will more than likely use the technique that works for you. The shooting tips below are good basics for you to apply and think about before each shot:

Always have a good view of the ring, making sure that your feet are shoulder width apart so that you are well balanced. Try to make yourself as tall as the post! With your fingers spread wide open, the ball should rest on your finger tips, with your other hand supporting the ball. Remember that the power of the shot will come from your feet, so your knees need to be bent as the energy flows from your feet to your hand. Now, as you prepare to release the ball you need to drop the ball behind your head, aiming at the back of the ring. The ball must be released at the same time as you straighten your legs. And now for the final important action, add spin by flicking your wrist. It’s like waving goodbye to the ball. Always follow up your shot for the rebound. And it is here, going for the rebound, that one hand catching will help you out jump your opponent, securing the ball and having a second shot at goal.

FNB Netball Classic Clashes have three iPods to give away, so keep watching this space for the competition details.

Until next time

Pass it on

Netty

PS: A reminder that the following games will be televised, so don’t miss them:

Vereeniging vs Dr Malan	Vereeniging	8 May
Upington vs Duineveld	Upington	8 May
HTS Middelburg vs HS Middelburg	Middelburg	15 May
Sentraal vs Jim Fouche	Bloemfontein	15 May
Potch Volkies vs Potch Gimmies	Potch	22 May – netball on Friday, 21 May
Voortrekker vs Witteberg	Bethlehem	17 Jul
Diamantveld vs Noordkaap	Kimberly	1 August

Netball Clashes

Final whistle for 2011 Clashes

Netball after school - Stay and play

The Clash of the ‘Flower Girls’

August blog 1

July blog 2

July blog 1

June blog 2

June blog 1

May blog 2

May blog 1

April blog 2

April blog 1

August 2010 blog

July Netball Blog..

May Netball Blog...

Netball in the news

Spotlight on Sasa Mgijima