Netball is a women's team sport similar to basketball. Participants move a ball down a wooden court with the intention of putting it in a basket. Rules are similar to that of basketball, except players are not allowed to dribble or make contact.

Netball began as a woman's version of basketball. The game quickly spread to England and its former colonies, where it became popular. Played on a court similar in size to a basketball court, netball is emphasizes team play over that of the individual. Passing is the only method of ball movement, a rule that causes full team involvement. Goals are scored by shooting the ball through a ring. The team with the most goals at the end of the game is the winner.

Score more goals than the opposing team by shooting the ball through the ring.

Netball is played on a rectangular court with rings at both ends. Games are divided into four 15-minute quarters. The court is divided into thirds, which regulate where individuals of each position are allowed to move. The 7 players on each team wear bibs indicating their positions. Offsides is called if a player wanders outside their designated area(s) of the court. Play begins with a center pass, taken by the center player. This action is also taken at the beginning of each quarter, and after goals are scored. The only way to move the ball towards the goal is through passing. Players cannot be in possession of the ball for more than three seconds. Contact is only permitted when it does not impede with an opponent. Players must also stay at least three feet away from an opposing player in possession of the ball. Goals can only be scored by the goal attack and goal shooter positions, which can play inside the goal circle. Goals are only counted if they are scored from within the goal circle. The team with the most goals at the end of play is the winner.

Netball was developed in 1895, when Clara Baer, a gym teacher from New Orleans, began studying the rules and strategies of basketball. She developed her sport to be a female version of basketball. Official rules were ratified in 1901. The game was introduced to England and its colonies during the first decade of the 20th century. In 1960 the International Federation of Netball Associations was founded to serve as the governing body for international play. In 1963 the first world championship was held, and is held every four years. In 1995 netball became a recognized Olympic sport, opening the door for its inclusion in the Olympic Games. Today netball remains a popular sport throughout the world, especially in South Asia, where its popularity has undergone a huge surge.

Ball
Bibs
Rings (2)

Netball is a relatively safe sport due to a lack of any significant physical contact. Injuries that occur are usually limited to minor sprains and pulls.

Netball training is similar to that of basketball. Players should develop speed, agility and effective passing skills. These can be developed through aerobic exercise, sprinting drills and team practicing.

Bib - sleeveless garment worn to distinguish players' positions

Center Pass - play starting pass taken by the center player; must be taken with one foot grounded, within the center circle

Rings - circular goals mounted on 3-meter high posts; similar to the baskets in basketball

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netball