Whāngārā’s Perfect Tribute to Coach Martin

by liam.oconnor - Sports Editor

2025-06-16 01:05:00

Waikohu wins Thrilling Netball Clash

Claydens Waikohu (1) edged out Horouta Gold in a nail-biting netball match, winning 51-49.

  • Waikohu secured a narrow victory after a back-and-forth contest.
  • Teh lead changed hands multiple times, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
  • Other senior grade results are also included, with bonus points awarded for close games.

The defending champions, Claydens waikohu (1), emerged victorious with a score of 51-49 against Horouta Gold in a thrilling netball encounter. This high-stakes match was a testament to the teams’ determination, with the lead fluctuating throughout the game.

Reigning Premier Grade champions waikohu had to work hard to beat a dogged Horouta gold on Saturday. Princess Tomoana (GA) puts a shot up in their 51-49 win in the YMCA. Photo / Murray Robertson

A Close-Fought Battle

Did you know?-Netball was first played in England in the 1890s. Originally called “basketball for ladies,” it evolved into its own sport with distinct rules. The first official rules were established in the early 20th century.

The match between Waikohu and Horouta Gold was a true test of skill and endurance.Each team applied immense pressure, with remarkable intercepts and tips resulting in exciting turnovers. The quarter scores reflected the close nature of the contest, with Waikohu leading 14-13 in the first quarter, the score tied at 28-all at halftime, and Horouta leading 42-41 going into the final quarter. The teams worked tirelessly, battling tight defenses and quickly moving the ball when opportunities arose, only to have the score pegged back throughout the hour’s play.

Other Matches

Pro tip:-When watching netball, pay attention to the center pass after each goal. This strategic play frequently enough dictates the flow of the game and can provide a crucial advantage to the team receiving the pass.

In Wednesday night Premier action, Gisborne Girls’ High School Senior A will face Taste One High School Old Girls at 6 p.m. Girls’ high, who started the season well, will be looking to regain their form, while HSOG, with two wins in three games, will be aiming for another victory. YMP will play Horouta Gold at 7.30 p.m. YMP demonstrated their strength in beating Girls’ High convincingly, and Horouta, with two wins from four games, will be looking to make a mark in what should be another close contest.

Senior grade Results

Reader question:-What does it mean when bonus points are awarded in netball? Bonus points are often given in league play for close losses or for winning a certain number of quarters, adding an extra layer of competition.

Here are the results from other senior grade matches:

  • Premier Reserve: chief 29, Ymp Masters 25; Audi Ibsolu 16, Brendan Fry Builders SportersFit 37 85.
  • Grade: Whatism 37, Marshut is HSG 33; Pioneer Article 33, Pioneer The tav 25; United States (2) 29, Tire General Formal 7.
  • A Reserve: Tatapouri Sportsfit (2) 27, Gisborne Girls’ High Junior A 24; Kapiana A 24, Enterprise Motors OBM 24; Allwood Enterprises HSOG 32, GGHS Sen B 25.
  • 1st Grade: steve Craill Builder The Points 22, Newman Gold 14, Center Ringa, 31-Social Features.
  • 2nd Grade: Green Panthers 32, AutotEch HSOG 13; Obm OG 34, Pioneer Pioneer 11; Pioneer Earthwork Solutions 10, Obm OG 28.

The Strategic Roles in Netball

Beyond the thrill of a close score, netball is a game of keen strategy and specialized roles. Understanding these roles is key to appreciating the dynamism on the court. Each player on a netball team has a designated position, influencing their movement, scoring opportunities, and defensive responsibilities.

Netball positions are carefully planned to create a balanced attack and defense. Each position is designed to optimize player strengths and cover specific areas of the court. This structure contributes to the fast-paced and intricate nature of the sport.

attackers

The attacking end of the court relies on precise passing and accurate shooting. These positions have specialized responsibilities that maximize scoring chances.

  • Goal Shooter (GS): Primary goal scorer. They are typically positioned close to the goal circle and are responsible for taking the majority of the shots.
  • Goal Attack (GA): Works in tandem with the GS, moving in and out of the goal circle to create shooting opportunities and feed the ball to the GS. The GA also assists in bringing the ball down the court.
  • Key Roles:
    • Accuracy: The focus of the attackers is to score goals.They must maintain accuracy in their shots.
    • Movement: They need to be sharp within the goal circle and use strategic movements to receive passes.

Midcourt Players

Midcourt players connect the defense with the attack.These energetic players need excellent ball-handling skills.

  • Wing Attack (WA): Brings the ball from the midcourt to the goal circle, delivering it to the GA and GS. The WA often provides excellent passes.
  • Wing Defence (WD): Plays to stop the opposing team’s WA from passing the ball into their goal circle. A WD needs fast reflexes, strong interception skills, and determination.
  • Center (C): The central player. They move the ball from one end of the court to another.The C also feeds the circle players and is responsible for the centre pass after a goal.
  • Key Roles:
    • Endurance: Midcourt players cover the majority of the court.They need excellent fitness and endurance.
    • Ball Handling: passing skills and the ability to read the game are key requirements.

Defenders

Defenders focus on disrupting the opponents’ play,gaining possession,and protecting their goal circle.

  • Goal Defence (GD): Defends the attacking players and attempts to block shots. They are also responsible for gaining possession in the defensive third.
  • Goal keeper (GK): Positioned in the goal circle to block shots and intercept passes. The GK is an important player, and one of netball’s most physically demanding roles.
  • Key Roles:
    • Positioning: Defenders need to watch the movements of their opponents and plan their interceptions.
    • Strength: Defenders are the last line of defense, guarding the goal ring. Their roles require strength.

What are the basic netball positions? The primary netball positions include Goal Shooter (GS), Goal Attack (GA), Wing Attack (WA), centre (C), Wing Defence (WD), Goal Defence (GD), and Goal Keeper (GK). each position has specific responsibilities in attack and defense. This structure ensures a balanced team and strategic gameplay.

How do you learn your netball position? The best way to learn a netball position is through practice, coaching, and familiarizing yourself with the rules. Play different positions to understand the dynamics and hone the skills necessary for each role.

Expert Tip:-When learning netball, observe experienced players, and study the movement of players in each position, paying close attention to how they work together to create scoring chances or disrupt the opponent’s attack.

You may also like

Leave a Comment