.png)
UMPIRE NETBALL BASIC RULES
Offside
When a player steps over an area which they’re not permitted in, with or without the ball is called offside. If a player goes offside, it is called a penalty and it is a free pass to the other team.
​
​
Over a third
If a ball is thrown over a complete third without being touched by a player in that third it is then called over a third and a free pass to the other team that didn’t throw the ball.
​
​
The Goal Post
A player cannot use the goal post to push of, regain their balance, steady themselves or rock it. The penalty is a free pass to the opposing team. If the defence team has committed the offence while the GA or GS is shooting, it is a penalty pass/penalty pass or shot.
​
​
Held ball
When a player gains possession of the ball, the player has within three seconds to pass the ball or shoot for a goal.
​
​
Stepping/Footwork
When a player lands on one foot they may step with the other foot, life the landing foot but must throw the ball before putting the lifted foot back on the ground. This is also for the centre circle – players must have a grounded foot in the circle and not lift it before throwing.
​
​
Contact
A player cannot come into contact with another player in any way which impedes their play. For example, tripping an opponent, pushing, or using the ball to push or contact an opponent. Players must not hold an opponent or keep their elbows against another player. The penalty for contact is a penalty pass/penalty pass or shot to the other team.
​
​
Obstruction
A player needs to be 0.9m (3 feet) when defending a player with arms extended. The distance is measured from the first landing foot of the attacking player to the nearest foot of the defending player. This also includes if you put your hands up before getting the distance of 3 feet.
Umpires area of control
Umpires can only control one half of the court and one side line. If something happens in the other umpires half it is only the controlling umpire who can all it.
For Mixed Teams
There must always be at least 1, but no more than 3 male players on court. Male players must be positioned one in each third
Example: A maximum of one (1) male player can be in any playing third at any time i.e offense (GS, GA), mid-court (WA, C, WD) or defense (GK, GD).
​
Please ask umpires to confirm.