How to Adjust Your Netball Game When Playing in the Rain

Rainy weather might dampen the court, but it doesn’t have to dampen your netball performance. While wet conditions can make the game trickier—and a little messier—they also give players a chance to sharpen different skills and adapt their play. The key? Knowing how to adjust your game safely and smartly.

Here’s how to tweak your netball strategy, movement, and mindset to thrive when the skies open up.

1.

Simplify Your Passing Game

In dry conditions, you might be used to zippy shoulder passes or fast bounce passes across the court. In the rain, however, wet hands and slippery balls make those risky. Wet netballs are harder to grip and control, and a fumbled pass is much more likely.

What to do instead:

• Stick to short, strong chest passes whenever possible.

• Avoid high lobs unless necessary—they’re harder to catch and can go astray in wind or rain.

• Slow down your release to ensure a clean, accurate pass.

2.

Rein in Your Footwork

Quick stops and sudden pivots are part of the game—but in the rain, they can be dangerous. Slippery surfaces mean you’re more likely to slip, slide, or lose balance.

Adjust by:

• Slowing down your changes of direction—make them more controlled and deliberate.

• Keeping your feet lower to the ground for better stability.

• Wearing shoes with good grip, ideally ones designed for outdoor or wet surfaces.

3.

Improve Ball Control and Handling

Rain makes everything slippery—your hands, the ball, even your bib! That means catching and controlling the ball requires more focus.

Tips for better control:

• Dry your hands and the ball whenever possible (bring a towel if allowed).

• Use a two-handed catch more often for extra security.

• Be more deliberate with catching and securing the ball before moving or passing.

4.

Adapt Your Attacking and Defensive Strategies

In the rain, fast breaks and big leaps become much riskier. That changes how you should approach attacking plays and defensive pressure.

Attack adjustments:

• Use shorter, sharper leads instead of sprinting long distances.

• Prioritise safe possession over flashy moves.

• Communicate clearly with teammates so everyone is on the same page.

Defence adjustments:

• Focus on positioning rather than lunging or reaching.

• Stay light on your feet but avoid diving or overcommitting—slips can take you out of the play.

• Expect more dropped balls, and be ready to scoop up loose possessions quickly.

5.

Play With a Calm and Focused Mindset

The rain can cause frustration—passes go astray, your socks get soaked, and your usual tactics might not work. But mentally strong teams are the ones that adapt the fastest.

How to stay mentally in the game:

• Stay positive and composed—everyone’s dealing with the same conditions.

• Support your teammates when mistakes happen.

• Focus on what you can control: effort, communication, and attitude.