Running Your Netball Team

2017 (1)

What if we don’t have enough players?

Here’s what you can do: Pop a post in the Facebook group: The quickest way to find extra players is by asking in the group. With so many netball-loving ladies ready to jump in, you’ll likely have someone volunteering in no time!

Ask your BLOOM Netball coordinator for help: If you’re struggling to find someone. They’ll happily help match you with a player or two to fill those spots. Remember we don’t ask players to register for their teams, so you are more than welcome to grab your friend, aunt, gran.. whoever you want to get involved (as long as they’re over 14) With our wonderful netball community, it’s rare to be left short!

Can we have mixed-gender teams?

We do have some mixed leagues that allow males to play too, but currently, most of our leagues are for women age 14+ and only if it’s a mixed league, will you be able to have a mixed team.

What happens if we need to forfeit a game?

It doesn’t happen a lot but there are occasions where teams may need to forfeit a game.
If you need to do this, get in touch with your league coordinator asap and they will help you find some players to avoid having to forfeit your game and give you some options.

Here’s what would happen in the instance that you would need to forfeit your game :

  • All teams are expected to fully commit to the whole season.
  • Any team unable to fulfil a fixture must contact their League Coordinator asap who will advise accordingly.
  • A team who are unable to fulfil their fixture will be deemed to have forfeited that game to the opposition. The opposition will be awarded the full 5 points and a match score of 15-0.
  • Teams forfeiting a fixture will still be charged their weekly match fee. This applies to all fixtures cancelled during the course of one season. The team forfeiting the fixture will also be charged the opposition match fee.

Do we have to register our individual players?

Nope, no registration required! The beauty of BLOOM Netball is that we keep things super chill – no need to lock players in. So feel free to bring along your friends, sisters, mums, aunties, or even your gran for a fun game! It’s all about flexibility and having a blast together. So, just grab your crew, show up, and play!

What happens if we don’t have enough players on the day?

  • Games can go ahead with fewer players, but your team will need a minimum of 5 to avoid forfeiting. You can also use subs from other teams – just clear it with the umpire first.

How are points awarded?

  • Win = 5 points
  • Draw = 3 points
  • Loss (but by 5 or less goals) = 2 points
  • Loss (but scored more than half) = 1 point

What do the letters mean on the score table? P = Games Played

W = Wins

D = Draws

L = Losses

F = Goals For (total goals your team has scored)

A = Goals Against (total goals scored by opponents)

GD = Goal Difference (Goals For minus Goals Against)

BP = Bonus Points (awarded for losing by 5 goals or fewer or scoring over half the opponent’s total)

Pts = Points (total points your team has earned)

So even if you lose a game or two, there’s still plenty of chance for your team to bag some points!

How do we decide who plays which position?

Here’s a simple rundown of Netball positions and their main jobs on court—plus a fun description of who that person might be so you can spot them in your team!

1. Goal Shooter (GS) 🎯

Job:

  • Focuses on scoring goals.
  • Stays in the shooting circle to receive passes and take shots.
  • Needs accuracy and good positioning to get the ball in the net.

Who They Are:
The Sharp Shooter of the team! Always calm under pressure, this person loves the spotlight and is all about scoring those crucial goals. Think of them as your team’s “goal machine.” 🔥

2. Goal Attack (GA) 🔄

Job:

  • Helps the GS score by feeding them passes in the shooting circle.
  • Can move around the attacking half of the court to create space and support the shooter.
  • Also helps with ball movement to get it into the shooting area.

Who They Are:
The Creative Playmaker! They’re quick, crafty, and always thinking one step ahead. They can see openings where others don’t and love assisting teammates to make things happen. 🎨

3. Wing Attack (WA) 🏃‍♀️

Job:

  • Links the attack and midfield by passing the ball through the court.
  • Focuses on getting the ball into the shooting circle.
  • Must move quickly to create space for passes.

Who They Are:
The Speedster! Always on the move, this person loves to sprint, dodge, and weave through defenders. They’re the one creating the opportunities and passing magic to move the ball forward. ⚡

4. Centre (C) 🔄

Job:

  • The all-rounder!
  • Works both in the attacking and defensive thirds, covering the whole court.
  • Moves the ball from defense to attack and vice versa.
  • Key in creating flow and linking teammates.

Who They Are:
The Energizer Bunny! This person is everywhere – leading the charge in attack and rushing back to defend. They have endless energy, a great attitude, and keep the team buzzing. 🔋

5. Wing Defence (WD) 🛡️

Job:

  • Stays in the defensive half and tries to stop the WA from feeding the ball into the circle.
  • Works hard to intercept passes and block the opponent.
  • Needs speed and agility to keep up with the opposition’s attack.

Who They Are:
The Defensive Dynamo! They’re quick, tough, and always on the hunt for that interception. If there’s a ball to be stolen, they’ll be there to snatch it away. ⚔️

6. Goal Defence (GD) 🚧

Job:

  • Protects the shooting circle and tries to stop the GA from scoring.
  • Works with the GK to prevent the ball from getting into the shooting area.
  • Needs good timing and positioning to intercept or deflect passes.

Who They Are:
The Wall! This person is a brick wall in defense, tough and unshakeable. They’re always ready to block, intercept, or challenge the attackers, making sure they don’t get an easy shot. 🏰

7. Goal Keeper (GK) 🛡️

Job:

  • Protects the goalposts and tries to stop the GS from scoring.
  • Works closely with the GD to block and intercept passes in the shooting circle.
  • Must be tall, patient, and quick to react to shots or passes.

Who They Are:
The Goal-Stopper! They’re the team’s last line of defense, calm under pressure and always ready to dive for that crucial interception or save. They’ve got the height, the focus, and the reflexes to keep the goals out. 💪

Each position is important for the team’s success, and teamwork is key! Whether you’re the playmaker, the goal scorer, or the defensive powerhouse, you’re all part of the magic that happens on the court! 🌟💖

The Money Bit

Here are some ways you can manage your teams when it comes to the pennies!

1. Upfront Payments

  • Collect a lump sum at the start of the season to cover match fees for a set number of games.
  • Reduces the risk of missed payments and makes budgeting easier.

2. Weekly Payments

  • Players pay their match fee each week before or immediately after the game.
  • A team captain or treasurer can track payments to ensure everyone contributes fairly.

3. Monthly Payments

  • Players contribute a set amount each month (e.g., £20) to cover match fees.
  • Helps spread costs evenly and avoids large one-off payments.

4. Online Banking or Payment Apps

  • Use apps like PayPal, Revolut, or bank transfers to collect and track fees digitally.
  • Helps avoid handling cash and provides a clear record of payments.

5. Team Apps (Teamo, Spond, Heja)

  • These apps allow teams to manage match fees, send payment reminders, and track who has paid.
  • Reduces admin work and keeps everything in one place.

6. Team Fund or Kitty

  • Teams contribute to a shared fund at the start of the season, which is used to cover match fees.
  • Any extra money at the end of the season can be used for socials or new kit.

Options for Borrowed Players/Subs Paying Match Fees:

Yes, They Pay a Full Match Fee

  • The borrowed player pays the standard match fee, just like any regular team member.
  • This ensures fairness and covers the cost of the game

Yes, but at a Reduced Rate

  • Some teams charge subs a lower fee since they are only filling in occasionally.
  • This can help encourage players to step in when needed.

No, the Team Covers It

  • If the regular squad has already paid their fees upfront, the team may decide to cover the cost for a sub.
  • This works well for teams with a set season payment structure.

Split Between the Team

  • Some teams divide the borrowed player’s fee among the rest of the players to avoid extra costs for the sub.

Best Practice:

  • Be clear about if there is a cost involved when needing subs when you post in to your Facebook group.
  • If using a team app (Teamo, Spond, Heja), you can track payments and adjust as needed.

How do we pay for our games?

Team payments are made directly via your online Locker Room account. Once you have added your card details, that’s it, simple! We don’t take any payment until after your first game. You can choose to pay either weekly or for the full season.

How do we pay the umpire?

Paying the umpire is super simple! Each player just needs to bring along a small umpire fee on the night, typically around £1.20-£1.40 (This can vary depending on your match duration). The captain or treasurer can collect this from everyone before the game and pass it on to the umpire.

If you’re unsure about the amount, check with your coordinator or captain – they’ve got you covered!

Can we pay in installments?

Your can choose to pay either weekly or for the season in full via Locker Room. Reach out to discuss options if needed.

Who to contact

Who can I contact if I have a question about the league?

A: You can reach out to your BLOOM Netball League coordinator anytime! They’re here to help with anything you need. You can find their contact info in several places:

  • In your team registration email sent to you when you registered for the season 📧
  • On our league Facebook group (about section) 📱
  • On the BLOOM Netball website by using our ‘Find a League’ tool and searching for your league name 🌐

Feel free to get in touch – whether it’s a quick question or something more, we’re always happy to help and aim to respond within 24 hours

How Do I Contact BLOOM Netball Head Office?

You can reach BLOOM Netball Head Office by emailing hello@bloomnetball.co.uk. For any other inquiries, feel free to get in touch, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Can We Change Our Team Name?

Yes of course! Just contact your coordinator, and they’ll be able to sort it out for you in no time. New team name, here you come!

I’m Having Trouble Signing in to Locker Room.

Don’t worry! You can either request a password reset, or if you’re still having issues, just get in touch with your coordinator. They’ll be happy to help you get it all sorted.

Where Do I Find Information About the Venue?

You can find all the details about your venue, including the location, on the BLOOM Netball website. Simply visit our League Finder for more information.

Additionally, check out the About section on your league’s Facebook group, where the venue details are also listed. If you need anything else, feel free to contact your coordinator – they’re always happy to help.

Cancelled/Rescheduled Games

What if the weather stops the games from going ahead?

Most games go ahead as scheduled, even in light rain. However, In extreme weather, we’ll contact team captains/post in the facebook group by 5pm/2 hours before games about cancellations or reschedules.

What if our game is cancelled/rescheduled – Will the payment still be taken?

No – We do not take any payment if your game has been cancelled or rescheduled. It may look like we have on your bank account as you may have a pending payment, but once we have rescheduled your cancelled your fixture, the payment will be released back in to your account.

When will the cancelled/rescheduled game be played?

We will usually move the game to the end of the season, to give you enough notice. However, we may sometimes try to replay games on another date. Your coordinator will make contact with captains to confirm a suggested date is suitable.

What if one of our players can’t pay?

Your team can still play as long as you have at least 5 players. If you are ever short, please use your local league group to post for volunteers to help (it’s likely there will be several ladies dying to play some more netball!)
Your league coordinator would be happy to assist if you cannot find anyone to help.

Can individuals pay separately?

Unfortunately not, the captain/treasurer is responsible for the match fee for each team.

Is there a limit on how many games I can play?

Nope, there’s no limit to how many games you can play! We hope we’ve given you such a buzz at our Couch2Court session that you’ll want to play as much as possible! Whether you’re eager to play one game or join us for multiple, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. The more netball, the better, right?

Can we play in more than one BLOOM Netball League?

Absolutely! You can play in as many leagues as you like—we have lots of ladies playing throughout the week, and there are plenty of leagues running across the country. So if you’re looking for more opportunities to play, there’s likely another night available for you!

Check out our league finder here: Find a League or chat with your coordinator- they’d love to help you get even more netball in your week!

Can More Experienced Players Play in BLOOM Netball Leagues Too?

Absolutely! While many of our players start or restart their netball journey with our Couch2Court sessions, we also have experienced players who join our leagues and get a lot out of the experience.

If you’re an experienced player, just be mindful of the level of the league you choose to play in. To keep things fair, we ask experienced players to play out of position or offer a little extra guidance to newer players. After all, it’s all about fun, learning, and community!

Do You Run Any Training Sessions?

We don’t run traditional training sessions because we believe the best way to learn is by playing! Our fantastic umpires are like your personal netball coaches on the court- sharing tips, tricks, and advice during games to help you level up your skills.

However, every now and then, we sprinkle in a Refresher/Skills session in some of our leagues. These are a brilliant opportunity for new players to get stuck in and for seasoned players to brush up on their skills or learn something new. Think of it as a little netball magic to boost your game!

What Happens Once the Season Has Finished?

If everyone’s still buzzing to play, we’ll invite all teams to re-register for the next season and do it all over again! More netball, more fun, and more memories to make!

Communication and Updates

How do we get game schedules and updates?

  • Schedules/Fixtures can be found via Locker Room and a post is added to the league facebook group as soon as they are available to view.

How do we raise a question or concern?

  • Contact your coordinator who will be able to help with any queries.

Can we suggest improvements?

  • Absolutely! We’d love to hear your feedback. Drop your coordinator a message/email and they will be glad to listen to your feedback.

Will Our League Coordinator Be at All of Our Games?

Not every game – but don’t worry! Our coordinators pop by your league a couple of times each season to check in (often bringing treats, because who doesn’t love a surprise snack?).

When they’re not at your games, they stay in touch with the umpires running match nights and frequently communicate out to everyone in your league groups. If you need them, feel free to drop them a message – they’re always happy to help! 😊