Managing the Game
- Dec 3, 2025
- 2 min read
Umpires are in charge of keeping the game fair, safe, and flowing. You’re part umpire, part traffic controller, and part cheerleader for good, fun netball!
1. You’re the Boss… But a Friendly One
You control the game and make the decisions. If something tricky happens, you and your co-umpire can chat and help each other out. Teamwork makes the dream work!
2. Before the Game Starts
Do a quick check to make sure:
The court, posts, and balls are all good to go
Players are ready to play safely (no jewellery, correct shoes, etc.)
3. During the Game
Your main job is to keep the game safe and fair. If someone isn’t ready to play properly, you may need to stop them until they are.
4. Who Umpires Where?
Each umpire is in charge of one half of the court for the entire game — one takes one side, the other takes the opposite. Easy!
You also control:
Your closest sideline
The goal and goal line to your right when you’re facing the court
Stick to your own area and trust your co-umpire to handle theirs. Only step in if they ask for your help — this keeps decisions clear, fair, and consistent for everyone.
You control the throw ins (and obstruction) for your controlling sideline.
5. The Whistle Is Your Superpower
Your whistle is used to:
Start and finish each quarter
Restart play after a goal
Call rule breaks
Signal when the ball goes out
Let players know when play is about to restart
Tip: Confident whistles = confident umpire!
6. Calling a Penalty
When something goes wrong:
Blow the whistle
Say the infringement clearly
Use a hand signal if you can
Point to where play will restart
No need to over-explain — clear and calm is perfect.
7. Where Should You Stand?
Move along the sideline and behind the goal to get the best view, . Try to stay out of the way of the players — you’re part of the game, but not in the game!
8. If the Ball Hits You… Oops!
Most of the time, play just continues. If a team is clearly disadvantaged because of it, you’ll stop play and fix it up fairly.
