Netball UK Forum

[deedee]

We've been trying to apply 'contest vs contact' in our local league but it seems to cause more problems than it solves........ Players assume because you haven't actually said or done anything then you must have MISSED the 'contact' by their opponent (and it's usual for BOTH players to believe the other is at fault!). Umpires are encouraged to 'keep up with the rules' - in fact in our league we have to attend regular meetings and be continually re-assessed by the umpiring secretary! Unfortunately many players don't appear to do anything to keep up with the rules or the many changes in the interpretation of them.

[Rachel Henry]

I think it is quite a useful tool to have umpires and players working together. it gives the opportunity for players to ask questions and helps them understand and keep up. It also gives umpires the opportunity to have an insight into into what it is like for a player and vice versa.
They do this at england netball training weekends and it helps keep players and umpires up to date.