FAQs - effective Feb 2026

What does Netball look like for Years 1 & 2?
Players are put into teams, with a Coach and a Manager. The sessions are split between skills (15 mins) and then a short game (2 x minute halves) of 4v4 players. There are no set positions at this age, keeping it uncomplicated. The games are controlled by the coaches. The programme is designed to maximise the opportunities to participate and get some core basic skills (more successful passes and moving the ball in the right direction!).

What does Netball look like for Years 3?
The game for Year 3s is designed to be fast and fun. Like years 1 and 2, there are no umpires and the game is controlled by the coaches. The sessions begin with a few drills and then a game of 4 x 8minute quarters. 5v5 players play on two thirds of a court with modified hoops. 

What does Netball look like for Years 4?
The game for Year 4s is designed to be fast and fun. Like years 1 and 2, there are no umpires for the first six weeks and the game is controlled by the coaches. In the second half of the season, the children will switch to a 6v6 game. For these last six games, the teams will be required to supply their own umpire. The sessions begin with a few drills and then a game of 4 x 8minute quarters. Players play on two thirds of a court with modified hoops.

What does Netball look like for Years 5 & 6?
Year 5 - Year 5 play 7 a-side rotational netball, players make positional changes each quarter. After a warm up they play 4 x 10 minute quarters with modified hoop hieght 2.6m. Teams need to supply their own umpire.

Year 6 - Year 6 play 7 a-side netball as per usual rules, ie no modifications. Normal hoop height of 3.05m and size 5 ball. Games consisit of 4 x 10 minute quarters. Like year 5, teams will need to supply their own umpire. This can be organised through the club.

Is Netball only for girls?
Absolutely not! We welcome any players to register for a team.

My child hasn't played netball before, can they still join?
Absolutely! Kids learn quickly, and there's no requirement to have played before for any age.

When is the Netball season and when do they play?
The season starts in Term 2, and runs from 12th May -  11th August. All year groups will play at the A&P Grounds in Warkworth on a Tuesday afternoon. Game times between 4 - 6.30pm.

Teams may decide to have a practice before, or after school during the week.

How much are the season fees and when are they due?
All fees are paid online upon registration. If you'd like to make alternative arrangements, please email matakanahawks@gmail.com 

Season membership fees are as follows;
Years 1-4: $85
Years 5-6 $110

​​​​​​​How can I be involved as a parent?
​​​​​​​FutureFERNS provides much support for parents wanting to be involved as Coach or Manager. Week-by-week the planning is done for you - and you don't need a netball background at all! As a club, we will set you up with all you need to know, all gear, and will be here if you need a hand. It's a really great opportunity to have that dedicated time and focus with your child, and get to know their peers.

If you have work commitments during the week, the Manager role might be for you.

Rumour has it there are some new rules on the netball court?
You are not wrong! World netball has made some changes to the rule book, please click this link to see new rules effective Jan 1st 2024 onwards.