WEST MELTON NETBALL CLUB Team Selection Policy

Trial Policy (Applicable to All Relevant Age Groups)

• Players must register on the club website (www.sporty.co.nz/westmeltonnetball) and pay the applicable membership fees or trial fee prior to taking the court.

• Trials will be held indoors at the West Melton Community Centre end of February early March.

• Trials will be advertised on the club’s website, Facebook page, and via email to the club’s database.

• Trials will consist of one Trial/Skills Evaluation for Year 5/6, two Trials for Year 7/8 and Senior teams, with a third trial held for Senior teams if required.

• Trials are closed for all age groups, meaning no spectators will be permitted during the trials. This policy is in place to create an environment where players can focus on their performance without feeling observed or pressured by friends, family, or others. It also helps selectors to make unbiased decisions by preventing external influences. We believe that the selection process should be private to ensure fairness and confidentiality.

• Trials will consist of a warm-up and a series of short games or skill sessions, depending on age group.

• Each senior player may nominate up to two preferred playing positions and will be considered for at least two opportunities, with efforts made to include one in a preferred position. Year 7/8 players may be trialed in both attack and defence positions, in line with Netball NZ recommendations.

• Players may be asked to trial in a position not nominated by them at the discretion of the Selection Panel.

• Trials are mandatory unless an exemption is granted, and players should direct feedback or questions to the West Melton Netball Committee. Minimum attendance at one trial is required unless under exceptional circumstances (e.g., injury), with club committee discretion for selection without trialling. If you are unable to attend trials, your previous year’s playing grade and position will be taken into account to make a calculated decision. The selection panel may also contact the previous year coach/club.You may be required to attend a training session prior to team placement to assist with accurate selection.

• Players must be in the appropriate school year level for their team (e.g., Year 9 or older for senior teams, Years 7–8, Years 5–6, etc.).

• Players will attend their designated year group trials. Senior Year 11+, Year 9/10, Year 7/8& Year 5/6.

Team Selection Criteria

• Membership: Players must be financial members of West Melton Netball Club.

• Training & Availability: Players are expected to attend one training session per week and be available for weekly matches in the appropriate Selwyn Netball Centre Competition.

• Fitness: All players must complete their own fitness sessions independently.Premier players are expected to undertake additional or more intensive fitness training to meet the demands of higher-level competition.

• Umpiring: Umpiring is encouraged, as teams cannot play without allocated umpires. Teams are required to provide umpires when named on the umpire draw. Failure to do so may result in fines or other penalties.

• Team Flexibility: Players must be willing to play in a higher team if needed during the season.

• Compliance: Players must adhere to all West Melton Netball Club policies and procedures, including signing the Player Conduct and Health and Safety policies.

• Communication: If a player chooses to withdraw from their team, they must notify the club via email (westmeltonnetball@gmail.com) within 48 hours.

• Team Structure: Teams will be selected by keeping year groups together where possible, to support team development. Age groups are as follows: Year 11+, Years 9/10, Year 7/8, Year 5/6. Year 9+ Players may be selected to play in higher age groups if they meet the Fundamental Netball Skills Requirements and it will be beneficial to their development.

Ideal team sizes are:

• 5/6 years: 8 players

• 7/8 years: 9 players

• Senior Teams: 9 players

Please note that these ideal team sizes may not always be achievable due to the number of players available.

We can’t guarantee placement with friends for a few key reasons:

1. Team Balance and Fairness: The main goal of the selection process is to ensure teams are balanced in terms of skill level, allowing each player the opportunity to develop and contribute meaningfully. Placing players with their friends could unintentionally create unbalanced teams, which might not provide an equal opportunity for development.

2. Age and Skill Levels: Not all players within the same year group will have the same skill level or experience. Team selection needs to take into account the need for balanced teams that cater to various levels of play. Simply grouping players with their friends could result in a mismatch of abilities, which would not help the development of the players or the team's performance.

3. Team Cohesion: While placing players with friends might seem like a good idea for social reasons, it may not always result in the best team dynamic for improving netball skills. Teams are often better off with a mix of different personalities and skills, allowing players to grow together in a supportive and challenging environment.

4. Logistical Challenges: In some cases, the number of players requesting to be with friends may exceed the number of spaces available on a team, making it impossible to honor everyone’s request without compromising team balance or size.

Ultimately, while we understand that playing with friends can be a fun and supportive experience, the goal of team selection is to ensure the best development opportunities for all players, which sometimes means making difficult decisions about team composition. If there are extreme circumstances where you would like consideration for friends to play together, this request must be made in writing to the club secretary at westmeltonnetball@gmail.com. Additionally, the same request must be received from all families involved. Please note that this may result in your child being placed in a team lower than their ability, as team selection will be based on the lowest player’s skill level within the group.

Selection Policy 

Objectives:

To have ability-grouped players enter the Selwyn Netball competition at the appropriate level for each player’s ability and development stage, regardless of age. Players will be selected based on their ability in a fair and transparent manner, with the aim of identifying, attracting, developing, and retaining talented netball players across all age groups, and supporting the continuous improvement of their skills.

Selection Policy:

The Selectors will be appointed at the discretion of the committee and will include, as a minimum, the following members: 2x Independent Selectors, & Senior Coach. All selectors should have relevant experience or qualifications, such as coaching certifications or player development expertise, to ensure objective and informed decision-making.

No person with a conflict of interest (e.g., close family ties) may be appointed to the selection panel. All selectors must declare any potential conflicts of interest, and may be replaced if a conflict is identified.

Coaches may be present at trials but are required to remain in the designated observation space. To maintain fairness and consistency in the selection process, coaches must not approach selectors or players. Selectors may initiate contact with a coach if further information or clarification is needed.

Prior to Selections:

Each Selector shall:

• Be familiar with the relevant selection policy for the team/squad they are selecting. Parameters should be provided depending upon whether a squad or team is being selected, the number of players required, and the type of players needed.

• Review the details of: Team lists, Dates of birth for squad/team eligibility, and the playing positions of players.

During Selections:

Each Selector shall:

• Consider all players equally at the beginning of the process.

• Evaluate a variety of aspects of the player’s game, including warm-up, teamwork, leadership, attitude, coach-ability, communication, combinations, fitness, skill, and individual player characteristics.

• Ensure that Year 9, 10, and 11 players are only selected into Premier grade teams after consultation with selectors, previous coaches, and the club committee. Physical, cognitive, social, and emotional maturity should be taken into account.

• Observe and assess players independently before discussing evaluations with other selectors to avoid bias.

• Ensure all selection materials, discussions, and meetings remain confidential to the Selection Panel and relevant committee members.

• Avoid bias toward coach allocation when selecting players for teams.

• Reserve the right to adjust game timings and player positions based on observations during games.

• During trials and selections, selectors use a scoring system based on the key fundamentals of netball. This approach helps ensure the process is fair, consistent, and focused on the core skills that make a strong netball player.

Netball Fundamentals – Selection Score Sheet (1–3 Scale)

Scoring Key:

1 – Developing: Rarely demonstrates the skill; needs improvement

2 – Consistent / Meets Expectations: Demonstrates skill with some consistency

3 – Proficient / Exceeds Expectations: Consistently and effectively demonstrates the skill

Fundamentals and Descriptions:

Core Qualities

• Footwork & Balance - Correct landing, pivoting, and control when changing direction.
• Ball Handling - Passing and catching accuracy, and control under pressure.
  
• Spatial Awareness - Ability to find space, use the court effectively, and position themselves well.
  
• Timing & Movement - Dodges, leads, ability to lose a defender or intercept cleanly.

Attacking Qualities

• Decision Making - Chooses smart passes, reads the play, and adjusts based on defenders.
• Work Rate / Effort - Hustles, gives consistent effort, and chases loose balls.
• Communication - Calls for the ball, works with teammates, and gives clear instructions.
• Shooting (if applicable) - Shooting technique, accuracy, and positioning in the goal circle.

Defensive Qualities

• Defensive Skills - Marking the ball/player, intercepting, and applying pressure on passes.
  
• Spatial Awareness (Defensive) – Court positioning and reading attacking play
• Timing & Movement (Defensive) – Ability to contest and intercept cleanly

Personal Qualities

• Attitude & Coachability - Listens to instructions, adapts to feedback, and maintains a positive mindset.
• Work Rate / Effort  - Consistent intensity and effort level
• Communication & Teamwork  - Encourages teammates and contributes positively

Selection Decision:

The Selection Panel’s decision will be made by general consensus or majority vote. If there is no majority, the Selection Lead will have the final vote. 

Team Announcement / Acceptance:

• West Melton Netball Club aims to release team announcements via email within 72 hours following the completion of trials, where practicable.

• Players must confirm their acceptance of their team position within 48 hours of the announcement.

• If any players decline their position or choose not to play for West Melton Netball Club, the Selection Panel will reconvene to review and adjust the team formation.

• West Melton Netball Club aims to complete and communicate revised team selections within 72 hours after the 48-hour confirmation period, where practicable.

Requesting Feedback:

Players who wish to receive feedback regarding their selection outcome may do so by submitting a written request to the Selection Panel within 48 hours of the final team announcement. Feedback will be provided in a constructive and respectful manner, focusing on areas of strength and opportunities for development. All feedback will be given by a designated selector, senior coach and will remain confidential between the player and selectors.

Selection Disputes:

If a player (or parent/guardian) has concerns about team selection, they should first speak with the Selection Panel Coordinator within 48 hours of the announcement. If still unresolved, a written dispute must be submitted to the Club President within 5 days by emailing westmeltonnetball@gmail.com — verbal disputes will not be considered.

The President will review the matter with the relevant selectors and Coaching Convenor, taking into account the selection criteria and feedback. A written response will be provided within 7 days. All parties are expected to remain respectful throughout the process.

Please note that selectors may, at times, be required to make extremely difficult decisions, and the selection panel must exercise its discretion and judgement when finalising teams. Providing the selection panel has properly considered the criteria and considerations set out in this policy and has exercised discretion and judgement in good faith, the panel will be deemed to have fulfilled all its obligations under this policy.

Selection Policy for Social and Masters Teams

Objectives:

To form teams to enter the Selwyn Netball Social and Masters Competitions, where the club provides a supportive environment for players who wish to play netball for enjoyment, fitness, and the social aspect of the game. Social teams play on Saturdays, while Masters teams play on Thursday evenings.

Selection Policy:

• All players must be financial members of the club.

• Players must register on the club website (www.sporty.co.nz/westmeltonnetball).

• Social teams are for players aged 18 and above and can have up to 12 players registered at any one time.

• Masters teams are for players aged 25 and above and can have up to 12 players registered at any one time.

• No trials are held for Social or Masters teams. Instead, players will be selected by mutual agreement among the team members. This process ensures a collaborative and inclusive approach to team formation.

• Social and Masters teams select players in consultation with all team members. This process must be transparent and based on mutual agreement.

• If players do not have existing team connections, they are encouraged to email westmeltonnetball@gmail.com to express interest in joining a Social or Masters team. The club will assist in connecting these players with available teams.

Team Selection Criteria:

• Social teams play on Saturdays, and Masters teams play on Thursday evenings.

• Players are not expected to train regularly, but the club provides facilities if teams wish to train on outdoor courts.

• Social and Masters players are not expected to be available for matches every week, but players should consider if there is someone to cover their position when unavailable.

• Players should provide the team organiser with plenty of notice if they are going to be unavailable.

• Social and Masters teams must provide their own umpire every week.

• Players must assist with club fundraising.

• Players may be asked to play in a higher team if needed.

• Players must adhere to the West Melton Netball Club policies and procedures

futureFERNS – Year 1/2 Netball

• Format: Non-competitive 4-a-side

• Focus: Introducing netball to 5- and 6-year-olds with emphasis on fundamental skills, fun activities, and a safe environment. Encourages playing with friends and meeting new peers.

• Team Selection: No trials. Players are placed into teams by the West Melton Netball Club Year 1-4 Junior Netball Co-ordinator and Registrations Co-ordinator based on age, school year, friendships, team balance, and other registration information.

futureFERNS – Year 3/4 Netball

• Format: Non-competitive 5-a-side

• Focus: Fast-paced, fun gameplay with modified equipment and fewer players to simplify the game and maximize participation.

• Team Selection: No trials. Players are placed into teams by the West Melton Netball Club  Year 1-4 Junior Netball Co-ordinator and Registrations Co-ordinator based on age, school year, friendships, team balance, and other details from the registration form.

Continuous Development and Feedback:

The club is committed to the ongoing review and improvement of the selection process. Feedback from players, coaches, and selectors will be regularly sought to ensure that the process remains fair, transparent, and aligned with the club’s values. This feedback will be used to refine the selection process and maintain a positive, player-focused environment. The selection policy will be reviewed annually, and any necessary adjustments will be made to enhance fairness and inclusivity.