Boost Your Netball Shooting Accuracy: 5 Proven Drills Every Coach Should Use

A good shot can win a match, but most of us have spent more time chasing the ball than actually putting it in the net. With the season in full swing, a few focused drills can turn those missed chances into reliable points. Below are five drills I use with my club teams at Netball Nexus – simple, effective, and easy to fit into any practice.

1. The Spot‑Shot Routine

What it is

Players stand at a fixed spot – usually the goal circle’s 3‑meter line – and take a set number of shots without moving. The goal is to hit a target percentage, say 80%, before moving on.

Why it works

Repeating the same motion from the same place builds muscle memory. When the body knows exactly where the ball should leave the hand, the brain can focus on reading the defence instead of worrying about technique.

How to run it

1. Pick a spot that matches the most common shooting position for your team.
2. Have each player line up with a ball and a partner to retrieve missed shots.
3. Set a timer for 2 minutes. The player shoots as many times as possible, counting makes.
4. Record the number and aim for a 5‑point improvement each session.

Coach tip

Add a small “target” – a piece of tape or a cone – inside the goal. Hitting the target counts as a bonus point. It adds a fun challenge and forces players to aim a little higher, which often improves overall accuracy.

2. The Moving‑Circle Drill

What it is

Players start outside the goal circle, run into it, receive a pass, and shoot on the move. The drill mimics the quick footwork needed when a defender closes in.

Why it works

Shooting while moving trains the body to stay balanced and keep the shooting arm steady. It also teaches players to time their jump and release under pressure.

How to run it

1. Set up a line of cones about 5 meters from the goal circle.
2. Player A starts at the first cone, sprints to the circle, receives a pass from Player B, and shoots.
3. After the shot, Player A jogs back and joins the end of the line.
4. Rotate after 10 shots each.

Coach tip

If you have a taller player, let them act as a “screen” for the shooter. It adds realism and helps younger players learn how to use teammates to create space.

3. The One‑Hand Finish

What it is

Players practice shooting using only their dominant hand, while the other hand stays on the hip or behind the back.

Why it works

Many players rely on both hands for stability, which can slow the release. Training the one‑hand finish forces the shooter to use core strength and proper wrist snap, leading to quicker, cleaner shots.

How to run it

1. Place a line of balls at the edge of the goal circle.
2. Each player steps up, picks a ball, and shoots using only the dominant hand.
3. Count makes and misses, then repeat from a slightly different angle.

Coach tip

Start with a short distance (the 2‑meter line) and gradually move back to the 3‑meter line as confidence grows. Celebrate each make with a quick high‑five – it builds a positive vibe.

4. The “Pressure Cooker” Game

What it is

A short, timed game where players must score a set number of goals within a limited period, while defenders try to block or intercept.

Why it works

Real matches are full of pressure. This drill forces shooters to stay calm, focus on their routine, and make quick decisions.

How to run it

1. Split the team into two groups: shooters and defenders.
2. Set a timer for 3 minutes. Shooters must score 8 goals before time runs out.
3. Defenders rotate every minute to keep the challenge fresh.
4. If shooters succeed, they earn a small reward (extra water break, a funny hat, etc.).

Coach tip

Keep the atmosphere light. If a shooter misses, let the defender give a quick “good try” and move on. The goal is to simulate pressure, not to shame anyone.

5. The Visualisation Walk

What it is

Before shooting, players take a slow walk around the goal circle, close their eyes, and picture a perfect shot – the ball leaving the hand, the arc, the net swishing.

Why it works

The brain often rehearses movements before the body does them. Visualising a successful shot can boost confidence and improve actual performance.

How to run it

1. After a warm‑up, gather the shooters in a circle.
2. Ask each player to close their eyes, breathe deep, and imagine their best shot.
3. After 30 seconds, open eyes and take a real shot from the same spot.
4. Repeat three times, encouraging players to add small details (the sound of the net, the feel of the ball).

Coach tip

Do this drill on a quiet day or after a tough practice. It helps reset the mind and can turn a shaky shooter into a calm finisher.

Putting It All Together

These five drills cover the basics: consistency, movement, strength, pressure, and mindset. I like to rotate them through the week so players never get bored and each skill gets reinforced. A typical practice at Netball Nexus might look like this:

• Warm‑up and dynamic stretches (10 minutes)
• Spot‑Shot Routine (15 minutes)
• Moving‑Circle Drill (15 minutes)
• One‑Hand Finish (10 minutes)
• Short break, water, and a quick chat about the upcoming game (5 minutes)
• Pressure Cooker Game (15 minutes)
• Visualisation Walk (5 minutes)
• Cool‑down and team talk (10 minutes)

When you keep the sessions varied and purposeful, players stay engaged and improvement shows up on the scoreboard. Try these drills with your squad, watch the numbers climb, and enjoy the confidence that comes with a reliable shot.