Throughout this term we have been performing and analyzing particular tests (such as agility, strength, endurance, balance, co-ordination etc) to determine our fitness type and hence, be able to find my most suited Netball position. After participating in each of these tests I considered the strengths and weaknesses in my fitness, and determined where I excelled and where I can improve.
From my results (figure one) I came to the conclusion that I am most suited to wing defense (WD), as I have excellent reach which is vital for defending the wing attack (WA). WD also requires a lot balance but does not need extreme endurance or speed. Gomammoth.com gives an explanation of what every position needs. My standing long jump scored above average which is advantageous when intercepting the ball. Netball is a demanding sport that uses all energy systems (Creatine
Phosphate, Lactic acid and Aerobic) to some degree in each position. Netball requires a person to have a number of ranging skills and is not only a physical game, but is also tactical. By considering the test results completed throughout the term I concluded that endurance and strength are the two components I need to work on to enhance my game and everyones around me.
Working on my weaker fitness components will allow me to exert myself to a overall higher standard. I did not do well in the endurance test, and as a WD I will need to improve my endurance as it is critical for this position. WD does not run as much as C, however it still is an onerous position and is often underestimated. “Endurance is essential if you want to maintain your pace for the whole game.” (bodyandsoul.com, 2014). Endurance/aerobic fitness is essential in most sports. It is usually what separates the good players from the best players purely as endurance gives you an edge towards the end. When fatigue sets in, thought processes become more arduous and since netball is a mental game as well, those who can think clearer are more likely to make less mistakes.“The types of endurance are aerobic endurance, anaerobic endurance, speed endurance and strength endurance.” (Brianmac.co, 2013). All types of endurance are used in netball and by working on each of them I can lift my game immensely. WD needs to apply pressure on the WA around the goal circle to draw the shooters out of the circle, so they can not score. Working on my endurance will enable me to keep up with the WA as well as allowing me to drop back occasionally to help defend the goal third. WD also needs good reflexes, ball control and to be able to read the game. The WD is often used as a backup when the ball is at their attacking end, so you need endurance to be able to keep alert and play at your full potential for the duration of the game. Highintensity interval running is a great way to train for endurance, an hence netball, as it consists short sprints with little recovery times. High interval training also builds up aerobic and anaerobic energy levels. By improving my endurance, my overall game play will be enhanced because I will not become as fatigued, and therefore, will not make as many mistakes. Working on my weaker fitness components will not only be lifting myself as a player, but the entire team.
By working on my weak points I will be able to enhance mine and the teams game. A defender requires strength to be able to keep their opponent where they want them and to snatch the ball out of the oppositions grasp. The push ups test is to assess strength. My results for this particular test was below average, so I need to improve my strength.“Force the WA into corners and keep her there, keep her off the circle when she needs to feed and force her towards the sidelines and as far up court as possible during center passes” (Colleen McLean. 2001) The WD has to work hard and does a lot of pushing around to keep the WA away from the ball. If you lack strength as a player, or
the WA is stronger than you, it will be difficult for you to
