Woolworths futureFERNS is Netball New Zealand’s official junior Netball programme for Year 1 - 8 children.
All Year 1 - 8 Teams are organised and entered by the players school. Please contact your school sports co ordinator for further information on joining a team.
Woolworths futureFERNS progresses players though modified formats of Netball that recognises their stage of physical and mental development. The aim is not only to grow their Netball abilities but also to help with their overall physical literacy which includes confidence, motivation, knowledge and understanding and physical competence.
To ignite a lifelong involvement in Netball, a sequential programme has been developed that is at the right level for the players at each stage. The emphasis is on fun activities conducted in a safe environment. Small sided games are the preferred training method and are proven to be the most appropriate way to enhance skill and tactical development.
Click on the age group logo below for more information
Please note the following format changes at Tauranga Netball Centre
- Year 6 play 7 aside netball along with Year 7 & 8
- All teams from Year 5 and over will have umpires controlling the court and game. Teams will not use rolling substitutes (as noted in Future Ferns Information) and players will need to call time for the umpire to stop the play and a play with injury or illness may leave the court and be replaced by another player.
Woolworths FutureFERNS is focused on enabling individuals to experience personal achievements and the benefits for the players and parents are:
Players
- FUN
- Development of sound fundamental Netball skills
- Participation in a safe learning environment
- Playing with their friends and meeting others
- Active physical involvement
- Lifelong love of Netball
Parents
- Reassurance that their child is participating in a NNZ endorsed programme
- Enhancement of the child’s social and fundamental skills
- Ability to share skills and knowledge with the Netball community
- Opportunity to learn more about Netball
- Opportunity to spend time with and play with their children
- Prospect to make new friends
- Value for money
Introduces Netball to 5-6 year olds. The aim is to develop fundamental movement and basic Netball skills. Playing 4 v 4 allows the players to pass, catch and shoot from day one.
Further information & resources can be found at https://www.futureferns.co.nz/futureferns/home.html
Year 3 & 4 is designed to be fast and fun, maximising participation and touches of the ball. With modified equipment and less players on the court, in 5 v 5 the game is less complicated.
Further information & resources can be found at https://www.futureferns.co.nz/futureferns/home.html
Watch this video to understand the game of 5 v 5 Netball
The 6 v 6 game is fast and provides players with lots of touches on the ball to enhance skill development and enjoyment. With only three positions on court it means the game is less complicated for children and easier for coaches to ensure the players learn the skills relevant to all and to provide them with equal opportunities.
NO ROLLING SUBSTITUES - PLAYERS WILL NEED TO CALL TIME TO LEAVE THE COURT
Further information & resources can be found at https://www.futureferns.co.nz/futureferns/home.html
Watch this video to understand the game of 6 v 6 Netball
Players have developed a considerable understanding of the game and are now playing 7 v 7. The emphasis is on converting fundamental movement and basic Netball skills to foundation Netball skills. Performance, challenge and playing are key motives for this age group. Ensuring positional rotation and playing at least half a game will give each player the opportunity to participate and develop.
NO ROLLING SUBSTITUES - PLAYERS WILL NEED TO CALL TIME TO LEAVE THE COURT
Further information & resources can be found at https://www.futureferns.co.nz/futureferns/home.html
