Training & Player Development

Coaching sessions at Hitchin Netball Club take place on Tuesday evenings during term time at The Priory School, Hitchin.

 

Minis Training

Our Minis sessions are designed for our youngest members in Years 3 to 5. These sessions introduce the fundamentals of netball in a fun, supportive, and engaging environment, helping players build confidence while learning core skills.

 

Juniors Training

Juniors training is for players in Years 6 to 9. Players usually train within their own year group, although particularly talented players may be invited to train with an older group where appropriate.

 

Youth Squad Training

Youth squad training is aimed at players in Years 10 to 13, with a focus on developing advanced technical skills, tactical understanding, and effective team play.

 

Coaching & Fitness Development

Our coaching sessions are designed to develop players’ skills, understanding of the game, and overall fitness in a supportive and engaging environment. Each session includes targeted drills focusing on key netball techniques such as passing, shooting, footwork, catching, dodging, pivoting, and movement. When performed at intensity, these drills naturally enhance aerobic fitness.

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A netball match typically lasts 40–60 minutes, depending on the league, and is played in four quarters with short rest breaks. To maintain performance throughout a game, strong aerobic fitness is essential. Our training therefore incorporates interval training, speed work, circuit exercises, and game-specific drills to build cardiovascular endurance alongside on-court skills.

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Training & Progression to Match Play

Once players are settled into training and ready for match play, we offer a wide range of opportunities across all year groups. We recognise that competitive play is essential for skill development, which is why the Club enters teams into various leagues and tournaments throughout the season. We also arrange friendly matches, including during training sessions, allowing players who may not be able to commit to regular league fixtures the chance to experience competitive play. This ensures players are introduced to match play at the right time, supporting their development, confidence, and enjoyment of the game.

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Inclusivity & Player Pathways

Hitchin Netball Club is an inclusive club where players of all abilities are welcome. At the same time, we support talented players who wish to progress to higher levels of competition. Some of our players also train with Hertfordshire County Netball, the Mavericks Superleague Futures Programme and local development squads.

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With over 200 young players, we are incredibly proud of our training programme. Our dedicated coaches and helpers work hard to deliver engaging, high-quality sessions — and most importantly, we believe netball should be fun for everyone.