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Training & Player Development

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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 6. 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 7 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 develop players' technical skills, tactical understanding and fitness in a supportive, enjoyable environment. Sessions include drills focusing on passing, shooting, footwork, catching, dodging, pivoting and movement, alongside conditioned games that encourage decision-making, teamwork and confidence on court.

Training also incorporates interval work, speed exercises and game-based conditioning to improve aerobic fitness and prepare players for match play. As players develop, sessions become progressively more challenging, helping them build resilience, game awareness and the physical fitness needed to perform consistently throughout a match.

Training & Progression to Match Play

Once players have developed the skills and confidence for match play, they have opportunities to represent the Club in leagues, tournaments and friendly fixtures. We introduce competition at an appropriate stage in each player's development, ensuring the experience remains positive, enjoyable and supportive.

Inclusivity & Player Pathways

Hitchin Netball Club welcomes players of all abilities. Whether you're completely new to netball or already competing at a high level, our coaching programme is designed to help every player develop at their own pace. We also support players who wish to progress to higher levels of competition, providing guidance and opportunities wherever possible. Some of our players also train with Hertfordshire County Netball, the Mavericks Superleague Futures Programme and local development squads.

With over 220 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.

2026–2027 Term Dates

​Autumn Term
8th September – 8th December
(half term 27th October)
 
Spring Term
5th January – 23rd March
(half term 16th February)

Summer Term
13th April – 29th June
(half term 25th May)

Day & Time


Tuesday evenings ~ term time

Minis: Years 3 to 6: 5:30 to 6:30 pm

Juniors: Years 7 to 9: 6:30 to 7:30 pm

Youth: Years 10 to 13: 7:30 to 8:30 pm​

General Preparation

Players should arrive ready to train:​
  • Wear HNC training kit (or comfortable sportswear and trainers for taster sessions)
  • Bring a full water bottle.
  • Bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket if the weather is cool or wet.
  • Remove all jewellery (including earrings), tie back long hair and ensure fingernails are kept short.

Unsafe weather conditions

Player safety comes first. If severe weather is expected, the Committee will assess conditions by 3:30 pm, using forecasts and conditions at the courts. Training will be cancelled if it's unsafe (e.g. heavy rain, lightning, freezing temperatures, or dangerous courts). Updates are shared via Year WhatsApp groups.

Club Fees

Club membership costs £200 per season, with annual, termly and monthly payment options available. Fees for players joining during the season are calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Location

Netball courts to the rear of: 
The Priory School
Bedford Road
Hitchin
SG5 2UR

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