An Analysis of Shooting in Fastnet

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to conduct an analysis of shooting in Fastnet; the modified version of netball. The study aimed to find out which area is the most effective to shoot from in fastnet, whether technique is influenced by distance and finally if players take advantage of the new shooting rules, especially during power plays. A computerised system was used to collect data from 9 fastnet matches from the 2011 World Series of Netball. The system collected information regarding; player, technique, area, outcome and power play. Once the data had been collected, a Kruskal-Wallis test was run using SPSS to determine if there were any significant differences between technique and distance. The results found that 'inner 1' was the most effective area to shoot from, closely followed by 'inner 3'. Further results proved that there were no significant differences for technique and distance, possibly due to the wide sample of players that each has a preferred technique; in spite of distance. It was also examined, that the idea of match effects such as defence and fatigue could also change the technique player’s use when shooting. Finally, results found that more shots were taken from outside the circle during power play quarters, but still only a low percentage in comparison to the amount of shots taken in the quarter. In light of this, rules changes had been made for the latest World Series Netball Tournament, involving higher scoring possibilities and fewer players on court, which is referred to as 'Fast5' (IFNA, 2011). Although, earlier changes such as shorter games and rolling substitutions are still included. Overall, by altering the original game of netball it hopes to become more entertaining to watch, creating more challenges for the players; eventually gaining a place in the Olympic Games.