Technical Model

Technical model

The technical model is in the form of qualitative data which then is able to be analysed which then can be compared to an ideal model. From there, you can produce strengths and areas for improvement for the athlete performing the skill. It can show the differences and similarities on each component of the skill that is produced which will be used as a comparison on the model. This is done so then the athlete is able to have the correct information given to them to achieve the best results. As there are not numerical data, the data given can be classed as subjective due to the fact that most of the literature based reports are opinionated and depends on every athlete. In term of the technical model, it will give an outline for the correct technique like stance and form other than numerical components. I will be talking about the technical components of stance, balance, grip and body positioning

Stance

As a netball player, having a good enough stance is essential for the flow and direction of a shot. It allows a player to hold their ground and gives a foundation of power. Netball tactics (2012) state that a players “feet should be positioned forwards but no spaced too far apart. Also should have an even distribution of weight on both feet and hips should be facing forwards”. By having a stance of feet shoulder width apart, it gives them a balanced foundation to perform the shot. The player needs to be on the balls of their feet so they are in a ready position to go in for a rebound. This enables them to move faster.

In the picture above you can see that they have a perfect stance of standing with their feet shoulder width apart and is an ideal distance away from the post. This enables the player to have a greater amount of stability which then increases the flow and direction of the shot. As the player is in their starting position ready to go for the execution phase, we can see their heels are slightly raised off the floor and weight bearing in her toes. However her bent knees and elbows balance out the weight still providing a stable stance for the shot. She is maintaining a strong and tall structure, with a solid stance. This is a strength as this is exactly what she needs to do to be a successful netball player, without giving the opposition possession of the ball.

Balance

Balance is an important part within netball. It enables a player to have an even distribution of weight which keeps them upright and steady. Also it is a common occurrence that many players become unbalanced which results to them to perform footwork and lose possession of the ball. As this player is a goal attacker, they are required to transfer an even distribution of weight from their feet to their fingers when performing a netball shot. If this is done successfully then it can make the outcome of the skill be very effective. Therefore, the shot to ensure that the ball follows its intended path into the net. Whilst in a defensive position, they are required to mark their opponent so by maintaining a good balance for this then it enables being called up less time for obstruction. Also, with being a goal attacker, their main aim is dodge in the shooting third meaning they will need to have a high level of agility. Balance helps aid agility as they will need to be ready at all times to move and change direction. It is also an aid for aiming the shot into the net. Many players step forwards, backwards or to the side to take a shot if not placed in the correct position at the time. This means that they will be placed on one foot and have a lower centre of gravity so can become off balance.

In the frame above it shows the player in the execution phase of the netball shot. Their body is positioned upright with their weight distributed out through their body. By being balanced, it increases your centre of gravity creating an equilibrium. By returning from the preparation state she is able to keep her body contracted and keeping her spine in a position that is perpendicular to the ground which maintains balance more. As I analysed a shooter, she maintained the shot success and this was due to having maintained an upright position and balanced limbs working together which increased her aim of shots.

The image above shows a netballer for England, goal attacker Kadeen Corbin. She shows to have similar aspects of body positioning with the raised heels and arms at a similar degree of angle above the head. She is able to maintain her body shape whilst in the process of taking a shot. This means that they have similar spine placement, balance and a high centre of gravity which assists the success of a netball shot.

Grip

Grip is essential in order to perform a successful shot. The athlete must be able to be have a firm strong hand around the ball while positioned above the head ready for the release. By having a firm hand on the ball this allows you to control the direction of the ball. The recommended way to hold a netball ready for a netball shot is by placing the dominant hand under the ball and using the other hand for a support. Netball for Fun (2015) states that “Ball held by dominant hand and high above the head. Fingers point back and are slightly open, ball sits in your hand” and that “second hand is placed at the side of the ball to steady its position”. By using this model, I will be able to recommend pointers for my athlete technique in order to improve her shots.

In the frame above, you can see that the athlete produces a similar technique when holding the ball over her head. She holds the ball in her dominant hand with her fingertips under of the ball. The ball was cushioned correctly making no room for it to become off balanced in her hand. From this, she was able to perform a numerous amount of successful shots and this was due to having complete grip upon the ball when in the preparation and execution phase.

Body Position

Having the correct body position I netball is vital for receiving and releasing passes. It determines when the ball is placed and also the direction of it. If a player were to stand side on the net and perform a shot, it is very unlikely that the shot will go 100% in as the force from the body movements will end up going in the direction of where the body is positioned. This can reduce the overall performance of an athlete and leads to unsuccessful shots. In order for a successful shot, the body must be aligned and somewhat parallel to the target with their hips, feet and shoulders facing forwards. BBC Sport (2010) recommends that you should “Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and keep your body straight.” If there is any significant movement in the hips then this would hinder performance and the shot executed not get to the target intended. 

By using the recommended guild lines for body positioning at the net, I can use this to compare against my athlete’s technique. The athlete above is showing a similar technique with their hips, feet and shoulders facing forwards towards the net. Her knees are slightly bent but still are facing in the direction intended. By using a technique like this, it will improve her chances of a successful shot.