Netball began in the late 1800s as a modified version of basketball, created mainly for women. Over time, it developed its own rules, court layout, and identity, eventually becoming a global sport played professionally across multiple continents.
What started as a simple school activity has evolved into a highly organized international sport. This article explains where netball came from, how it changed over time, and how it became the game we know today.
The origin of netball (where it all started)
The story of netball begins in 1891, when basketball was invented in the United States. Soon after, educators wanted a less physical version of basketball that could be safely played by women.
Early problem:
- Basketball involved running, dribbling, and physical contact
- At the time, this was considered unsuitable for women’s physical education
So teachers began modifying the game:
- Less running
- Less contact
- More passing
- Controlled movement
This modified game slowly became what we now call netball.
How netball was first played
In the early days, netball looked very different:
- Played outdoors
- Players stood in fixed areas
- No dribbling
- Emphasis on passing and teamwork
- Goals had no backboards
These early changes were not accidental — they were designed to make the game:
- Safer
- More structured
- Easier to manage in schools
Netball’s early development in England
The biggest step in netball’s history happened in England.
British schools adopted the modified game and formalized the rules, giving netball its own identity separate from basketball. This is why England is often credited with shaping modern netball rules.
By the early 1900s:
- Netball was widely played in girls’ schools
- Rules were becoming standardized
- The game spread rapidly across the British Empire
Global spread of netball
As the British education system expanded, netball spread to:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- Caribbean nations
- Parts of Asia and Africa
Each region helped refine the game, but the core rules remained the same:
- Seven players
- Fixed positions
- Limited contact
- Passing-based gameplay
This consistency helped netball grow internationally.
Read More About: What Is Netball? A Beginner’s Guide to the Netball Sport & Game
Evolution of netball rules (why the game changed)
Netball did not remain static. Over time, rules were updated to make the game:
- Faster
- Fairer
- More exciting to watch
Key rule evolutions:
- Clear definition of player positions
- Introduction of umpires and officials
- Standardized court markings
- Better enforcement of contact and obstruction rules
These changes transformed netball from a school activity into a competitive sport.
Formation of international governance
To manage global growth, international coordination became necessary.
This led to the creation of a global governing structure, now represented by World Netball, which:
- Oversees international competitions
- Maintains official rules
- Supports global development
This step was crucial in making netball a recognized international sport.
Netball becomes a competitive international sport
By the mid-20th century:
- National teams were forming
- International matches were being played
- Training, fitness, and tactics improved
Netball was no longer just a school sport — it became a serious competitive discipline, especially in:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- England
The Netball World Cup era
The introduction of the Netball World Cup marked a turning point.
It:
- Increased global visibility
- Encouraged professionalism
- Helped standardize rules worldwide
Top nations began investing in:
- Coaching systems
- Player development
- Youth academies
Modern professional netball
Today, netball is:
- Played in professional leagues
- Broadcast internationally
- Supported by sponsorships and media coverage
Modern netball emphasizes:
- Speed and agility
- Tactical movement
- High fitness levels
- Professional officiating
The sport has moved far beyond its educational origins.
Timeline: Key milestones in netball history
📌 Netball history timeline
- 1891 – Basketball invented
- 1890s – Modified basketball used for women
- Early 1900s – Netball rules formalized in England
- 1920s–1930s – Netball spreads globally
- 1960s – International governance established
- 1963 – First Netball World Cup
- Late 1900s – Growth of international competition
- 2000s–Present – Professional leagues and global expansion
Why netball’s history matters today
Understanding netball’s history explains:
- Why positions are restricted
- Why passing matters more than running
- Why the game is structured and tactical
Netball was designed with purpose, not by accident. Every rule reflects its evolution.
Final thoughts on the history of netball
The history of netball is the story of adaptation and growth. What began as a modified school game became a global sport built on strategy, discipline, and teamwork.
Netball’s journey from basketball’s shadow to its own independent identity is what makes it unique — and why millions of players continue to love the game today.
Netball was created in the late 1890s after basketball was invented in 1891. It started as a modified version of basketball designed mainly for women.
Netball was invented to create a safer and more structured sport with less physical contact, especially suitable for women and school environments.
Netball originated in England, where early educators formalized the rules and helped the game develop its own identity separate from basketball.
Netball spread through the British education system to countries like Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Caribbean nations.
Netball became an international sport in the mid-20th century, with global rule coordination and the first Netball World Cup held in 1963.
Modern netball is faster, more professional, and highly competitive, with standardized rules, professional leagues, trained umpires, and international tournaments.
Liam Thompson is a cricket regulations analyst who covers international and league-level rules in depth. He focuses on fielding laws, over-rate penalties, powerplay strategies, and updated ICC guidelines. Liam’s goal is to educate readers while keeping the excitement of the game alive.