Hooked on Netball by Lisa Gibbs

Author:Lisa Gibbs
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Penguin Random House Australia
Published: 2015-10-14T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

‘Okay everyone,’ called Janet. ‘New skill to try today: throwing a pass on the run. That means you land on one foot, step onto the other foot, then release the ball before taking another step. Sienna and Isabella, I’d like you to demonstrate – I’ve seen you do this before.’

Sienna and Isabella grinned at each other and ran out in front of the other girls to show them what Janet meant.

‘Perfect,’ Janet said, after they successfully completed three passes. ‘So, girls, what you need to do is to move from your landing foot to your other foot and then release the ball. As long as your landing foot doesn’t touch the ground again while you’re still holding the ball, you won’t be pulled up for stepping.

‘I want you all to try this with a partner, up and down one of the courts. I’ll be watching to check you’ve got the right idea.’

Maddy grabbed a netball and ran to court two with Prani. Starting at one end, the two friends ran, flinging the ball at each other –

‘Slow down, Maddy and Prani,’ Janet called, moving towards them. ‘Just jog slowly so that you can concentrate on your passing and steps. Okay?’

So they reined in their enthusiasm and slowed to a gentle jog. Immediately, they found it easier to count their steps and direct their passes. They moved up and down the court, feeling more and more comfortable and confident with every minute that passed.

‘I think I really get this now!’ said Prani.

‘Me too,’ said Maddy, grinning.

Maddy and Prani were so intent on the drill that they didn’t notice that Janet was still watching their progress. When they reached the end of the court, Janet surprised them when she called out approvingly, ‘Keep it up!’

Maddy and Prani grinned at each other and kept up their practice, but as soon as Janet stepped away to watch some of the other players, Prani couldn’t help acting up. Maddy’s next pass didn’t make the distance and ended in a low bounce. Prani somehow managed to catch it between her knees, and she started waddling down the court.

Maddy burst out laughing. ‘You look like a penguin!’

‘Just smile and wave, boys. Just smile and wave,’ Prani responded, with a waddle and a wave.

Maddy was laughing so hard now that she felt like she might even wet her pants! Soon, all the girls, who had come over to see what was so funny, were waddling around the court like a bunch of penguins. Even Jade joined in!

Maddy looked around her and realised they’d become a team. Learning skills together was important, but laughing together was what made them feel like they belonged. Maddy grinned as she saw even shy Phoebe try the waddle.

Janet blew her whistle and called to the group. It was a funny-sounding blow, though, because Janet was laughing too.

‘Okay, okay, that’s enough. We have ten minutes left – enough time for a quick practice game. Let’s get moving!’

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