What is the footwork rule in netball?
B · Beginner · Playing the ball · 5 of 8Checked 15 October 2026
A player who catches the ball has a landing foot. They may step with the other foot, pivot on the landing foot or jump, but must pass or shoot before the landing foot touches down again. Dragging the landing foot or hopping is not allowed. The sanction is a free pass.
How it works
- Landing foot: first foot down, or the one not moved first.
- Other foot: may step.
- Pivot: on the landing foot.
- Jump: allowed, but release first.
- Regrounding: not before release.
- Drag or slide: not allowed.
- Hop: not allowed.
- Sanction: free pass.
The glossary has the footwork, the landing foot, the pivot, the held ball, the possession and the free pass.
Tricky cases
A player lands on both feet. Which is the landing foot?
The one not moved first.
Can a player step, then jump to pass?
Yes, if the ball goes before the landing foot comes down.
Does footwork apply to shooters?
Yes.
Can a player pivot more than once?
Yes, on the same landing foot.
Why the rule exists
Footwork stops players running with the ball, the heart of netball.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| One-foot landing | First foot | L 13.1 |
| Two-foot landing | Foot not moved | L 13.2 |
| Breach | Free pass | L 13.3 |
From the rule book
World Netball, Rules of Netball (2024), Rule 13 and the definitions. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: World Netball Rules of Netball 2024.