Radical rules changes tipped for Super Netball this season

THIS year’s Super Netball season is almost certain to adopt key rule changes, including a radical points system.

Adelaide Thunderbirds’ vice-captain Chelsea Pitman in control. Picture: Tom Huntley

NETBALL Australia is believed to be planning to adopt a radical points system for the Super Netball season starting next week.

Teams will earn four points for a victory and two for a draw, but the most dramatic feature of the new system is clubs being awarded a point for every quarter they win.

There will also be a bonus point on offer if teams are beaten by five goals or less.

Should a team win the game as well as every quarter, they will pocket a whopping eight points.

A team could lose a game yet earn four points if they win three quarters and get within five goals, with the winning team getting five.

Another rule change set to be introduced this season is coaches being allowed to coach from the sideline, similar to what happens in basketball.

Adelaide Thunderbirds coach Dan Ryan will be able to chat with his players near the sideline while the ball is at the other end of the court.

And the breaks between quarters are expected to be extended.

The season kicks off on April 28 with a derby when Melbourne Vixens host Collingwood Magpies at Hisense Arena.

The Thunderbirds open their season against West Coast Fever at their Mile End home the following day.

Last season, the Thunderbirds won just one game and that was in the first round when they retrieved a hefty deficit to run down the Fever at home.

The Thunderbirds are at home for their second game as well, facing last year’s runner-up Giants Netball.

Sunshine Coast Lightning will start their title defence in Sydney in a rematch of last year’s grand final.