Super Netball 2020: Coaches agree best use of rolling subs could determine fate
The controversial super shot rule may have been all the talk in the opening two rounds of the Super Netball season, but two games in three days is about to bring the other big change into the spotlight.
Vixens
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The controversial super shot rule may have been all the talk in the opening two rounds of the Super Netball season, but two games in three days is about to bring the other big change into the spotlight.
The tactical nous of all eight Super Netball coaches is set to be tested as the condensed season hits express mode and rolling substitutions become a key weapon in their arsenal.
Breaks as little as 48 hours between weekend and midweek games have put the season on fast forward and management of players will be crucial for teams looking to come out of the speed zone in best shape.
The three-month delay to the season caused by COVID-19 ensured most teams were more prepared for a season then ever before, and they’ll need to be.
Rolling substitutions have been introduced this season – allowing unlimited player injections during play as well as at stoppages and quarter breaks – and coaches agree that mastering the new rule could be the difference between season success and failure.
Vixens coach Simone McKinnis was able to rest midcourt stars Kate Moloney and Liz Watson for a full quarter each in Melbourne’s 78-50 win over the Firebirds in Brisbane on Saturday in the lead-up to their next clash against the Lightning just 72 hours later on Wednesday.
“I quite enjoy the rolling sub (rule) because it is an opportunity, it’s quite easy to get players on or to make those changes,” McKinnis said.
“But it’s important to use each game and every opportunity we have to build the depth and the confidence across the squad because that’s what’s going to get a team through this season as it looks.”
Another huge weekend in the books!
— Suncorp Super Netball (@SuperNetball) August 9, 2020
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​How's your team tracking after two rounds? pic.twitter.com/NkcoAKmYXl
Sunshine Coast coach Kylee Byrne used the rolling sub to inject Steph Wood into the Lightning’s match against the Magpies on Sunday, knowing if the gun shooter’s knee injury did not stand up she could quickly swap her out of the game again.
“I think this year having the condensed season and midweek games means that you’ve got to be really smart with it,” Byrne said.
Giants defender Sam Poolman said teams were still adjusting to the rule though.
“With COVID and the break and then coming back into training for six or eight weeks, it’s hard to practise swapping subs,” she said.
“It’s a bit of pressure on the coach when to make those subs, but I think as a player, you just have to be ready because I think it’s shown in Super Netball that a coach will throw you in at any minute of the game or take you off at any minute, so you have to be switched on.”
Originally published as Super Netball 2020: Coaches agree best use of rolling subs could determine fate