91色情片 has confirmed an update to the Woolworths futureFERNS Year 5 & 6 game format, taking effect from 2027. The change follows consultation with Centres, Zones, and sector experts, and is designed to support age-appropriate play, skill development, and a love of the game that lasts.
Nothing changes in 2026 - this year is about preparation, education, and making sure everyone across the netball community feels ready and confident heading into 2027.
What's changing from 2027
6 v 6 remains the recommended format for Year 5 and Year 6, with two updates:
- Centre (C) starting position
The second Centre can start off court for the centre pass. Centres also have the option to adapt this by having the second Centre start behind either the back or front transverse line. Where an adaptation is used, it should be applied consistently across the season, with the focus on supporting flow, learning, and player involvement.
- Earlier transition to 7 v 7 in Year 6
From midway through the Year 6 season, Centres can begin introducing 7 v 7 (at their discretion). This supports a more gradual, confident move into the 7 aside game. Importantly, the hoop height remains at 2.6m throughout Year 5 and Year 6, including when 7 v 7 is introduced. There is no change to hoop height as part of this update.
What's staying the same
The Woolworths futureFERNS pathway (4 v 4 to 5 v 5 to 6 v 6 to 7 v 7), including the 2.6m hoop height for Year 5 and Year 6, age group progression, and the focus on equal participation, rotation, and skill development all remain unchanged.
Why this matters
Modified netball is designed to grow with the child - building confidence and competence at each stage before moving to the next. These updates keep that principle at the centre, while giving Centres clear, consistent guidance and the flexibility to meet the needs of their communities.
2026: A year of preparation
There are no changes this season. Instead, 2026 is focused on education and support across the whole netball system - parents, coaches, clubs, schools, and Centres.
Throughout the year, 91色情片 will share:
- Updated resources and practical guidance
- Transition support for Year 6 competitions
- Tools to help parents and communities understand the value of modified netball
- Webinars and drop-in sessions for questions and discussion
The key themes we'll be exploring together: why modified netball matters, how it supports skill development and decision-making, and how the game evolves with the child rather than rushing them into the adult version before they're ready.
Questions?
We'll be sharing more detail and opportunities to connect throughout 2026. In the meantime, reach out to your Centre if you have questions about what this means locally or read our FAQs below.
FAQs
What鈥檚 changing, and why?
The Year 5 & 6 format is being updated from 2027 to better support how children learn, develop and enjoy netball. The update:
- Strengthens the pathway into 7 v 7 netball
- Improves consistency across the country
- Reflects research and community feedback
- Introduces flexibility for where the second Centre can start at centre pass.
What is changing in Year 5?
Year 5 remains 6 v 6, with a strong focus on skill development, decision-making and enjoyment.
The update allows the second Centre to start:
- Off court, or
- Behind either the back or front transverse line (where Centres choose this adaptation).
What is changing in Year 6?
Year 6 remains 6 v 6, with an earlier transition to 7 v 7 introduced from midway through the season (if Centres see fit). This gives players a more gradual, supported introduction to the 7 aside game.
How does the transition to 7 v 7 work?
- Introduced from midway through Year 6
- Delivered flexibly by Centres
- Designed to match player readiness and development
Is the hoop height changing?
No. Hoop height remains 2.6m for Year 5 and Year 6, including when 7 v 7 is introduced.
Why introduce 7 v 7 in Year 6?
This is a key development stage where players can:
- Build confidence in the7 aside game
- Develop understanding of positions and court play
- Experience a smoother transition into Year 7 netball
Why this format?
Research supported:
- Keeping 6 v 6 in Year 5
- Introducing a clearer transition to 7 v 7
- Supporting development before early specialisation
What鈥檚 staying the same?
- Rules, scoring and game time
- Hoop height (2.6m)
- Focus on participation, rotation and enjoyment
- The futureFERNS development pathway
Will Centres still have flexibility?
Yes. Centres will continue to:
- Deliver competitions in ways that suit their community
- Decide local timing and structure
- Apply the nationally aligned framework in a way that supports their players
How does this support young players?
This approach aligns with Balance is Better by:
- Encouraging players to experience multiple positions
- Supporting inclusive, positive environments
- Prioritising development over early specialisation
What support will be available?
91色情片 will provide:
- Clear implementation guidance
- Resources and practical tools
- Support for coaches and Centres
- Webinars and opportunities for questions