Centre (C)
The C position in netball
Link attack and defence. Run the floor, take the centre pass, set the tempo.
Everywhere except both shooting circles
Where C can move
Where C can move
Where C can move
Coloured zones show the thirds and circles C is allowed into. Cross the line and the umpire calls offside — so footwork around the third lines is a core skill.
Allowed: Everywhere except both shooting circles
Drills
- 01
Box-to-box run
Receive at the back line, sprint to the opposite circle edge, receive again. 10× both ways.
~15 min
- 02
Centre-pass options
Practise 5 different first-phase moves until each is automatic.
~20 min
- 03
Transition turnover
After every shot, sprint to the next phase. 10-minute continuous game.
Fitness tips
VO2 max intervals
4× 4-minute hard runs with 3-minute recovery. Centres need the biggest engine on court.
Lateral strength
Side lunges, lateral band walks. You change direction more than anyone.
Recovery routine
Mobility flow + foam rolling daily. Cumulative load is your enemy.
Famous players
- C
Laura Malcolm
Energetic, two-way Centre — England's midfield engine.
- C
Imogen Allison
Plays through Centre with composure and quick decision-making.
Centre (C) FAQ
The questions players, parents and new fans ask about the C position in netball.
- Link attack and defence. Run the floor, take the centre pass, set the tempo. The C is allowed in everywhere except both shooting circles, and crossing those lines is called offside.
- The Centre (C) can move in everywhere except both shooting circles. Any other third or circle is out of bounds for this position.
- No. Only Goal Shooter (GS) and Goal Attack (GA) can score. The C sets up attacks or defends instead.
- Laura Malcolm is one of the most recognised England Roses C players — see more on the Centre guide.
- Engine of the team. The C role rewards players with the mindset and movement described above — start with the drills on this page.
›What does a Centre (C) do in netball?
›Where can the C go on a netball court?
›Can the C score goals in netball?
›Who is a famous England Roses C?
›What kind of player suits Centre?
Find a club to play C
Search hundreds of UK clubs by postcode, region or age — most have spots open for Centre players.