Following the mid-season hiatus, taking place during the 2019 Netball World Cup, Suncorp Super Netball clubs can begin approaching athletes with contracts set to expire at the completion of the 2019 season but cannot officially sign these athletes until the official Suncorp Super Netball signing period – 16 September (day after Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final) to 14 October 2019.
The new league rules also specify that, from 1 March 2019, clubs have the exclusive right to re-sign any of their existing athletes to become one of their 10 contracted final squad players for the 2020 or 2021 seasons.
“…we’re always looking at ways to ensure fans are being exposed to the best product possible, whether that’s in-stadium or via broadcast.”
From 1 March, clubs may also sign any athlete who is not currently contracted to another team, either as a final squad member, replacement player or training partner.
Netball Australia Executive General Manager Chris Symington says the rule changes will contribute to the ongoing evolution and competitive balance of the Suncorp Super Netball league.
“The Competition Committee consulted widely with the game’s key stakeholders and there was an overwhelming agreement that a change in the parameters and timing around player contract discussions was a positive step forward,” he said.
“The other rule modifications for this year demonstrate the constant evolution of the Suncorp Super Netball league – we’re always looking at ways to ensure fans are being exposed to the best product possible, whether that’s in-stadium or via broadcast.”
Other Suncorp Super Netball rule changes approved by the Netball Australia board include:
LADDER EVOLUTION
If two teams finish the regular season on the same number of points, their final position on the ladder will be determined by the number of wins and not percentage. If teams are tied on points and number of wins are equal, then goal percentages during the home and away rounds will be used to determine the rank.
TEAM BENCH IN-MATCH ENGAGEMENT
During the 2019 season, there will be capacity for players to be more actively involved from the bench area with multiple players being allowed to stand and move within the bench area.
A designated area for coaches to enter the ‘run-off zone’ of the court will be trialled during the Suncorp #TeamGirls Cup pre-season tournament taking place in Brisbane from 8-10 March.
ROLLING SUBSTITUTIONS
(This rule will only be in place for the Suncorp #TeamGirls Cup and the Deakin University Australia Netball League)
Substitutions may be made during play (as well as during stoppages and intervals). There is no limit to the number that can be made, and more than one substitution may be made at any time. Play will not be held for a substitution to be made.
