What's the difference between a free pass, a penalty pass and a throw-in?
Rule- South Africa
- Netball South Africa
- World Netball Rules 2024
- Senior
- 2026
- Umpires
World Netball Rule 6:
| Sanction or action | Awarded for | Taken from |
|---|---|---|
| Free pass | Minor infringements | Where the infringement happened |
| Penalty pass | Major infringements (obstruction, contact, foul play) | Where the infringer was standing, unless that disadvantages the non-infringing team (then where the infringed player was) |
| Throw-in | Ball out of court | Where the ball went out |
| Possession | Simultaneous or mutual infringements and some other cases | Where the ball was when play stopped |
Key conditions:
- Any player allowed in that area may take it, from the spot you indicate.
- Free pass: the taker may not shoot. If they do, it's a free pass the other way and no goal.
- Penalty pass: the infringer must stand out of play: move quickly to where you indicate, beside but away from the taker, and take no part (including talking) until the ball is released. If not, award a further penalty pass, which may be advanced.
- A GS or GA taking a penalty pass in the goal circle may pass or shoot.
- A correctly placed player may take a penalty pass straight away, before it's set. You may call "taken" sparingly to make that clear. The infringer still can't take part until the ball is released.
- If the infringer is substituted or changes position, whoever takes their position stands out.
Added 22 Oct 2026