FAST5 is back!
World Netball and Netball New Zealand have announced that the FAST5 Netball World Series is returning to the international calendar, with New Zealand hosting the fast-paced tournament for the next three years, with Christchurch centre stage.
FAST5 netball is a modified version of the game featuring multiple-point shots, double-point power plays, five players-a-side, and shortened quarters. It can be more dynamic, as it features a few rule changes, and there are typically a lot of rolling subs due to the speed of the game and the area players need to cover.
Our Kiwi teams have carved a commanding legacy, winning the inaugural FAST5 Netball World Series in 2009 and holding the title seven times.
New Zealand last hosted the tournament in 2014 in Auckland, and this time around, six of the world’s top-ranked teams will play the condensed version of the game from 5-6 November in Ōtautahi at the Christchurch Arena. New Zealand is to host the tournament for the next three years, and this agreement will see Christchurch as the host city for 2023.
Speaking on the announcement, World Netball CEO Clare Briegal said, “New Zealanders are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable netball fans in the world, and I feel it’s fitting to see our fun, festive tournament return to New Zealand at this time.”
“The FAST5 Netball World Series has had incredible success and a strong following, and we’re looking forward to seeing that growth continue over the next three editions.”
Jennie Wyllie, Netball New Zealand’s chief executive, said they were thrilled to be hosting the FAST5 Netball World Series and were looking forward to welcoming some of the game’s best international players to New Zealand.
“We’re really excited to be hosting this fast-paced tournament again – it is a real celebration of netball, on and off the court. Due to Covid-19, there have been challenges with delivering netball recently, so what better way to welcome the return of FAST5 athletes than by hosting this event and welcoming the world’s best netballers to our shores,” she said
In another significant move, the FAST5 tournament will take the opportunity to increase its reach and include male exhibition matches on the schedule.
“This is another opportunity to showcase men’s netball on the international stage and also highlight the strength of our youth teams, utilising this condensed version of netball,” Jennie said.
Jane Watson, business owner, new mother, and international netballer, has recently been named in the ’22 and ’23 squad for Canterbury’s team, the Trident Homes Tactix. She is excited for the return of FAST5 to Christchurch and her own comeback to the sport.
“I cannot wait to be playing netball again. I’ve been slowly working my way back into the game after the birth of my daughter, Tia. Having this break has ignited a wee fire in me, which is so exciting. It’s going to be a challenge to get back, but I’m up for it”.
Jane encourages Ōtautahi to get out and support the girls in the FAST5 series. “It promises to be an awesome spectacle!”