It is thought the first game of 'netball' was played in New Zealand on 6 May 1897 as reported by the Otago Witness. (Some reports have it as later.)

It was thought to have been originally been played in Whanganui and Otago.

Then referred to as 'basket-ball', the game required two old baskets and a ball to play and was known for its 'simplicity'. It was also played on grass courts.

It is believed some Centres played 9 a side, while others centres played 7 a side making it impossible for them to play each other! 

Oh, how times have changed!

For more on the background to netball: Click here.

Image courtesy: Te Ara (teara.govt.nz).
Article added: Sunday 05 May 2019