Netball and floorball are two of the most popular team sports in Singapore, played in schools, community clubs, and social leagues across the island. Both are fast, friendly, and easy to pick up, which makes them a fantastic way to stay active while meeting new people. If you played netball in school and want to return to the court, or you are curious about floorball as a newcomer, this guide covers what each sport is, how to start, and where to play. For anyone searching about netball Singapore has a thriving community, and floorball is growing quickly alongside it.
The two sports share a welcoming, team-first spirit, but they are quite different to play. Netball is a passing game with no dribbling, played on an outdoor or indoor court with a raised ring. Floorball is an indoor stick-and-ball sport, a little like a lighter, faster version of hockey played with a plastic ball. Both are excellent for building fitness, coordination, and teamwork.
What Netball Is and How to Start
Netball is played between two teams of seven players on a court divided into thirds. The aim is to score by shooting the ball through a ring mounted on a post, similar to a basketball hoop but without a backboard. The catch is that you cannot run with the ball or bounce it. Once you catch it, you must pass or shoot within a few seconds and without moving your landing foot. This makes netball a game of clever passing, sharp movement, and quick decisions rather than solo dribbling.
Each of the seven players wears a position bib, and each position is only allowed in certain areas of the court. For example, the shooters play in the attacking third and are the only ones who may score, while the defenders and centre players cover other zones. This positional structure is part of what makes netball so team-oriented, because you constantly rely on your teammates to move the ball up the court.
To start, the easiest route is to join a beginner-friendly social session or a community club. You will learn the footwork rule, the basic passes such as the chest pass and the shoulder pass, and how to pivot on your landing foot. Do not worry about shooting like a pro on day one. Reliable passing and good positioning will make you a valued teammate straight away.
If you enjoy team sports, you might also like the quick indoor rallies of squash in Singapore, which is another great way to stay active in a small space.
What Floorball Is and How to Start
Floorball is an indoor team sport played five against five, plus a goalkeeper, on a rink enclosed by low boards. Players use a lightweight stick to control and shoot a light, hollow plastic ball with holes in it. Because the ball and sticks are so light, the game is fast and easy on beginners, and it is much gentler than ice hockey since there is no body checking allowed.
The basics are quick to learn. You dribble the ball along the floor with your stick, pass to teammates, and try to shoot into the opponent’s goal, which is guarded by a goalkeeper who plays without a stick. Good grip on the stick, low knees, and keeping your head up to see passes are the first things a beginner picks up. Within a single session most people can rally, pass, and take a shot.
Both sports run in schools, clubs, and casual leagues, so search for current beginner sessions and social groups near you. Many welcome complete newcomers and will lend you gear for your first try.
Where to Play, Gear and Safety
Netball and floorball are played at sports halls, community centres, school courts, and public sports facilities all over Singapore. Public and community venues are usually the most affordable, and many can be booked online. If you want to reserve a court or hall yourself, our guide to getting an ActiveSG account and booking facilities in Singapore explains how. Because clubs, leagues, and session times change, look up current providers and check their schedules before turning up.
The gear for both sports is simple. For netball you need comfortable sportswear and supportive non-marking court shoes with good grip and ankle stability, since the sudden stops and pivots put stress on your feet and ankles. Many players add ankle support and always keep their nails short to protect others during passes. For floorball you need a floorball stick, indoor court shoes, and comfortable clothing. Goalkeepers wear extra padding and a helmet. Beginners can usually borrow sticks and equipment at a first session, so there is no need to buy everything at once.
On safety, warm up properly before you play, because both sports involve rapid changes of direction. In netball, focus on landing safely and pivoting correctly to protect your knees and ankles, and never barge into an opponent. In floorball, keep your stick low, avoid high swings near other players, and follow the no-checking rules that keep the game friendly. Stay hydrated, listen to your body, and stop if something hurts. With the right shoes, a bit of warm-up, and a welcoming club, netball and floorball are among the easiest and most sociable ways to get moving in Singapore.