Tips for your first game 🙌
Feeling nervous? You’re not alone!
The first game can be really daunting - so don’t worry, you’re definitely not the only one who might be feeling that wonderful combo of nerves and excitement. The first thing you need to remember is to check all the details in the app to make sure you’re prepared and know where to go. We’ll let you know what time the game is and what court you’re on. When you get there, remember to look out for the other players next to your assigned meeting place (normally a court number) looking nervous!
Arrive on time (or slightly early) 👋
This is really important if you’ve never been to the venue before. Arriving a few minutes early gives you the chance to introduce yourself to your team before you start playing. Honestly names are everyone’s weakness, so have a chat beforehand and start putting names to faces. I promise no-one will be mad if you forget their name during the first couple of games (as long as you’re all set by game #3!)
Have a chat 💬
Get to know your new teammates before and after the game - this is a social game after all, and (like Mum says) the real win is the friends you make along the way! A great ice breaker? Discuss the game you’re about to play! If you’re playing Netball, chat about what positions you’re most comfortable playing or what your strengths and weaknesses are. If you’ve never played the game before, don’t worry — chances are some of your teammates are totally new to the game or haven’t played in years. And hey, there will likely be someone on your team who is a little more experienced and can give you a hand.
(If you’re a total introvert and terrible at starting conversations but don’t want to actually type “how to have a conversation with someone” into Youtube — don’t worry, I’ve done it for you 😉)
Share court time ⏰
We often have a few extra people allocated into a team to ensure that we’re never left short of players. Sharing the court time is really important to make sure everyone has a fun experience (and gives you a chance to have a quick rest). Divide the time so that each person goes off once in each half. We recommend reading our substitution guide for more info on how to work this out.
Code of Conduct is key 🔑
All Just Play players and teams must treat all other players, umpires, venue staff and spectators with respect at all times. By participating in a game with Just Play, you agree to abide by our conduct policy and do your best to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience. Even if someone isn’t being the best player, it’s important to stay chill!
Game reports 📲
Filling in the game report right after the match is soooo much easier than waiting til you get home! If you wait too long, people forget names and end up missing people or not filling it in at all. The game reports help us see who was there so we can follow anyone up who didn’t show to make sure they RSVP (it also shows us if there were any minor issues we need to sort out for next week). Only one person needs to fill this out, so if you’re all together after the match you can lock in those names and faces.
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Here if you need 😊
The Player Support team are there to answer any questions you may have prior to or after the game. If you’re unsure, just ask! We also have the Player Handbook for more information on how to use the app and make sure you’re getting all the info you need before the season starts.
Good luck!