Play On Call Meaning in Netball

A play on call is a verbal instruction from the umpire to continue the game without stopping. This happens when an infringement occurs but stopping the game would disadvantage the team that was fouled. The umpire allows the game to flow because the non-offending team still has a good scoring chance. This rule is known as the advantage rule and helps keep the match fast and exciting. An umpire shouts play on after a defender slightly contacts a player who still caught the ball. Players must listen carefully for this signal so they do not stop moving when a foul happens. It prevents the defense from benefiting by intentionally fouling to stop a fast break or a goal. One real-world example involves a shooter scoring a goal immediately after an umpire calls play on.