Lead Pass Meaning in Netball

A lead pass is a throw directed into the empty space ahead of a teammate. The passer anticipates where the runner will be rather than throwing directly at them. This technique allows the attacking team to maintain their speed and move down the court. It requires great communication and timing between the two players involved in the play. A center sends a lead pass to a wing attack sprinting toward the goal. The ball should arrive at chest height so the receiver can catch it in stride. This style of passing makes it very difficult for defenders to set up properly. One real-world example shows a player running onto a ball thrown into open space.