Fiji’s Netball Triumph: Mastering the Hoist Defense Strategy

The Fiji men’s netball team achieved a remarkable victory at the Men’s Netball Nations Series in Singapore last week, largely due to their strategic use of a defensive tactic known as the ‘hoist.’ This method, originally popularized by Singapore’s netball team and former Silver Ferns star Anna Harrison over a decade ago, proved essential in helping Fiji secure a 55-54 win over Australia, who began the match with an eight-point lead in the first quarter.

Fiji’s head coach, Jioweli Makare, recognized the need for a robust defensive approach against Australia’s precise shooting. He emphasized that while Australia’s players were highly structured and efficient in their scoring, his team needed to adopt strategies to counter their seamless offensive game. “Australia is too clinical and very structured. Their shooters are just putting those balls in even when we have only one defender defending,” Makare explained.

In response, Makare drew from the expertise of past players and adjusted their defensive tactics. He encouraged his defenders to implement the ‘hoist’ maneuver, which involves lifting a teammate to block shooting attempts from close range. “We had to block a few of those shots by lifting other defenders and towards the end of the game, they were missing shots even below the post,” he noted.

The ‘hoist,’ also referred to as the chair lift in some regions, is a legal move executed from a distance of three feet from the shooter, showcasing an innovative way to bolster defense in netball.

The team’s success was celebrated by local sponsors FinanceHub, who hosted a morning tea in honor of their achievements, demonstrating community support for the team.

This victory not only marks a significant milestone for the Fiji men’s netball team but also highlights the effectiveness of strategic planning and adaptation in sports. As they continue to develop their skills and tactics, the future looks bright for Fiji’s netball ambitions.

In summary, the Fiji men’s netball team’s win in Singapore is a testament to their strategic adaptability, particularly through the use of the ‘hoist’ defense, which helped them overcome a challenging opponent and set the stage for future successes.