PLAYERS from the South & West Dorset League (SWDL) got back on court to kick-start a new competition.

Eight teams from across the SWDL’s three divisions are taking part in an indoor league which was launched at Redlands Community Sports Hub.

High flyers Waterside, Fitness World Weymouth and New Body were keen to take on OTC and Stika from Club Fitness First, while newly-promoted Wether-spoon and Bay Landscaping, as well as the youngsters from Café Oasis, went toe-to-toe with their more experienced opponents.

The initiative was organised by Juliette Frampton to fill the void in the close season.

With the winter league finishing in early December, there would have been a three-month break before the next competitive matches.

“I thought it would be a great chance to offer our league players alternative provision during the close season,” said Frampton.

“In the summer we offered the Netball Now scheme which was a great success, however, in the winter months playing netball outside isn’t always as enjoyable, so that’s why I chose to organise this.”

The indoor league will run until the end of January with matches being held every Thursday even-ing from 6.45pm in the sports hall at Redlands.

Games take on a slightly different format as it is a non-competitive league.

Teams have to choose their line-up wisely as in the second half of fixtures the umpires are in control of the playing positions, meaning a goal-shooter could find herself as centre, or a goal-defence as wing-attack.

Senior development officer Laura Gardner added: “It is really exciting to see a new netballing opportunity offered to our players.

“I can’t wait to play and see everyone else having fun on court in different positions.”

Anyone is welcome to watch the matches, the first one gets underway at 6.50pm with the final match ending at 9.15pm.

Alternatively, if you would like more information about joining a team in the South & West Dorset Netball League or getting back into netball, contact Gardner via back2netballweymouth@outlook.com.

You can also find more information through Facebook South & West Dorset Netball or on Twitter @SWDNetball