What does "contact" lead to if it disrupts the play?

When "contact" occurs in netball and disrupts the play, it typically results in a penalty being awarded. This is because netball has strict rules regarding player contact, and any infringement that affects another player's ability to play the ball or move freely is taken seriously. The umpire's role is to maintain fair play, and when contact is deemed to have disrupted the flow of the game, the opposing team is given a penalty to allow them to restart the play under advantageous conditions.

By awarding a penalty, the game ensures that the team that was wronged receives a fair opportunity to regain possession or continue the play, thereby maintaining the integrity of the game. This decision is an essential part of the rules that ensures safety and fairness on the court.