What is considered "contact" in netball?

In netball, "contact" specifically refers to physical touch between players that impedes or influences the play. This can include situations where a defender makes physical contact with an attacking player, which can disrupt their movement, affect their ability to catch or pass the ball, or otherwise hinder their performance on the court. The nature of netball emphasizes fair play and the importance of maintaining space between players. Therefore, any physical infringement that affects gameplay is penalized, signifying that the essence of the rule is to prevent unfair advantage gained through physical interference.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of "contact." For instance, interference with the ball during a pass may involve a foul, but it does not directly pertain to player-to-player contact. A player stepping out of bounds is a violation of court rules but does not constitute contact in the context of physical interaction. Lastly, a whistle blown during play can signify various infractions but is not itself a form of contact; rather, it is a signal for stopping or restarting the game.