What must players do before taking a shot at the goal?

Being within shooting range is essential before a player takes a shot at the goal in netball. This concept pertains to the physical distance a player must be from the goal post to have a realistic chance of successfully scoring. If a player is too far away, the likelihood of making the shot diminishes considerably, impacting the effectiveness of the scoring opportunity.

Furthermore, understanding shooting range is crucial for players to make strategic decisions on the court. For instance, it helps them assess whether they should attempt a shot or pass the ball to a teammate in a better position.

While other considerations, such as ensuring the area is clear or waiting for specific signals, are important in the context of gameplay, none directly influence the fundamental requirement of being in shooting range. The ability to shoot effectively relies primarily on proximity to the goal for accuracy and scoring potential.