What is considered the bench zone in netball?

The bench zone in netball is defined as the area immediately outside the court that surrounds the official bench and the umpires' bench. This zone is crucial as it is designated for team officials, substitutes, and umpires, ensuring that players on the court can focus on gameplay without interference from personnel on the sidelines.

Being familiar with the bench zone is important for understanding game management and player substitutions. Substitutes must stay within this area until they are called onto the court, maintaining proper organization during a match.

Other options refer to different aspects of the game. The area where scoring occurs is within the goal circle; the centre third is part of the court designated for specific plays; and space behind the goal line is where the ball is put back into play. Each of these areas serves a unique function within the rules and gameplay of netball, but none describe the bench zone accurately.