Question Number: 22195

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 10/10/2009

RE: Varsity High School

Terry Mills of far hills, NJ usa asks...

Is the bicycle kick a legal shot in high school soccer

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

There is no prohibition of a bicycle kick, a high kick, or playing the ball while laying on the ground. In order for any of these to be considered dangerous play, they have to somehow adversely affect an opponent

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Terry
The bicylce kick when executed properly in the correct location is an exciting shot. The safest position is when the kicker is between the ball and the opponent, with the opponent unable to challenge for the ball. However if the challenger is in a position to head the ball then that should be called as dangerous play and an indirect free kick awarded.
In a game today this very situation happened where a forward tried to bicycle kick in a position where the defender was able to head the ball. I awarded an IDFK with the advice that it was dangerous with the boot raised high close to the defender's head. Not much debate really.
Referee Wichham has advised on the NHFS view on this.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

High school rules are the same as the rest of the world.

A bicycle kick can be a legal and exciting shot.

A bicycle kick can be the foul of dangerous play. If it is executed in a manner that affects the safety and play of a nearby opponent. This is a judgment call for the referee based on all the facts and circumstances, including the skill level of the players.