Question Number: 22316

Law 15 - Throw In 10/21/2009

RE: High School

Ethan Blanchette of Lynnfield, MA USA asks...

I continuously see long throw-ins by high school players with excessive amounts of spin - indicating that the arms are not coming over the head together (even though they often appear very close). Are such throws (with excessive sideways rotation)completely legal as long as the arms appear to come over the head at approximately the same time?

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Yes. There is nothing in the Laws or the HS rules prohibiting spin on the ball. It simply must come from behind and over their head (but not like a basketball throw - one hand behind the other) in their hands, while facing the field, both feet on or behind the line and at the spot where it left the field (approximately).

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

'Spin is no sin.'

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Coach Blanchette
The law on Throw Ins has been changed in recent years and spin caused by with both arms not coming over exactly in sync or one hand being more dominant is now allowed.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Myth abounds,
the ball is round and shapley.
Spinning around it makes no sound
but the cries of the lame, they have no shame
Tis foul they cry, but they know not why
Myths abound!