Question Number: 23280

Law 15 - Throw In 5/9/2010

RE: Select Under 13

Mark of Findlay, OH USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 23031

One answer to this question had this quote:
'Many years ago the Law stated that the player had to use both hands and referees interpreted that spin on the ball was a result of not using both hands and therefore an incorrectly taken throw in. That is no longer the case yet the old interpretation remains particularly with older players, officials etc'.

When did the interpretation of the rule change?

Thank You,

Mark

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Mi Mark
Law 14 changed in the season 2008/2009 to 'holds the ball with both hands'. In the previous seasons the Law 14 stated 'uses both hands'.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

The interpretation has been that way for as long as I can remember. Using both hands does not say use both hands equally. Folks read more into the phrase than was there.

The USSF video, Myths of the Game, put out at least 10 years ago stated that it was not a problem if the ball was spinning when thrown.

Law 15 is one that is interpreted liberally toward the goal of getting the ball back into play as quickly as possible. As long as what occurs is not unfair - to the throwing team - like those opponents who insist on encroaching closer than 2 yards or who think this is basketball where one can gesticulate freely; or unfair to the opponents - like throwing the ball in from some spot way off the field or far away from where it went out or slamming an opponent with the thrown ball, experienced referees tend to ignore trifling violations in order to get the ball in play. Statistically, the opponent wins throw-ins 50% of the time, so not much need for interventions, save in clearly unfair circumstances.

In younger or less skilled games, more is called to help them learn the basics (it is often the less skilled referees as well).