Question Number: 26663

Law 15 - Throw In 8/21/2012

RE: Competitive Under 18

Harris of Toronto, Ontario Canada asks...

During throw-ins, the thrower bends forward almost 90 degrees while taking the throw-in. Is this allowed?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Harris
Like your previous question this action would not be considered legal at a throw in. While the Law is mute there is an element of implicit knowledge in the throw in area. If the referee deems it to be a 'spike' that is an incorrectly taken throw in and you will find that it is not repeated when the throw in is turned over to the opponents.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Traditionally a throw downwards, a 'spike', is considered to be an illegal throw. I fail to see how a player could bend over 90 degrees and not direct the ball downwards. Throw-in to the other team.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Traditionally, a ball thrown straight down is considered to be spiked, and as that is dangerous for the other players, it is not allowed. The throw-in is not properly performed in the opinion of the referee, so the throw is awarded to the opposing team at the same spot.

Bending over to 90 degrees almost sounds like a taunting or other unsporting act. I might warn once, after awarding the throw to the other side.

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 26724

See Question: 26733

See Question: 26859