Question Number: 28039

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 11/30/2013

RE: High School Under 16

Erin of Framingham, MA United States asks...

Are bicycle kicks illegal in girls high school soccer?

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

They are an exciting and lawful way to score.

But, a bicycle kick can also be very dangerous when improperly or carelessly executed, and will be called as a foul (kicking or play in a dangerous manner). If executed in a reckless manner, particularly if the foot strikes the opponent's head, they also can be punished as misconduct (and yellow or red card shown).

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Erin
A scissors or bicycle kick during a game when an opponent is within playing distance of the ball and the kicker's foot is, in the opinion of the official, dangerously high, the referee may award an indirect free kick to the defending team since this is considered dangerous play.
If there is no opponent close to the kick then the play is legal since no player is within playing distance of the ball.
The reason for this is player safety. An opponent may try to head the ball in these circumstances which is the more natural play and there is a high probability of contact with a high boot.