Question Number: 17137

Law 15 - Throw In 10/6/2007

RE: High School

Hector of South Burlington, Vermont Chittenden asks...

This question is a follow up to question 16566

I have been seen alot of players that have strong throw-ins however once in awhile I see the ball coming off with alot of spin indicating that not both hands came thru at the same time... I interpret this as an ilegal throw.

Can you help me out with this?

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

I would recommend you retool your interpretation. There is no prohibition in the Law against spinning the ball. Law 15 makes no mention of spinning, only that both hands must be on the ball, it must come from behind and over the head, from the spot where it left the field, and the thrower must be facing the field with both feet on or behind the touchline. It is possible to spin the ball and meet those criteria and thus it is a legal throw.

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Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Your interpretation is incorrect coach Hector, please adjust accordingly.

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Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Your interpretation is incorrect. Let me quote from Advice To Referee's On The Laws Of The Game the official US Soccer guidelines for referees: "There is no requirement in Law 15 prohibiting spin or rotational movement". A spinning ball does not equate with a foul throw.

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