Can you kick the ball in Volleyball: Legal Move or Foul?

Have you ever wondered if kicking the ball in volleyball is allowed or not? 

Well, so do many people, and it still causes confusion. Here is a quick search result for the same.

The first two results contradict each other. (It was quite a debate till around 2010-11). 

The Short Answer: Yes, You Can!

Yes, you can kick the ball in volleyball! 

can you kick the ball in Volleyball explained

According to the rules set by the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), the ball can legally touch any part of your body, including your feet. This means kicking the ball is permissible in both indoor and beach volleyball. However, like many things in volleyball, there’s a bit more to it than just that.

This rule was clearly put into practice in 1993, but there was lots of ambiguity until 2010. There was a lot of confusion because many players and coaches were clear in instructing that you should only use the area above your waist. 

Here is the link to know the official rule:

9.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE HIT 9.2.1 The ball may touch any part of the body.FIVB-Volleyball Rules 2017-2020

Now that we know that you can kick the ball in the volleyball, here are a few things I would like you to know about it.

Why You Might Kick the Ball

Desperate Saves: Sometimes, the ball is coming at you so fast that using your hands just won’t cut it. A quick kick can keep the ball in play in these high-pressure moments and potentially save the point.

Unexpected Plays: A well-timed kick can throw off your opponents, catching them by surprise and giving your team a strategic advantage.

Beach Volleyball: On the sand, you have a bit more freedom to use your feet to control the ball, making those tricky saves when diving isn’t an option.

The Chase: There have been a few instances of players chasing the ball out of court and saving the point using their feet. Personally, I feel that a swan dive is better used in such cases. 

When to Avoid Kicking the Ball

Despite the legality of kicking, it’s important to know when not to use your feet:

Serving: The serve should always be executed by hand to maintain control and precision. A kick serve is far more challenging and less effective.

Out of Anger: Kicking the ball out of frustration is a big no-no. It disrupts team harmony and can also result in penalties from the referee.

Out of Bounds: If a ball is heading out of bounds, trying to save it with a kick can often lead to uncontrolled hits and even injury. It’s better to let it go and prepare for next play.

What to keep in mind about kicking the ball in Volleyball

Something being legal in the game is one thing, but thinking of using this thing as a strategy in an ongoing game or something that you impact to improve your game is totally different.

 The only reason for this post is to tell you that, during the game situation (and quick thinking), if you kick the ball, then don’t hesitate or stop to think that you have done something illegal.

But, overall, avoid learning how to kick for practice and how to get the volleyball as a part of your game or strategy.

Control and Precision: Using your hands and arms provides much better control and precision. Kicking can be less accurate and lead to unpredictable outcomes, which is why it’s often discouraged in regular play.

Injury Risk: There’s a higher risk of injury when kicking the ball to yourself and others on the court. Always be mindful of your surroundings and your teammates’ positions.

Equipment Damage: Volleyballs are designed to withstand impacts from hands and arms, not feet. Frequent kicking can affect the ball’s shape, making it unsuitable for consistent play.

What to do in training and drills?

While knowing how to use your feet in a pinch is good, your training should prioritize traditional skills like passing, setting, and spiking

Incorporating footwork drills can help improve your versatility and reaction times, but always focus on developing your hand skills.

Remember, it’s all about control and precision. Use your feet wisely and sparingly, and always aim to play the ball with your hands whenever possible.

Keep kicking as a secondary skill for those desperate moments. 

Understanding these rules and best practices will enhance your gameplay and maximise every rally.

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