JMer711

Hi All,

I need to settle a dispute -- is it legal to hit the ball with your head in volleyball (indoor or beach)? I know you can play it off of someone's head or other body part, but can you deliberately headbutt the ball (whether as a pass to a teammate or over the net)? Wikipedia states: "The ball may touch any part of the body, but must be hit, not caught or thrown." However, in my more than 10 years of playing competitively, I've NEVER seen this happen...

Thanks,

Jessie

stuman491

Yes it is completely legal. At least according to the FIVB rulebook. I once had a player go to hit the ball and miss it. The ball proceeded to hit her on the head and land on the floor on the other side and we won the point. The ref was laughing pretty hard as was the rest of my team. I have also seen a girl intentionally use her head to put the ball over the net. I thought her coach might strangle her, but it is totally legal.

omnispiker

It's legal contact. Blocking with the head is legal too, but I personally wouldn't want a facial.

__________________
Just some backyard player...

lilowl

funny eh, but still legal. I wouldn't do it though

Toke10

its a good question actually. yes it is legal to play the ball with the head. but in some cases like in a first touch defence situation were you are going to pass the ball to the setter with you arms you are allowed to let the ball touch/bounce 2 or more times on your body (like in the head) but if your doing it intentionally to make the ball easier to play its not allowed.
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i saw this happen today, in a game. were it was roolled unintentionally 2 second touch in defence play with the head.