Kick off question

[ajmc]

Originally Posted by bossman72

I think that kick hit the ground first...

As the technique for driving the ball, immediately off the tee, down into the ground in hopes that it bounces high over the reach of the receiver's "up" line has improved, it has enhanced the responsibility of the Linesman to focus on every Free Kick to determine if this has happened.

Once that grounded ball passes beyond the receivers Free Kick line it's a free ball, and the kicking team has every right to possess it. To the other officials legal action by the kickers can easily be misunderstood as Kick Catching Interference and draw a flag(s).

It is then the Linesman who must then advise, if the kick had been immediately grounds, which would negate any KCI flags assessed.