Question Number: 25896

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 1/16/2012

RE: select Under 15

carly of bensalem, pa usa asks...

Is it illegal to do a victory dance on a high school level?

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Yes. Excessive celebration is misconduct, although high school rules now mirror TLOG in cautioning (yellow card) rather than disqualifying (red card) players. Still, if in the opinion of the referee, the action constitutes taunting, the player is disqualified.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Carly
NFHS has a rule that forbids taunting of opponents. Taunting is described at the use of word or act to incite or degrade an opposing player, coach, referee or other individual.. Any player guilty of taunting is dismissed.
If a player is guilty of excessive celebrations the player is cautioned.
The difference is a matter for the referee to decide based on the circumstances.
Personally I believe that players can celebrate a goal without being excessive and then there is no risk of disciplinary sanction.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

As always with these situations, the devil is in the details. A short celebration, which is not excessive will probably be all right - but it is the referee's opinion as to whether something is excessive or not that counts.

High school authorities frown on any kind of behavior that looks like taunting or making fun of the other team. Referees enforce that dislike. Players celebrate at their own risk.