Holding on a Faceoff

[mmaniscalco]

I was called for holding on a faceoff and I am now a little confused on why. I asked the Ref at half-time and he said because I placed my stick across my opponents stick/gloves. Here is the scenario.

I was getting beat on every whistle. He was just that much faster then me, so I decided to start jumping the ball, so I could push him off the ball before he could rack it. I have just started doing faceoffs this year, so I am not 100% sure about all the ins and outs. I have used this jump technique several other times if the other guy is faster then me and have never been called on it. I am not sure what to do now. How can you push someone off the ball if you can't place your stick over their gloves/stick?

I'd be happy to provide any other info if needed.

[D Ray]

Regardless of which code (NCAA or NF), the ref was correct. Neither player may use their crosse to hold or pin their opponents crosse or hands. Have never crouched to take a face-off, I cannot offer any tips, but having conducted thousands of them, I know what you can and cannot do.