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.