What the heck is a parry?

[DadofTwins]

Most of the time it's moot, since a "parry" usually sends the ball out of the area or out of bounds.

Basically, in the opinion of the referee, if the goalie intentionally touches the ball with his hands, he is considered to be "in possession/control," at least momentarily, and at least for the purposes of the rule.

By rule, touching has to be clearly accidental not to be considered a "parry." It may not make linguistic sense, but it's the way NFHS wants the rule enforced.

In the end, it's a judgment call.