is it a carry ?

Question
Hi Steve,
I play in an intermediate 6v6 indoor adult league; we self officiate (not very consistently).
I was told that if I strike the ball on in an upward motion, even if I clearly hit it with the heal of my hand (with an open hand & fingers angled back) and stop the motion at the point of contact (the ball clearly rebounds and is not thrown or lifted)it is still a carry.  I was also told if I make a fist and hit it the exact same way it isn't a carry.  Once again I need a true expert opinion instead of a multitude of wanna be experts; I have kind of been blacklisted since I presented your ruling on "one hand setting".  Thanks for your time, Rich

Answer
Rich,

A carry or a lift is a very subjective call.  It seems the higher the level the more lenient the call.  You may strike the ball with an open hand in an upward motion and it can easily be a legal hit.  A lift or carry should be called when a ball comes to rest in a players hand or on a players person.  You should get together with the league and make a rule (either way) so you have consistancy.  

Once again, though, it is a very subjective call.  I see National Refs make a call in September that they do not make in November.

Sorry for getting you in trouble with the one handed setting thing.  This is a similar rule, where many players have been taught the wrong rule interpurtation.

Have fun,
Steve