How does a face-off begin play in lacrosse?

In lacrosse, a face-off is the method used to begin play at the start of each quarter and following the scoring of a goal.1

During this procedure, the two centers face each other at midfield with the heads of their sticks touching the ground. The referee then places the ball between the two crosses. Upon the referee's signal, both players attempt to gain control of the ball, either by keeping it themselves or batting it to a teammate. This process is similar to the method used in hockey to initiate play.12