playing field

Grass-covered surface where a polo match is played; a game usually takes place over six 7-minute chukkers (periods), interrupted by breaks of 3 to 5 minutes.

goalpost

Pole marking one end of the goal; a team scores a point when the ball is shot between the posts of the opponents’ goal.

goal judge

Official placed behind the goal who waves a flag when a goal is scored; the goal judge may also assist the umpires when incidents occur near the goal.

center T mark

T-shaped mark at the center of the field; at the start of a chukker and after a goal, the players line up on each side of it for the throw-in.

player 4

Position that provides rear defense; this player can hit a ball very far and rides a horse that is husky, tough and fast.

60 yd line

sideline

Line that is often bordered by planks to delimit the playing zone on each side of the field; the players have the right to cross it or to bounce the ball off it.

tower

Building that houses the scorekeeper, the announcer and a third umpire, who is in charge of settling any dispute that may arise on the field.

mounted umpire

Playing-field official (there are two umpires) who is in charge of applying the rules; they perform the throw-ins and give penalties for fouls.

player 3

Player who is the pivot between the attack and the defense; this player is usually team captain, has a high handicap and is an excellent strategist.

40 yd line

Line from which a free hit may be made; depending on the seriousness of the foul, the free hit is made from the 30 yd, 40 yd or 60 yd line.

player 2

Forward position whose chief purpose is to drive the ball into the opponent’s territory; this player’s horse must be intrepid and energetic.

player 1

Forward position whose chief purpose is to score goals; this player’s horse must be quick and agile.

30 yd line