Chukker
There are six chukkers in a polo match, each one lasting seven minutes. Between each chukker, players change horses.
Divot Stomping
An activity that involves spectators in the game. During halftime, spectators are invited to go onto the playing field to
replace pieces of turf that have been dug-up by the horses.
Double-Chukkered
Means that the same horse may be played again in a later chukker.
Field
The polo field is 300 yards long and 160 yards wide (10 acres). The goal posts have an eight-yard span.
Game
Consists of four or six chukkers, depending on the number of available horses, the level of play, or the nature of the tournament.
Goal
When the ball crosses the line between the goal posts. The team's goal change each time a goal is scored.
Handicap
Registered players are rated on a scale of minus 2 through 10 (the higher the better).
Hook
An extremely effective defensive technique. A player may use his mallet to interfere with his opponent's swing.
Knock-In
Should a team, in an offensive drive, hit the ball across the opponents' backline, the defending team resumes the game with a free hit from their backline.
Line-of-the-Ball or Right-of-Way
This imaginary line follows the path that the ball takes. On each side of this line is a lane and these two lanes determine the right-of-way of the player.
Mallet
The shaft is made of bamboo cane with a hardwood head. The head is beveled on one end to allow a full swing flush to the ground. The mallet is highly flexible and varies in length.
Near-Side Shot
Made from the left side of the horse. Near-side is the "back hand" of polo shots.
Neck Shot
A ball which is hit under a horse's neck from either side.
Off-Side Shot
The off-side is the right side of the horse. It is the most commonly used shot in polo.
Penalty
A free hit towards the goal from a set distance. The severity of the foul committed determines what penalty will be awarded.
Positions
Each of the 4 team members play a distinctly different position. Players may momentarily change positions, but
they try to stay at their initial spot. Number 1 is the most forward offensive player. Number 2 is just as
aggressive, but plays deeper. Number 3 is the pivot between offense and defense and tries to turn all plays to
offense. Number 4, or the back, is the defensive player whose principle role is to protect the goal.
Ride-Off
Occurs when two riders attempt to push each other off the line of the ball.
Tail Shot
Hitting the ball behind and under the horse's rump.
Third Man
A referee who sits off the field. If and when the two umpires on the field are in disagreement, the third man makes the final decision.
Throw-In
A chukker begins and many plays resume with the umpire bowling the ball between the two ready teams.
Umpires
Two mounted umpires on the field consult each other after each infringement and impose a penalty only if they
agree. If they do not agree, they confer with the third man or referee. They also monitor safety for the
players and horses.
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