Polo Skills

Rules Knowledge

The polo player has a clear understanding of the rules of the game and is able to verbally explain and physically demonstrate the rules of play to others.

A polo player must take the USPA rules test as a part of their handicap evaluation.

A polo player must verbally answer questions on specific situations applicable to their level of ability.

Horsemanship

Player has advanced riding skills and is capable of playing in a safe manner, under control most of the time.

A polo player must demonstrate proper use of:

• hands
• legs
• seat

At a canter or gallop, a polo player must be able to ride a specific pattern incorporating the use of:

• ovals
• figure eights
• stops
• turns
• roll-back

Playing Skills

Player has the ability to execute all shots, at a canter, or a gallop, in a satisfactory manner, including the ability to "turn the ball" and "dribble" in a 30 meter circle. A polo player must be able to hit the ball using the following shots:

• offside fore
• offside back
• offside neck
• offside cut
• offside tail
• offside belly
• nearside fore
• nearside back
• nearside neck
• nearside cut
• nearside tail
• nearside belly

Player has the ability to initiate offensive plays from the end-line, throw-ins, turnovers, passing, and is successful on 50% or more of all penalties #2, #3 and #4.

Player has the ability to execute defensive "ride-offs", "bumps", "hooks", and "blocks", and be able to turn the play from defense to offense without incurring a penalty.

Position Knowledge

Player has experience at all team positions and has a clear understanding of the responsibilities of each team position.

A polo player must verbally answer questions player about the specific duties and responsibilities of each position according to their level of ability.

Teamwork

Player routinely surveys the field visually with intent to pass to an open player, to defend an uncovered offensive player, to assist a teammate in trouble, or to anticipate advantageous positioning.

Player is on time for all "throw-ins", "knock-ins", and penalties and is properly positioned at all times in accordance with the team plan.

Player demonstrates good sportsmanship at all times.

Game Strategy

Player has a moderate understanding and minimal experience in planning and implementation of various game strategies, including the ability to position teammates, schedule ponies, and select plays in the most effective manner.

Polo Ponies

In match play, a polo player should own, lease, or control an adequate number of polo ponies whose athletic ability and game experience are equal to or greater than the polo players handicap.