Polo is a unique sport that uses horses---typically called "ponies," according to the United States Polo Association---to propel players across a field in an attempt to hit a ball between two goal posts, similar to soccer or hockey. The rules of polo are fairly complicated, but explanation of some basic rules will help any spectator get a handle on the game.
Game Play Rules
Four players and their ponies are allowed on the field for each team at one time, according to the United States Polo Association. The game is divided into four, five or six periods lasting seven and a half minutes each. The object of the game is to use a wooden mallet to hit a white ball through two goal posts at one end of the field in order to score a point. When a point is scored, teams change directions and the goals to which they are attempting to shoot the ball. The team with the most points at the end of the final period is declared the winner.
Lines
In polo, players must ride their horses in a line parallel to the direction that the ball is hit and must not cross over the line upon which the ball is hit. For example, if a player hits the ball straight toward the goal, all players on their horses must ride toward or away from the goal in line with the ball. Crossing over the line of the ball in a dangerous way, such as crossing too close to the player playing the ball, is considered a foul. Players are given leeway in riding on the path of the ball if it has been hit in a different direction.
Fouls
If a player deliberately or dangerously crosses in front of another player, the opposing team is awarded a free point. Players are prohibited from using their arms, feet, hands or mallet to strike an opposing player or pony. Players are permitted to use their upper arms and shoulders in order to move an opponent out of the way in an attempt to play the ball. It is a foul to use the mallet in an attempt to hook another player's mallet to prevent him from striking the ball. Fouls are penalized by spotting the ball where the foul occurred and giving the offended team a free hit.
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