Two underlying concepts govern the game of polo. Equipment and the Throw-in The first is that polo is a team sport with each player filling a specific role and supporting the team effort on both offense and defense. The line remains set until the ball is struck by a player, changes direction, and a new line is formed. A player may cross the line only when it does not create a hazardous Polo Shots situation such as a collision with another rider. Three umpires, two on horseback and one on the side of the field, oversee the game and enforce the rules.
Infractions generally involve hazardous riding and dangerous use of the mallet.
When two players ride to the ball, both hoping to hit it, they must ride on either side of the line so that both will have access to the ball. They must also remain on opposite sides of the line, thus minimizing the risk of collision. There are general rules covering everything from the size of the ball to the colors of the team shirts, and field rules setting regulations for actual playing situations. When a foul occurs the umpires can award anything from a free goal to a free hit from a distance determined by the severity of the foul. Player Talk Scoring is accomplished by putting the ball across the goal line between two goal posts 24 feet apart.