POLOCROSSE – HOW THE GAME IS PLAYED, A BASIC GUIDE
The game is played between 2 teams of 6 players each. The teams are split in to
2 sections of 3 players and each section takes it in turn to play on the field in 6 minute ‘chukkas’.
This gives the horses and players time to recover between chukkas. Each player is only allowed
one horse per tournament.
The idea of the game is to score the most goals by the No.1 player to throw the ball between the
posts, only the No.1 player can score.
The pitch is split in to 3 areas;
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Two goal scoring (or penalty) areas, separated by the penalty line. Within each goal
scoring area there is a 10 metre semi circle (the ‘D’) marked in front of the goal. The No.1
player must be outside this area for any shot at goal to count
Midfield area
The positions of the players are identified by the numbers on their backs and arms.
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No.1 – Attack player, only player able to score goals, allowed in the opponent’s goal area
No.2 – Midfield player, only allowed in the midfield area
No.3 – Defence player, allowed in their team’s goal area.
The game starts and restarts after each goal with a line out in the centre of the pitch on
alternating sides. The teams line up side by side then the umpire throws the ball in between
them.
Players are allowed to hit an opponent’s racquet in an attempt to dislodge the ball. Hitting is only
allowed in an upwards direction to prevent injury to the horse. Also, you can only hit out from
the side the opponent is carrying the ball – no leaning across.
Players are not allowed to carry the ball on the other side of the horse to which they normally
carry it , eg. to avoid a hit on their racquet.
Players are not allowed to carry the ball over the penalty line, it must be thrown to them over the
line or they must bounce it prior to reaching the line.
Physical contact is allowed between horses, but only under strict rules.
Any infringement of the rules will result in a penalty throw to the other side. This may occur
anywhere on the field. The penalty taker must throw the ball at least 10 metres and it must
bounce before they pick it up themselves. They may throw it directly to another member of their
team first, but they must be at least 10 metres away.
There are a number of other technical rules, but the above should enable you to see how the
game is played.