36) DISTANCE BETWEEN PLAYERS
What is the correct distance between players ? The answer depends on the standard of polo. A perfect team when anticipating a pass from their N°4, should adjust positions so that :
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35) FOCUS ON THE MALLET NOT BALL
By pointing the heel of the mallet head upwards, it is easier to make a firm contact on the other mallet as it swings down.
34) SPEED
The speed of the ponies has to be varied incessantly to achieve the above and maintain a correct position.
33) SEAT
Always sit on the front of the saddle and check regularly that you have not slipped backwards to be on the cantle. This is very important because :
32) DISTANCES
At every time, distances between you and others must be kept as constant as possible to allow you to stay in reach but not too close.
Probably the worst mistake in polo lies in this dimension, because players are too often either huddled together or too far apart. Hence control of the field is not retaind and possession is frequently lost.