News

Player Bulletin - Rule Change

26 Sep 2025

APF POLO RULES, September 2025

The following Rule has been updated and will become effective immediately. Changes in Bold.

APF SUPPLEMENTARY RULES AND REGULATIONS

SECTION 1 - PRELIMINARY RULES FOR THE GAME

2.3 PLAYERS EQUIPMENT

a.      Whips. Whips must be no more than 48 inches long including any tag. Broken whips are not allowed. The whip may only be used with left hand when the ball is in play and then only down its shoulder or on its quarters. A whip must not be used when not involved in the play (i.e. coming back from a change)

Misuse includes but is not limited to:

-Use of the whip when the ball is not in play 

-Use of the whip by players not involved in play

-Use of the whip more than once on its quarters without allowing the pony to react before any further hit.

-Use of the whip on its flank, ie anywhere between its shoulder and quarters.

-Raising any part of the left arm and/or whip above the shoulder.

-Marking the pony

-Striking pony with - excessive and/or unnecessary force, and/or making an excessive noise.

Misuse of the whip constitutes unsportsmanlike conduct.

For a first whipping offence the player shall be awarded either:

•   Yellow card - if without excessive use and/or marking.

•   Double yellow card - If with excessive use and/or marking. The player shall return from the sin bin without their whip, and they will not be allowed a whip for the remainder of the match.

For a second whipping offence:

•   Yellow card - With or without excessive use and/or marking. The player shall return from the sin bin without their whip, and they will not be allowed a whip for the remainder of the match.

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