Course
Dangerous Use of the Mallet

Why is Dangerous Use of the Mallet a Rule

Dangerous use of the mallet rule implies that a player must be in control and responsible for their mallet at all times. If a player comes into contact with another player's mount or another player in a manner that is dangerous to that player or mount, then dangerous use of the mallet will be called.  


How is the Rule of Dangerous Use of the Mallet Applied

Dangerous use of the mallet doesn’t differentiate between offensive and defensive players. The main difference is that an offensive player will be trying to hit the ball and will therefore be more likely to strike a horse or player if they’re unaware of their surroundings. A defensive player will be more likely to strike a horse or player when attempting a hook or nearside backshot, in both instances a player must be in control of their mallet and aware of players and mounts in close proximity.    
Procedure of the Dangerous Use of the Mallet Rule

The penalty for a dangerous use of the mallet violation varies from a spot hit for a minor infraction all the way up to a red card for a major incident or action which is deemed intentional. The placement of the penalty hit is determined by the severity of the foul and any yellow flags that might have been awarded.  
Dangerous Use of the Mallet at Different Levels of Polo

There is very little difference in the interpretation of dangerous use of the mallet at low and high goal levels. If a player or mount is endangered by the use of a mallet, a foul will be called regardless of the level. 

The most common error that Fergus noted for a dangerous use of the mallet violation being called, is a lack of awareness of immediate surroundings. Players may take a neckshot and be unaware of a player on their right, resulting in a foul being awarded. Likewise they may lose control of their mallet during the follow through and end up inadvertently striking a horse or player.  The solution to this is to be more aware of your surroundings and to ensure you remain in full control of your mallet at all times. 


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