The Code of Play

Tennis polo is conducted under a code that governs all players of the game. Originating from tennis, the sport is governed by a series of etiquette rules that all players must follow.

This "Code of Play" removes the need for field officials during non-championship matches. The Code of Play relies on good sportsmanship, fairness and above all - love of the game.

Infractions

Infractions are called by field officials for various miscues on the field. The results of infractions depend on the severity as adjudged by the field officials. A player-advantage is gained when a player is ejected due to severe misconduct during a match. As a result, the player's team becomes short a player giving a distinct advantage to the opposing team.

The penalties given are:

• Change of Possession
• Indirect Free Shot
• Free Shot
• Penalty Shot
• Ejection

If a penalty occurs and the end of the period, the game clock will be reset to the time the penalty occurred and game play will be resumed.

False

A false is called when a team scores while in the possession area. The defending team gets control of the ball at the penalised team's possession line after the false is made.

Penalty: Change of Possession

Crosschecking

When a player uses their racquet against another player to stop the player from moving, or otherwise using the racquet to touch any part of the player's body.

Penalty: Free Shot

Personal Foul

This is called when a player makes illegal contact with an opponent using their body. The fouled player receives a foul shot from the spot of the foul. If the player is shooting when the foul is committed, the player will receive a penalty shot.

Penalty: Indirect Free Shot or Free Shot

Hand Contact

When a player makes illegal contact with the ball using their hands.

Penalty: Change of Possession

Misconduct

When determined by an official for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Penalty: Ejection

Holding

When a player uses bodily contact to obstruct an opponent (such as holding onto the opponent's racquet or jersey).

Penalty: Change of Possession

Pass Interference

When a player has hand-control of the ball after a pickup, the defending player interferes with a legal pass with their racquet or hands before the pass is made.

Penalty: Indirect Free Shot

Inappropriate Use

Inappropriate use is called when a player misuses their racquet, hands, feet or other legal appendage during the game.

Penalty: Indirect Free Shot, Free Shot or Penalty Shot (depending on severity).

Offside

Called when a player from the opposing team enters the possession area with the ball. That player may not leave the possession area with the ball.

Penalty: Indirect Free Shot

Ripping

When a player takes forcibly removes the ball from the hand of a possessing player, who clearly has control of the ball.

Penalty: Free Shot

Shots

Indirect Free Shot

Awarded after certain fouls. The player ma...