There are four players on a polo team and each player has a unique position. Sometimes players may have to momentarily switch positions, but they will try and get back to playing their position as soon as possible. Player # 1 is the most forward offensive player and is selected for their ability to accurately shoot at the goal. Their horse needs to be quick. Player # 2 is also an offensive player, but plays behind # 1 and tries to pass the ball up to #1. The #2 player is chosen for their quickness and dexterity and their horse must be courageous and confident. The # 3 player is the pivot player between the offense and defense. He tries to make plays happen for the offensive players by getting the ball to them. The # 3 player is typically the longest hitter on the polo team and is also usually the captain of the team or the player with the highest handicap, i.e. the best player. He is a roving player, and it is his task to be prepared to pass the ball forward, attack the goal themselves, or drop back to help the #4 player in defense. # 4 horse needs to have a lot of be strong and have a lot of stamina. The # 4 player is the furthest back (he is called the Back) on the field and is mostly a defensive player. His job is to get the ball back up the field to his teammates. He needs the ability to hit back-handers and ride-off his opponents and for this his horse needs to be strong, tough, sturdy and fast.