The figure is identified as a player by the ball he holds, his headgear, and the yoke or belt he wears to protect his hips from the solid rubber ball used to play the game. The detailed pattern on the garment he wears may indicate his lineage, religion, or political allegiance. Adornments such as ear flares, nose ring, arm bands, and body paint indicate status, and are instrumental to our understanding of the ritual importance of the ballgame.