April 2018 I/I Magazine

2018

I/I MAGAZINE AsupplementtoPoloPlayers’Edition ApublicationoftheUnitedStatesPoloAssociation®

2018 I/I MAGAZINE DEPARTMENTS

COVER:

University of Virginia senior (‘17), Mary Collins, turns the ball on her nearside during the 2017 USPA Women’s National Intercollegiate Championship Semi-Final game vs Cornell University. The UVA women would go on to win their 9th National Championship later that week. The NIC was hosted for the first time on the West Coast, by the beautiful Santa Barbara Polo Club.

PC: Elizabeth Hedley

4 16, 24, 30, 36 26 32 40 58 64 76

2017 I/I Tournament Winners 2017 PTF I/I Players of The Year Team USPA I/I Goes International Life After I/I: Alumni View From The Crow’s Nest From the Horse’s Mouth I/I Team Rosters

FEATURES 20 44 50 54 66 70 74

NYTS CPI - Get Certified Fall Fandango Rescue. Rehab. Repurpose.

Coaches’ Corner USPA Intern Program Oxford Polo Challenge

PASSION. DEDICATION. EXCELLENCE.

2018 I/I Magazine

A Publication of the United States Polo Association ® Editor: Amy Fraser Publisher: United States Polo Association ® Prepress: Publishers Press USPA I/I Program Director: Amy Fraser USPA I/I Tournament Manager: Emily Dewey USPA I/I Program Coordinator: Ali Davidge USPA I/I Chairman: David Wenning United States Polo Association ® 9011 Lake Worth Road Lake Worth, FL 33467 1-800-232-USPA uspa@uspolo.org USPOLO.ORG facebook.com/iipolo No part of this issue may be reproduced by any mechanical, photographic or electronic process without written permission of the publisher.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Last year I gave a piece of advice to all our players out there: one day your opponents

will be your teammates, and your teammates will be your opponents. Each year we welcome new teams, players, parents, and coaches into the I/I program. I love the “aha!” moment when speaking with a new player about people or horses we both know and they realize how small and unique the polo world is. Having players grasp the understanding of what a great community they have become a part of is one of the best parts of the I/I staff’s job. This summer I attended the Feldman Cup, the National I/I Alumni Tournament, hosted by the Maryland Polo Club. The tournament consisted of recent grads and those who hadn’t worn their team’s colors for fifteen years. No matter their length of time out of the irons, they were all back for a weekend of fun polo, I/I style.

I was able to pick up a few chukkers in the B Flight, thanks to Posey Obrecht who gave up playing time for me. My teammates were comprised of grads from Michigan State University, the University of Kentucky, Virginia Tech, and of course I was representing UCONN. They say a picture is worth 1000 words, and the below image captures the essence of I/I polo. That’s me in the pink, playing a former pony of mine, hooking (or for those involved, it was more of an attempt, rather than an actual hook), anyways, attempting to hook Liv (Stringer) Berube. Now it was a serious game, after all there were trophies on the line, but for who knows what reason, both of us had a fit of the giggles as Liv went onto score in that play. More than a decade ago, Liv and I were competitors at the collegiate level and found ourselves playing against each other again in the National Feldman Cup. Two weeks later, Liv and I would play on the same team for the first time in the Aiken Ladies Invitational. Many more smiles to be had! So as you continue on and meet new teams and players, remember, you are meeting new friends!

Amy Fraser Director, I/I Polo SMILES ALL AROUND PINK TEAM

BLUE TEAM

Pixie!

<3

<3

MIKE RYAN

DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME: Should have been a nearside hook all day long...maybe then I would have stopped the goal. But hey, I’m getting older, and the nearside is a scary place!

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t cholastic (I/I) Tournamen Intercollegiate and Inters PA US the of n itio ed Welcome to the 2018 ms that 2018 has more tea season! on, it should be noted as se n nt ga me be , rna PA tou US râ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the 30% of As we begin this yea tory. Did you know that his r ou s, in he d ac ha co r , eve es pir ve um competing then we ha u to our clubs, parents, ise involved? Thank yo erw is reflective of the oth It is e! or ton I/I les in mi g this yin pla in achieving ort pp su ur yo for PA our sport. volunteers, and the US visibility and attraction of the e g. rais to le op pe ny ntinues to be very excitin collective work by ma lo, and I/I specifically, co Po . uth row Yo a of in r ure fut yea the 3rd for the As we look forward, ues to increase its ranks ntin co ip, sh ol, an ho sm Sc ort le sp dd , Mi iques Our newest league, rules of the game, techn hes begin teaching the ac l serve these young co wil r ou re he ere ilt wh bu is is t is Th foundation tha e Th s. best, gie ate str g nin environment to be their horsemanship and win s are learning in a safe yer ed Pla op rs. vel ree de ca s lo ha , po an s Bowm players for their entire under the direction of Kri nt, me rs op cto vel tru De ins lo r ou Po d. re rs to ensu both on and off the fiel Certified Polo Instructo lled s ca he ac rm co tfo n, pla tio g ca inin rtifi In this ce a comprehensive tra to teach their students. le to ilab le, ava ls mp too exa st an be as tics, and coaches have the topics like Swing Analy refresh their skills with to le incorporated to provide ab en tly be tan s ns ha co gy are es. Technolo iqu hn ws tec r pe pro op vel ditionally, this program allo help their students de to improve their skills. Ad s he all in ac y co fet d sa an s the yer te pla lp promo instant feedback for cuss current topics to he dis d an te ora llab co to s professional coache y of vancement for the safet aspects of Youth Sports. d coaches, a critical ad an s yer has pla es for pir els Um l lev ll na ski sio of profes Besides improving n of the USPA. This group isio nt div iste C ns LL , co es fe, pir sa Um a providing our sport is due to the d national tournaments, an al to ion lism reg na ry, sio ina fes lim pro pre ort and been officiating our for their continued supp es pir Um r ou nk tha all game for all levels. We prove nagers, and clubs. in countless hours to im our players, coaches, ma portant. Our players put im is s hool lete Sc h ath Hig ntin de s stu ort r e their eff Recognition for ou s. We began to recogniz de gra ir their the by up ed ing niz ep og ke rec ve 97 players ha their skills, along with we r, yea is Th o. ag hip gram 4 years Intercollegiate Scholars with the Varsity Letter pro w its third year, the USPA No s! ds ort fun eff hip ir the lars ho for sc PA e r. Thos schools and the US scholarship funds this yea ing eiv rec s s! nd lete ha ath at ntgre de is in Program, has 17 stu . The future of our sport studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full time tuition the s orting your kids in their ard pp su tow e tly vid ec dir pro u go yo urs ho ss dle en all you for the our training programs at Parents, a special thank ibility very seriously with ns po res u! this yo e k tak an Th We . early polo careers. make I/I continue to thrive Manager e, energy and devotion tim k, ac db fee ur Yo y Fraser, I/I Tournament .

Am els lev tor ec Dir m gra Pro I/I tireless recognize ir year-round dedication, the In closing, I would like to for ge vid Da Ali tor gram Coordina Emily Dewey and I/I Pro ppen. sm to make the magic ha sia thu en d an irit, sp y, erg en !

18 Tournament Season hes for an awesome 20 ac co d an s yer pla r ou Best of Luck to all

David Wenning Chairman, I/I Committee

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2017 USPA MENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NATIONAL INTERCOLLEGIATE

CHAMPIONS

Roger Williams University George Hempt, Pedro Cabrera, and Daymar Rosser with Coach Ted Torrey and Brandon Reese

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Northeastern Regional Roger Williams University

Southeastern Regional University of Virginia

Central Regional Southern Methodist University

Western Regional Cal Poly

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2017 USPA WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NATIONAL INTERCOLLEGIATE

CHAMPIONS

University of Virginia Mary Collins, Katie Mitcham, Julia Smith, and Jessica Schmidt with Coach Lou Lopez

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Northeastern Regional University of Connecticut

Southeastern Regional University of Virginia

Central Regional Texas A&M University

Western Regional Cal Poly

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2017 USPA OPEN NATIONAL INTERSCHOLASTIC

CHAMPIONS

Maryland Polo Club Aidan Tydings, Parker Pearce, Brennan Wells, and Jack McLean with Coach Kelly Wells

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Northeastern Regional Gardnertown Polo Club - Varstiy

Southeastern Regional Maryland Polo Club

Central Regional Houston Polo Club - A

Western Regional Central Coast / Santa Barbara Polo Club

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2017 USPA GIRLSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; NATIONAL INTERSCHOLASTIC

CHAMPIONS

Garrison Forest School Emily Wiley, Olivia Reynolds, Lila Bennett, and Hannah Reynolds with Coaches Cindy Halle (R) and Kaycie Campbell (L)

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Northeastern Regional Toronto Polo Club

Southeastern Regional Maryland Polo Club

Central Regional Midland Polo Club

Western Regional Central Coast / Santa Barbara Polo Club

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WOMEN’S PRELIMINARIES Northeastern Preliminary Skidmore College

Southeastern Preliminary I Michigan State University

Southeastern Preliminary II University of Kentucky

GIRLS’ PRELIMINARIES Southeastern Preliminary Garrison Forest School - JV

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OPEN PRELIMINARIES Central Preliminary I Willowbend Polo Club

Northeastern Preliminary I Yale Polo Club

Northeastern Preliminary II Gardnertown Polo Club - II

Southeastern Preliminary I West Shore Polo Club

Southeastern Preliminary II Blue Water Creek Polo Club

Western Preliminary I Maui Polo Club - JV

Western Preliminary II Poway Polo Club

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

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Darlington Polo Club Blue Chameleons

NWA Polo Club NWA Red

Prestonwood Polo Club Prestonwood Red

Lakeside Polo Club Team B

Bluewater Creek Polo Club Bluewater Creek Red

Aiken Polo Club Enviroscape

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Garrison Forest School Drumcliffe

Marlan Farm Drumcliffe White

Gardnertown Polo Club SMU Mustangs

Barrington Hills Polo Club Barrington Hills Green

Central Coast Polo Club CCPC Blue

Bloomfield Polo Club Bloomfield Yellow

Houston Polo Club Rocking P

Maui Polo Club Maui White I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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ELIZABETH HEDLEY 16

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PTF MALE INTERCOLLEGIATE PLAYER OF THE YEAR Ignacio “Nacho” Masias Cornell University

Four years ago, I made one of the most difficult and most

university and continuing to play the sport I love. Back in important decisions of my life. During my senior year of high 2013, I thought I was ready to put polo as a secondary school, I decided to leave Lima, Peru and apply to universities priority and focus on academics. However, these past four in the US in search of a better undergraduate education. years have helped me realize that polo, and more importantly I chose to leave behind my family and an amazing place horses, will always be my passion. In addition, I/I Polo has where I could play outdoor polo regularly. Without making helped me form friendships that will last a lifetime. I have an official college visit, I went with my gut and decided met amazing people from intercollegiate teams all over the to study Applied Economics and Management at Cornell country. Furthermore, intercollegiate polo has helped me University. I did not know a lot about intercollegiate polo, but develop humility and respect for teammates, opponents, I tried to keep my expectations low. However, the day I got and horses.

I will always be grateful for what Cornell Polo and David to Ithaca and walked into the Oxley Equestrian Center and met my coach, David Eldredge, I realized how serious of Eldredge have given me throughout my undergraduate career. For the first time since I an organization I was joining.

This was a relief, but now “There is something unique about started playing polo, I understood what it meant to be a part of a my biggest problem was not intercollegiate polo ... There team. Cornell Polo taught me leaving my passion behind, is a different type of passion how to focus on the program’s but figuring out how to hit an goals over my personal success indoor ball. and sportsmanship that brings and understand that helping my I still remember my first players together...” teammates grow was the only indoor game; it was against way to assure long-term results. the University of Virginia in Collegiate polo has helped me redefine what polo means Charlottesville. I hit approximately ten balls out of the arena that day and everyone had to wait for me while I struggled to to me and consequently realize that going forward I will have re-do my horse’s tail in the middle of the arena. Although it to find a way to keep polo as a key part of my life. I want was a tough transition, I eventually understood and learned to continue to use polo as a tool to travel the world and to enjoy the indoor game. It is very different than outdoor meet amazing people. For example, last month I traveled to polo, but I was immediately captured by the fast paced Bogota, Colombia and played a 16-goal tournament with nature of indoor polo and the intense competition between three great friends. After all, playing competitive international tournaments and meeting new people is what I enjoy the universities.

I have had the opportunity to play in eight different countries, most about this sport. I am not trying to discourage young against 8 and 9-goal players and against 26-goal teams. players from going professional, I think it is an amazing But there is something unique about intercollegiate polo profession and there is nothing like pursuing your passion that truly caught me by surprise. There is a different type as a career, but going professional is not the only way to of passion and sportsmanship that brings players together continue playing polo after college. I currently have 4 goal and motivates them to fully commit to their team’s success. handicap in Peru and 3 goal handicap internationally and The amount of effort put in by coaches, players, alumni, and will start working at McKinsey & Co. in January 2018. I am organizations such as the USPA and the PTF is what keeps trying to travel and play as much polo as possible until I start intercollegiate teams running and essentially the reason why work. I am writing this article on my way to play a tournament in Paris and still cannot believe all the amazing trips and this tournament means so much.

Thanks to intercollegiate polo, I was able to find a balance opportunities I have gotten to experience thanks to polo.

Finally, I am so honored and humbled to receive the PTF between getting an amazing education at an Ivy League I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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Men’s Intercollegiate Player of the Year Award. I want to thank my parents because without their continuous help and support I would not be where I am today. I also want to give a special thanks to Joe and Tayo, two of my biggest role models, who continue to help me achieve my dreams on and off the field. Furthermore, I want to thank David Eldredge for being my first official polo coach. You have set the bar really high. Thanks for teaching me how to play indoor polo and for transmitting your passion for horses. I also want to thank all of my teammates from the past four years for some of the best years of my life. I ended my intercollegiate career playing with my brother, Lorenzo. We grew up playing together and I cannot wait to see him win the Intercollegiate Tournament in the next few years.

www.nycpolo.com Connect With Us at facebook.com/nycpolo

Play The Sport of Kings Just One Hour North of NYC! NYC Polo Club at Haviland Hollow Farm, in our ninth season, is a premier year round polo facility and a great place to play and be introduced to this exciting and challenging sport.

The 2017/2018 Polo season offers members league play and tournaments throughout the year. Our winter arena season is in full swing and II program includes both junior and high school teams.

For more information contact us at: info@nycpolo.com

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ELIZABETH HEDLEY 20

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NEW to NYTS! EAST VS WEST INVITATIONAL Hayley Heatley - Southern Methodist - ‘14

The

“Cory was an accomplished rider when she first picked up United States Polo Association National Youth Tournament Series (NYTS) was created to promote a mallet and took to polo quickly,” commented Jesse Bray, organized, competitive outdoor polo amongst youth players senior Team USPA member and one of the “West” coaches. across the country. Outdoor clubs host qualifier tournaments “I have coached her in the Pro Pool and Coaching League throughout the NYTS season (March 1 – August 1) in the past few years and you can see the passion she has for which All Stars are selected based on Horsemanship, the sport. She continues to improve with every opportunity Sportsmanship, Playing Ability, and Team Play. At the end of she gets.”

While competition is at the forefront of the young the qualifying season, four teams representing the different players’ minds, training is emphasized NYTS regions are selected to throughout the Championship weekend. compete at the NYTS National The Invitational players participated in Championship. In 2017, the NYTS Female participation a coached practice and a tournament program piloted a second level in the NYTS qualifiers game held before the National Youth of competition, the East vs. West Tournament Series Championship Cecil reaching 43.5% Invitational, with two male and two Smith Cup Final. They also joined the female players on each team. With Zone teams to have their swing filmed as the All-Star pool year growing each year, the Invitational was designed to give eight additional part of the Player Performance Analysis program produced by the USPA Polo Development, LLC. The filmed swings are players an opportunity to compete at the National level.

With female participation in the NYTS qualifiers reaching critiqued and saved from year to year to allow the players to 43.5% and female All-Stars comprising 31.3% of the eligible see their swings develop and progress over time.

Having experienced, relatable coaches is one of the magic pool, the NYTS Committee felt making the change to an all-female division would better represent the demographics pieces of the puzzle that makes the weekend engaging of NYTS participants across the country. The 2018 National and successful for the young players. Senior Team USPA Youth Tournament Series East vs. West Invitational will members Jesse Bray and Nick Snow helped coordinate the feature eight of the country’s top female youth players and coached practice modeled after Team USPA tryouts for the provide a forum for them to compete at the highest level of second level participants.

“I believe team coaching was really great for the kids. outdoor youth polo.

Cory Williams, a member of the inaugural winning “West” During the practice chukkers, I was out on the field with team, expressed her excitement, “I had a great time playing the East team giving them real time feedback and direction in the East vs. West Invitational last year. I think the all-girl while Coach Goodspeed was waiting for them on the NYTS East vs. West Invitational is a great way for young sideline to give them advice based on what he saw from his women in the sport to all get together to improve and play in perspective,” said Snow.

Former 7-goal player, Tiger Kneece, rounded out the a fun, competitive environment.”

Williams began playing polo several years ago in Santa coaching team. The East vs. West players reviewed game Barbara, CA in the Coaching League and has quickly grown tape with their coaches and cheered on their respective zone teams together. as a player.

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ELIZABETH HEDLEY Team USPA member, Jesse Bray, coaches one of the NYTS teams at the 2017 Championships.

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Chrys Beal, Chair of the Junior and NYTS Committees, said that it has been a dream of hers to have an all-female division at the NYTS Championships.

Amanda Snow, Director of Player Development, agreed with Beal stating, “Creating more opportunities for the female players really plays into the overall goal of the program. One of the main principles behind the creation of the NYTS program was to promote playing and competing with peers in outdoor polo.”

With 37 qualifying tournaments held during the 2017 season, youth players had many opportunities to play with others of similar age and playing ability.

“We hope to continue to increase participation and grow the program,” said Snow.

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ELIZABETH HEDLEY 24

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PTF DANIEL J. WALLACE JR. FEMALE INTERCOLLEGIATE PLAYER OF THE YEAR Julia Smith University of Virginia

“When I scanned the arena again one last time and checked my horse down, I reflected upon the endless hours I have spent practicing, watching, learning, seeking perfection.”

I

quickly turned my head to scan the field; the opponent player (Number 3) was roughly 10 yards behind me. As I approached the ball at full speed, I remembered my ingrained fundamentals: breathe, keep my head down over the ball, rotate my hips and left shoulder so that it is directly in line with my horse’s right shoulder. I extended my arm into the air, waited for perfect timing, and instinctively allowed my mallet to swing into a pendulum-like motion. As I gained speed, it made contact with the white ball. The ball propelled, its trajectory sent the ball soaring across the arena, as the final buzzer sounded. When I scanned the arena again one last time and checked my horse down, I reflected upon the endless hours I have spent practicing, watching, learning, seeking perfection. I saw challenges and obstacles that I have not allowed to deter my dreams and ambitions. Polo has always been a perpetual force in my life and as a female professional polo player it means extra dedication and determination. I know I have many fields and arenas yet to play in, many teams to play on, and many tournaments to participate in and ultimately, hopefully, win.

The intensity, the speed, connecting with the size and power of 1000 pound animal, has been thrilling and has always motivated me to continue to strive for excellence. My fifteen-year ride with polo has provided me with virtues that I can apply to all aspects of my life: perseverance, patience, leadership skills, work ethic. Without the I/I program I (a girl from the suburbs of Philadelphia) would have not had the opportunity to pursue my dream as an athlete. The I/I program helped me pursue and achieve my dream of becoming a professional athlete. I applaud I/I and feel well prepared to take the next step on my journey as a professional polo player on the Women’s Circuit.

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FELIPE VIANA - UVA â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;13

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Hayley Heatley - Southern Methodist - ‘14

Team USPA players and coaches aligned for two of the

most competitive tournaments of the year, the FIP World Championships and the USPA U.S. Women’s Open Championship. Team USPA members had a busy fall preparing and training to compete.

Every three years, the Federation of International Polo (FIP) hosts the World Cup Tournament which challenges over 80 countries to field their best 14 goal teams to compete. Over many months of qualifying games, the teams were whittled down to the top 8 finalists. The United States won their zone qualifier in April at the International Polo Club in Wellington with a victory over Mexico. With handicap raises and some conflicting player schedules, the United States had to realign their players to assemble a team to travel to Sydney, Australia where the FIP World Polo Championship was hosted this year.

Matias Gonzalez (2), Jesse Bray (Captain, 5), Felipe Viana (5), Jim Wright (2), Cacho Galindo (2) and Carlucho Arellano (Alternate and Asst. Coach, 5) comprised the team to be led by Coach Joel Baker. Having had success in the previous World Cup, Baker looked again to build on the foundation by having the team adapt to a playing system that he felt enabled them to play their best as a team. With senior Team USPA players Jesse Bray and Felipe Viana at the helm and FIP experience under their belts, it was vital for them to lead the way by showing the new players the system. Arellano was an added asset that brought years of high goal experience, FIP experience, and a positive energy that the players soaked up.

Thanks to the generosity of the Grand Champions Polo Club, the players came to Wellington, Florida for two weeks of intensive training in the beginning of October.

Despite heavy rains, players were able to gain valuable experience playing against top players who challenged them not only as individuals, but more importantly, as a team. Gonzalez and Wright gained experience learning the new playing system as Viana and Bray helped mentor them on the field.

The two weeks flew by and before the team knew it, they were embarking on the 32-hour long trip to Sydney, Australia. The team didn’t hesitate to jump right back into training as Wall Ashton, a local polo player the team had connected with back in spring training, organized horses for them upon their arrival. The connection with Ashton proved vital as the team was able to take advantage of the opportunity to continue working on game strategy and teamwork leading up to the beginning of the tournament.

To create more structure and routine, Baker chose a breakfast spot called the “Ugly Mug” for the team to gather each morning. It was here where they reviewed video, discussed position expectations, and worked on the horse list each day.

After a narrow loss to powerhouse Argentina, the USA team looked to regroup. Once again they utilized Ashton to organize a 3 vs. 3 game which helped sharpen the players’ reaction time and quicken transition plays before the next match. After evaluating the video from the first game against Argentina, Arellano suggested switching several of the horses within the team to better match the strengths of the individual players. Making this slight adjustment paid off; the American team bounced back to defeat the Australian home team 7-5.

Carrying the momentum forward, the USA team hammered Spain in the following match. Unfortunately, circumstances and results outside of the team’s control resulted in a trip to the bronze medal game against England instead of the final. The bronze medal game proved to be their toughest match yet, as the teams were back and forth throughout. As time expired the English players tied it up, sending the match into overtime. The USA team came out from the line up and attempted a difficult shot on goal, narrowly missing. A late call gave the English team the break they needed as they put in the penalty shot for the win.

“As you can imagine, it is not the outcome we hoped for,” remarked a humble team captain, Jesse Bray. “We felt prepared after training so hard for the past month, but that’s the way polo goes sometimes.” Bray went onto graciously express his appreciation for the opportunity in Australia. “The whole experience down there was incredible and the horses in the country are amazing. I applaud Australia, the horse masters, and horse donors for being able to put together eight fun, competitive strings.” It is no surprise that Bray was awarded the Sportsmanship award for the tournament.

Despite not reaching the goals they set out to achieve, the team came away from the experience with valuable lessons that will help their futures in polo. Team USPA continues to support the selection of FIP teams, as this was the second consecutive World Cup team with all Team USPA members.

While the USA team was competing in Australia, the inaugural Team USPA sponsored Women’s Open team was gearing up in Aiken. The team consisted of Julia I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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Smith (5), Tiamo Hudspeth (5), and Marissa Wells (5), three of the highest rated women’s players on Team USPA. They were joined by an equally talented Maryland native Courtney Asdourian (6). With Hudspeth busy working full time in her position training and playing young horses in Texas, Asdourian, Wells, and Smith gathered in Aiken to train with two of the best American players, Adam Snow and Owen Rinehart. There, they were able to work on strategy and build team chemistry before arriving to Houston.

Asdourian has been playing professionally for over 5 years now after graduating from the University of Kentucky. She has found much success in women’s polo and was very appreciative to join forces with Team USPA members.

Asdourian said she was excited to play with the Team USPA members “who are all eager and enthusiastic about playing competitive women’s polo.” Wells, the newest member of Team USPA, was a powerhouse in high school and has continued her success into college at Texas A&M. Hudspeth, a Hawaii native, has a long list of accomplishments with years of experience under her belt. She is a highly accomplished horsewoman who has trained top quality horses that have played some of the highest rated tournaments in the U.S. Smith’s resume is chock-full of tournament wins starting in high school and continuing through her college days at UVA. She also has had success in the Women’s Open Championship in previous years.

When all the players finally gathered in Houston, they were met by team coach Mason Wroe. Wroe was part of the founding class of Team USPA and has been a staple of the program ever since. With the experience and strong desire to give back as a mentor, Wroe was ideal as a coach as he provided structure to their training leading up to the tournament and guidance throughout. “He worked us hard!”

Hudspeth said laughingly.

Team USPA battled hard in each of their games, unfortunately coming short. Coach Wroe put it best, “They 28

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KAYLEE WROE

KAYLEE WROE

Current and past I/I players made up the Team USPA women’s team: Courtney Asdourian (KENTUCKY, MARYLAND), Julia Smith (UVA, WTR, BRANDYWINE, MARYLAND), Tiamo Hudspeth, and Marissa Wells (TEXAS A&M, MARYLAND)

were a 21-goal team going into a 26-goal tournament, playing against women that are the best in the business.

Obviously we wanted to win the tournament, but more importantly, we wanted everyone to learn and to grow from this, to improve and really show that you can put a team of four Team USPA women of the same handicap in a tournament of that level and have them compete and hold their own” Playing in the U.S. Women’s Open Championship has been a longstanding goal of the Team USPA program.

“We hope to continue to find opportunities such as these where we can facilitate a period of training with one of our coaches for the players before competing in a tournament. The goal is not just to field a competitive team, but to also work on developing their skills so they can continue to improve their game,” said Director of Player Development, Amanda Snow.

With Team USPA supporting teams in the FIP World Championship and the USPA US Women’s Open Championship the future is bright. Giving these players the opportunities to train and improve in such quality tournaments is vital for their growth and hopefully they will see the returns in years to come.

Texas A&M & Team USPA alum, Mason Wroe, coached the Women’s TUSPA team in the 2017 USPA Women’s Open Championship.

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JIM BREMNER 30

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PTF FEMALE INTERSCHOLASTIC PLAYER OF THE YEAR Molly Agee Lakeside Polo Club

I

began my riding career doing hunters and eventually he would play against me in practice like I was one of the eventing. As a young girl, my mom and stepdad, Jessica guys). Every year on my birthday he somehow managed to and Cary, would take me to the desert and I would watch pull me off my horse mid-chukker at practice. It might just be him play. As I grew old enough to play on my own, Cary a coincidence that it was my birthday every year, might not would ask me if I wanted to start playing and I would say, be. We will never know! Although it wasn’t fun to fall off on “No. Never. I will only jump and I will never play polo.” Little my birthday, it taught me to stay tough and not to play like a did I know, my stubbornness towards playing would not last girl as he always told me. It’s also pretty funny now looking long. Eventually he got me to play, and from that day on I back on it!

After many years of playing for Poway, my senior year I have been hooked.

I am so honored to be recognized by the Polo Training began playing for Lakeside Polo Club’s new interscholastic Foundation for this award. There are so many people that team. Kimo Huddleston coached us and he taught me so have helped me progress over my years of playing that I would much about being a good captain and strategy that really like to thank. My mom and dad have been so supportive taught us to play together. This was Lakeside’s first year and encouraging throughout my years of showing horses having an interscholastic team based out of their facility. and playing interscholastic polo. They have dealt with so The Bankhead family purchased the club in 2014 and much craziness over my years of playing and I couldn’t be they have put so much into our team this year. We spent hours throughout the week building more thankful for them. Our long road trips for tournaments and “We spent hours throughout the new arena so we could play.

My team being out in the sun all late night practices are some of the week building the new day weekend after weekend was the best experiences I have ever arena so we can play.” an experience I will never forget. We had. My stepdad, Cary Burch, actually had so much fun and it was has been a huge supporter of me since I finally gave in and decided to transition from eventing a great team bonding experience. Building our own arena to polo. I am so thankful that he allowed me to take on his made everything mean so much more. I am so thankful for horses. We played together for my first few years of playing all of the members of Lakeside Polo Club and the Bankhead polo and it was so great to be able to play alongside him. family for being so welcoming to me over the last year and Without the support and encouragement of my family, I a half. Although we didn’t get the results we had hoped for this season, it really didn’t matter to me in the end. I grew wouldn’t be receiving this award today.

Russ Sheldon is the reason I began playing interscholastic so much as a captain, and we all grew as individuals and polo. He always encouraged me to start playing as a young teammates. My last season as an interscholastic player was girl and when I finally did, he was such an amazing mentor one I could never forget.

Interscholastic polo has been one of the best things I to have. He treated my teammates and me like family.

The program he created at Poway Polo Club was truly have ever been involved in. It is truly an amazing program. irreplaceable. I know that he is looking down on all of us and I would recommend joining an interscholastic team to any is proud of not only how we’ve grown as players, but also middle school and high school players, or potential players. how we’ve grown as teammates and individuals. Russ gave I have developed so many amazing relationships and it gave me the courage and confidence to captain a team of all me such a great foundation for my future as a player and guys which definitely became difficult at times. Without him, contributing member of the polo community.

I would like to thank the USPA for everything they do to I truly would be a different individual than I am today.

My coach of many years, Billy Sheldon, has been such an create opportunities for young and upcoming players. The amazing coach to have. He coached me all through middle experiences and opportunities I had as an interscholastic school and high school up until this past year. He pushed player are irreplaceable. I hope to continue to grow through me to stay tough and would always encourage me to play the I/I program by starting an intercollegiate team at Point like the guys (which most of the time I had to do because Loma Nazarene University this fall.

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INTERNATIONAL INTERCOLLEGIATE CHALLENGE CUP

USPA I/I vs SUPA Britain Dalton Woodfin - Texas A&M - ‘17

The International Intercollegiate Challenge Cup was a once

mind, the first day was all about getting to know each other in a life time experience that I will cherish for the rest of my and the SUPA players, all on top of having two meetings life. I was humbled to represent my country, my university, that informed us on how the week was going to go. After the and the I/I as we battled it out against the SUPA players from meetings, the pros had a practice at 9 PM to try out George Great Britain. The United States Polo Association hosts the Dill’s horses. We were all a little tired from our flights, but we Townsend Cup in the United States every other year. The didn’t want to miss anything.

The next day, we arrived at the Barrett-Jackson Car show Townsend Cup is a high goal international arena polo match that has been played since 1923. In the Townsend Cup, to watch the Townsend Cup pros try a few more horses pros from the USA play pros from England in a 4 chukker and then suit up for our practice. Driving into that arena for arena match. About five years ago, the I/I committee the first time was unbelievable. There were thousands of cars packed into two huge barns decided to host another match and outside in tents covering the for spectators to watch the “I said to myself, ‘You are complex. I am a big fan of cars, same week. This match is the so to see that many in one place International Intercollegiate representing your country in is the same as when a kid looks at Challenge Cup which brings the sport that you love to play, candy. Right before the pros start four collegiate athletes from the getting ready for practice the group USA and four collegiate athletes how cool is that.’” decides to go check out all the from Great Britain together to different cars. Now picture this, all square off in a four chukker arena match. (in case y’all were wondering the record is of us are in whites and USPA Apparel walking into one of now 3-2 USA!). Something that the International Challenge the biggest car shows in America. We got stopped by a Cup does differently is every other year the players from the couple of people because they realized there was a polo United States take a trip to England where SUPA hosts the game being played this weekend but other than that we challenge. This year the USPA hosted the Townsend Cup got a lot of confused looks which was normal. After the and the International Challenge Cup in Scottsdale, Arizona. stroll through the car show, we started getting the horses The five-day trip consisted of a lot of polo, interaction with ready and preparing for our practice that was about to take spectators and players, and one of the biggest car shows place. I was not nervous until the moment right before we stepped into the arena. Yes, I said “practice” and “nervous” in America.

One interesting aspect about this match is the I/I brings in the same sentence. It didn’t feel like a practice when we four individuals together that play for different universities were preparing for it or when we started playing. It was such and have never played with each other, and asks them to a surreal moment as Elizabeth Hedley got us out into the play as unit. Honestly, it was so much fun. We had to lean arena to take pictures. I walked into the arena, and saw the away from playing the same as we would if we were with our huge USA flag hanging on the wall. I said to myself, “You are home teams at our university, and focus more on meshing representing your country in the sport that you love to play, each other’s strengths. I’m sure we had a few strategies how cool is that.” Then the nerves starting flowing in. The from each university combined into one. So with that in practice went pretty smoothly, the umpires were there to help I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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Liam Palacios of Cornell, backs the ball during the 2017 International Game.

behind the scenes with the high goal pros from both teams.

Seeing how they prepare for the big match throughout the weekend and comparing it to how I prepared really showed the difference between us.

The fourth day was gameday. We woke up early to eat breakfast and then we booked it to the arena to get ready to play at noon. My adrenaline was an all-time high the moment I woke up that morning. I had been so excited to play this match since I got the call from Amy Fraser and I thought to myself “finally.” All the preparation, hard work, and time spent throughout the winter was to prepare for this moment.

We got all the horses tacked and then got geared up for the opening ceremony and the first chukker. The opening ceremony was more intense than the opening ceremonies of the I/I National Championship. Thousands of eyes are

ELIZABETH HEDLEY

the SUPA players transition into the USPA rules rather than playing the HPA rules and we got to see how each other played, what position, who takes the penalty shots, etc. It turned out to be a good start for the weekend. That night, there was a big banquet for the teams. A lot of the polo people in the area came to chat with us. The polo world is a small world that brings together people from all around the globe and I think that does not happen in a lot of the other sports. It was amazing getting to learn about different cultures as well as how similar and different we are.

The Townsend Cup was played the third night we were there. If you did not see the game online and you play arena polo, you should go watch it on the USPA website because it was a great game. The USA team comprised of Tommy Biddle, Steve Krueger, and Shane Rice, ended up pulling ahead in the last minute of the fourth chukker 18-16. I have never seen so many spectators at an arena polo match; it was quite remarkable. A lot of them came to talk to us about polo because they recognized that we were in USPA apparel and had foot mallets and a ball.

They were amazed at the sport and thought it was really cool that we played it. The moment that is still vivid to me, is when the US team went up by two as the time winded down. The crowd went crazy, screaming “USA, USA, USA.” It was definitely the most intense game to watch because of the setting and the level that the guys were playing at. In my opinion, getting to see two of my role models, Steve Krueger (Texas A&M Alumn) and Shane Rice (Poway Alumn), in the Townsend Cup was the best part. I have watched them not only play, but excel on the outdoor fields practically my whole life. So getting to watch them play indoor polo for the first time was a personal favorite. It was interesting to be

USA & British Intercollegiate Squads.

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on you, as you walk into the arena. I have never had a feeling like that before. Our game plan was to have each person play three chukkers and I was the lucky one to sit down the first chukker. I actually liked it better because it gave me time to calm down and focus the moment I got into the arena for the second chukker. We were down or tied the entire game, but in the fourth chukker we ended up pulling ahead 15-13 with Best Playing Pony, Hurricane, owned by George Dill and played by Dalton Woodfin (TEXAS A&M) and about a minute Tobias Small (ROYAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY) remaining. Just like the night before the crowd went crazy screaming and this time it was because of us. gained a lot of great knowledge and new perspectives from Winning on a stage like that was an experience of a lifetime everyone I interacted with on this trip. I would just like to say thank you to everyone who put this together. Without and I would do anything to relive that moment again.

It was an honor representing the United States, USPA, I/I, your hard work, none of this would be possible. Thank you and my university. We had a great time and an unforgettable for starting this program and giving us the opportunity to experience. This trip was possible thanks to I/I Committee. I represent the USPA.

CHUKKER BREAK Manipaur Polo International Invitational Brennan Wells - Maryland Polo Club Brennan Wells from the Maryland Polo Club Interscholastic Team, competed in the 11th annual Manipaur Polo Internatoinal Invitatonal for Team USA. “Participating in the 11th Manipur Polo International Invitational has been a breathtaking experience. The people in Manipur have been very hospitable and the polo is extremely competitive.

I’ve really enjoyed riding the Manipur ponies and have had a great time meeting new people from all over the world.” Along side Brennan was I/I Alum Nate Berube from UCONN.

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PTF RUSSEL A. SHELDON MALE INTERSCHOLASTIC PLAYER OF THE YEAR Sloan Stefanikis Houston Polo Club

“My family in particular, has been supportive of any and every endeavour I’ve chosen to take on with full force.”

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas into a very close knit and large family. I grew up around

horses and exposed to all sorts of animals. I have always had a love for animals, but I truly did not get into polo until I was almost 13. It started with me and my grandfather, and slowly turned into an entire family ordeal. The next five and a half years of my life would revolve around the sport, and growing my passion for it each day. Today, I’ve decided to go to school at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, to continue with polo and study financing and psychology. My family and polo have been the center point to my entire life. My family in particular, has been supportive of any and every endeavour I’ve chosen to take on with full force.

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BE A FOLLOWER Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Just Going to Leave a Few of These Right Here...

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LIFE AFTER I/I Getting Back in the Swing Kristen Wenning - Colorado State - ‘13 Shallowbrook - ‘09

Polo is such an incredible sport.

so at least I was able to ride. A couple times each summer, The athleticism of both I got a little polo fix in thanks to Liv Berube, who allowed me horse and rider is remarkable. The players are opponents to groom in exchange for a few chukkers. I also visited my on the field, but off the field there is a big sense of comradery. good friends Jake and Laura Brown a few times when they For many, including myself, polo is an addiction. were playing down in Virginia.

I was very fortunate to learn polo from the late Hal About a year and a half after moving down to Maryland, Vita Sr. at Shallowbrook Equestrian Center in Somers, I got an email from the USPA about becoming an I/I Connecticut. I had been riding there for quite a few years, tournament manager. Although I couldn’t do more than one but my introduction to the polo world began in middle or two tournaments per year, I jumped on the opportunity. school with me picking up during games after Mr. V got I/I polo was such a big my brother and dad playing. part of my growing up Eventually, this turned into me “The excitement about the game that it would be fun to get filling in when they were down involved in the program a player and before I knew that I saw in the kids reminded again.

The potential it, I was hooked. I played all me how much fun it was. Each connections I would four years in high school with make were enticing, and wonderful teammates and a tournament that I managed made it also allowed me to stay coach who dedicated his all me miss playing more and more.” somewhat involved in the to the team. sport. I tended to do the When it came time to apply Interscholastic preliminaries and the excitement about the to college I had no idea what I wanted to do, but my one game that I saw in the kids reminded me how much fun requirement was that it had to be a school that had a polo it was. Each tournament that I managed made me miss program; there was no convincing me otherwise. Out of playing more and more. the colleges that I applied to and was accepted, I chose to The tournament managing brought me down to Aiken in the attend Colorado State University. Beginning my sophomore fall of 2016 for the first “Manager’s Boot Camp,” where we year until graduation, I was one of the vice presidents of the all gathered to discuss new rules and tournament conditions polo club. All of the officers of the club were very involved to make sure everybody was on the same page for the and were in charge of the horse care. Upon graduation, I upcoming season. It was great to reconnect with familiar had the very depressing thought that my polo career would faces down there, as well as meet some new ones. There not be able to continue. Where was I going to find a club were lots of events that weekend that everybody was a part that was affordable for a new college graduate? Especially of. One night at dinner I began talking to Jenny Schwartz, since I did not have my own horse. the instructor at Seneca Polo Club. It so happened that this After graduation, a job opportunity took me to Maryland. was not one of the clubs that I had contacted when I first Once I knew where I would be living, I quickly began moved into the Maryland area. When she found out where I researching what clubs would be around me. There were lived, she invited me to come play at Seneca one weekend. plenty, however many were not financially feasible, as I I immediately took her up on the offer. The owners of the also would have to rent horses each game. Grudgingly club, Wayne and Kate Briere could not have been more accepting the situation, I went about my business and filled welcoming and made me feel right at home. The arena and my time working. I found two horses to work for someone, I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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horses were incredible and it was affordable for a person like me. The games were clean and fun, but also competitive.

The polo community has many members, but it is a very small world. As it turned out, Wayne learned to play polo from Mr. Vita as well. When I found that out, I knew I was in the right place.

Through taking advantage of grooming opportunities and working horses in exchange for playing time, I have not only started playing again, but have also had the opportunity to play in a couple of WCT tournaments as well as the 2017 Feldman Cup, an annual tournament for I/I alumni. The connections I made through tournament managing led me to be able to play on a consistent basis and finally claim a home club.

My story is similar to many, and for a while, I was starting to lose hope and think that I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to play again for a long time. Thankfully, I was wrong. So to anyone who is having trouble getting back into the game, or is in a similar situation to what I experienced, my advice to you is to be patient and take advantage of any opportunity to become involved. You never know whose path you might cross that will help your goal of playing polo again become a reality.

Kristen Wenning competing in the 2013 USPA Central Intercollegiate Regionals her senior year.

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Play Safe..

Play Smart..

Play Polo.

Jess Downey - USPA Polo Performance and Education Manager

Google search: “Polo lessons in my area.”

Scrolling…scrolling…scrolling. How do you know whom to choose?

Thankfully, the United States Polo Association created a certification to delineate between the professional qualified instructors and others. Parents, players, and teachers alike benefit from the Association’s stamp of approval on their instructors.

Three years ago the USPA created the Certified Polo Instructor Program (CPI). For decades, the program was an idea in the making. In 2014, through the gumption of Polo Development LLC Executive Director Kris Bowman, the program came to fruition.

“Polo was behind the eight ball with other equine and mainstream sports certifications,” stated Bowman. “Players and parents today demand having a certified instructor in their industry, knowing that their time and money is going to a person worthy of teaching and influencing their children or them. Every Certified Polo Instructor represents the face of the USPA and the experience we want all players to have”.

Today, the program boasts over 85 certified and honorary instructors throughout the community. Players and newcomers to the sport can be assured that an experience with a Certified Polo Instructor will be safe, professional, knowledgeable, and above all fun.

The program prides itself on the rigorous steps involved to become certified. Instructors attend 3 separate events designed to both educate and test. Jess Downey, USPA Polo Performance and Education Manager, who has been with

the program since its inception recalled, “While developing the program, we quickly realized that a one-time visit with instructors wasn’t enough to really evaluate the myriad of abilities we take into account. It’s a balance of educating the instructors on USPA standards and seeing those standards put into action through their teaching ability.”

CPI Instructors are evaluated on their ability to perform in six key areas: Safety, Horsemanship, Professionalism, Polo Knowledge, Lesson/Group Control, and Teaching Skills. Instructors complete the following courses and requirements: • Rider, Facility, and Equine Safety • CPI General Knowledge Test • Polo Business 101 • USPA Umpire Test • CDC Head’s Up Concussion Training • CPR • Equine Welfare Endorsement • Two letters of recommendation • Recommendation to test from CPI Certifiers Together, the coursework and evaluation material insures that CPI Instructors are proficient in many areas of the sport and do not have a criminal background.

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to try new approaches in a safe setting. Cindy [Halle] and Paul [Kuhn] brought their years of knowledge layered in with the terrific new manuals and tools (like Coach’s Eye) from the USPA. The two days reminded me why I love to teach and reinforced the key concepts required for the Polo Instructor Certification.”

The value of having certified polo instructors can be seen when looking to sporting industries at the national level.

The Aspen Institute launched an initiative called Project Play finding “The value of trained coaches was established long ago by researchers, with one study (Smoll and Smith, 1992) UCONN Coach and Alum, Pat Marinelli (L) and Aiken Interscholastic Coach, Tiger Kneece (R), achieved finding that when coaches their CPI Certificaiton this fall in Aiken. Pictured with I/I Director, Amy Fraser. received training in skills and communicating effectively with kids, only 5% of children chose to ensuring the success of its teachers. Instructors are able not to play the sport again. With untrained coaches, the to learn from each other at events, a theme the program is attrition rate was 26%.”

The USPA’s investment in the future of the sport through repeatedly praised for. A community of instructors established through the program creates a network of collaboration and sound instruction creates a ground level platform to build commitment to continue the growth of polo.

POWAY POLO club wishes their Varsity and JV I/I teams In order to bring polo instruction to the forefront and keep up with Good luck in the 2018 Interscholastic Tournament sporting industry standards, the USPA worked with Chris Snyder, United States Olympic Committee Director of Coaching Education. The USOC has identified three key areas for a quality coaching and instructing including Professionalism, Interpersonal Skills, and Intrapersonal Skills.

The CPI program allows instructors to focus on these areas of self-evaluation and improvement in addition to passing the certification standards. Furthermore, Varsity and Junior Varsity team members: CPI Certifiers have created a network as Ian, Skyler, Niki, Taylor, Hannah, Maya, Shayna, Haley, Sydney, Maddie, and Michael mentors for instructors going through the program and offer additional support outside organized events.

Liz Brayboy of Yale Polo & Equestrian Center said, “The CPI Skilz Clinic [a training event] was a great opportunity to refresh on instruction methods and learn new tools. The session offered something for all levels of experience – from brand new coaches to seasoned instructors. A combination of classroom work, demonstrations, and interactive Year Round Arena Polo www.PowayPoloClub.com teaching sessions gave us a chance 46

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GET CERTIFIED 1 Attend the MATT BARAN

Instructor/ Managers Forum (IMF) Emory Coach Frankie Questel (R), and Barrington Hills instructor Nadir Kahn (L), attended the CPI Skilz Clinic in Wellington the winter of 2017, and later that spring acheived their CPI Certification.

2 Complete the online application

players for the future. By assuring newcomers have a safe and positive experience growth will be sustained.

Instructors are trained in all facets to succeed from business planning to emergency training to record keeping and more. The CPI program is inclusive in education and exclusive in certification.

“The opportunity for our coaches to become certified is an exciting development in our sport,” added Amy Fraser, Director of the Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Program. “In the three short years the program has been in existence we have already seen a positive impact on the youth players and horsemanship at tournaments. We hope coaches take advantage of this program to better serve our players in their programs and themselves.”

For more information about how to become a Certified Polo Instructor or find an Instructor near you, email Jess Downey at jdowney@uspolo.org

Is your Coach CPI Certified?

form and attend an

Instructor Skilz Clinic

3

Receive a Recommendation to attend a Certification Field Test and complete all

Online Coursework

4 Attend and pass the

Certification Field Test

5

Receive USPA Certified Polo Instructor Certification I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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CERTIFIED POLO INSTRUCTORS Level 1 Carolyn Stimmel Cindy Halle Josie Vidic Emmalyn Wheaton Savannah Kranich Jennifer Williams Molly Musselman Sheila Everett Elizabeth Holson Megan Judge Heather Perkins Kris Bowman Julie Empey Jenny Schwartz Kim Maguire Robin Sanchez Jorge Vasquez Scott Weir Ethan Galis Jorge Estrada Bobby Koehler Paul Kuhn Bob Ceparano

Tony Condo Frank Stubblefield Robert Lyn Kee Chow Hesham Elezaby Ken Cresswell Branden Van Loon Sue Lukashevich Stuart Campbell Peter Poor Ed Little David Brooks Erik Wright Mark Prinsloo Jeff Scheraga Sammie Uys Kelli Newton Posey Obrecht Mario Dino James Armstrong Megan Flynn Ernie Darquea Max Secunda Fran Finato

Ynyr “Khai” Agon Kit Collins Erica Gandomcar-Sachs Juan Vidal Nadir Khan Frankie Questel Mark Tashjian Minnie Keating Parker Scott Julie Powers Emily Dewey Tiger Kneece Juan Martinez Baez Kylie Sheehan Martin Estrada Patrick Marinelli Branden Alcott Liz Brayboy Alison Patricelli Jim DeAngelis Laura Goddard Hilary Blythe

Ed Armstrong Henri duToit John Gobin John Westley Juan Salinas Kathy Linfoot Kimo Huddleston Lezlie Hiner

Lizzie Beer Lou Lopez Mike McCleary Rege Ludwig Scott Lancaster Tom Goodspeed Trevor Wells

Honorary Adam Snow Barlee Flanders Cissie Snow Corky Linfoot Dan Keating Danny Scheraga David Eldredge Domingo Questel

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FALL FANDANGO Past & Present Robin Sanchez - USPA Certified Instructor & Umpire

In 2007 Will Tankard, a Texas Tech player, approached

Robin Sanchez, manager of the Brushy Creek Polo Ranch outside of Ft Worth, TX, with the idea of having a big weekend in the fall where college teams from the region could get together at Brushy Creek, have fun, and get all their required games played. Will even came up with the name - Fall Fandango.

And so it began. The first year, players and coaches, along with Sanchez, umpired the games. There were chukkers for the club members thanks to the Polo Training Foundation string, a big cook out, and some karaoke. The following year PTF, Sanchez, and the regional teams expanded the event, adding umpire training with Steve Lane, games for JV members, and a clinic for club members. Over the years, coaches Clyde Waddell (Texas Tech), Mike McCleary (Texas A&M), and Liv Stringer (Colorado State), along with varsity members of the powerhouse teams, offered instruction to newer players from colleges around the region. Cook

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outs and karaoke remained a constant and some teams from out of the central region, like Cal Poly, started to join in. Fall Fandango became a much anticipated event for PTF and Brushy Creek, and was the last event held before the unfortunate closing of the polo facility. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a great way to kill several birds with one stone: train umpires, play required seeding games, give instruction, and get JV and Collegiate club members more involved with the sport. The best part though, was the camaraderie that was built by bringing all the teams together to one location on one weekend. Everyone pitched in to help and to either cheer each other on or do some friendly heckling. The facility and strings at Brushy Creek really gave the event the ability to grow,â&#x20AC;? stated Sanchez.

After Brushy Creek closed, PTF and Sanchez moved the Fall Fandango to Houston for 2011 before it fell into a slumber. In 2015, at an amazing facility in Midland, Texas, the Midland Horseshoe Arena, the event was revived. This

time with Bradley Biddle taking over as the Umpire Instructor for USPA Umpires LLC. It was this year that Fall Fandango added USPA Circuit Arena tournaments to its roster and brought in Interscholastic Girls’ games. An inspiring talk was given from the highest rated female player in US history and author, Sunny Hale, who encouraged the young players to find their passion and attain their goals through hard work and perseverance.

In 2016, the event was much smaller and moved to Austin, with six teams participating and a clinic for club members.

To say the 2017 Fall Fandango was well-attended would be an understatement. Sixteen teams (including five colleges, six Interscholastic teams, and non-I/I USPA members) competed in fifteen USPA arena tournaments played in seventeen games over the course of the weekend.

USPA Umpires, LLC conducted an arena umpire training with Biddle at the helm again. The clinic focused on the new tournament conditions that are being used this season. The training offered “tune-ups” and improvement for previously certified umpires and also gained some new certifications for others attending the clinic. Biddle also did a rules review for all of the teams and coaches with plenty of question and answer time.

In addition to the umpire and rules training, Robin Sanchez gave an equine welfare workshop where students participated in body condition scoring, and nutrition and horse health care were discussed.

For Devan Groves of Oklahoma State, this was her third year at the event. “Fall Fandango gave OSU the chance to compete against multiple teams within the central region as well as provided various learning opportunities throughout

the weekend. OSU varsity teams and club members were all able to participate in a BCS workshop with Robin Sanchez and a rules review/Q&A with Bradley Biddle. Tess Sabatini and I were able to participate in the umpire clinic, which has given us the tools necessary to better our club by implementing umpired chukkars into our club member practices. Overall, OSU had a great time competing and attending all of Fall Fandango’s events and we hope to attend again next year.” Both Devan and Tess earned umpire certifications at this year’s Fall Fandango.

As it was Veteran’s Day weekend, the event also hosted three USPA Military tournaments, the Admiral Nimitz Cup, where each team in the tournament had family members in the Armed Forces. There was also a special veteran’s “salute” with flags from four branches of the US military and, of course, our nation’s flag. The players and participants thank all who have served.

Two Wishes Ranch, part of the Central Texas Polo Association, was the host site for the 2017 event. The Reeves family, who own the ranch just southeast of Austin, TX, recently built the new arena. Add to that plenty of stabling and a central location, and it proved to be a good location for the Fall Fandango.

Holly A. Wood of University of Texas has been on a mission to revive the Texas polo team. She was excited that this year’s event was going to be held in her backyard, “Fall Fandango.

There’s really nothing else like it. The dozens of people and horses involved at this tournament and competitive edge really inspired us. Robin Sanchez did a fantastic job organizing horses, players, and matches for everyone. The UT Polo Team is especially excited as we got to network at

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Players & Umpires take a time out during the game to go over a foul with USPA Head I/I Umpire & Arena Umpire Instrcutor, Bradley Biddle.

the event to spread the word about our club and help us to made possible with support from a PDI Grant, USPA Arena, get back on our feet. Above all, the great sportsmanship Marketing, and Armed Forces Committees and with help illustrated by each team who participated made us eager to from USPA Services department. come back. We look forward to next year’s Fall Fandango!”

This year Texas Tech played a local team for the USPA Sherman Memorial and the USPA Sportsmanship Cup was played in a game that matched CSU vs. The Central Region (players from A&M, OSU, and Texas Tech made up “The Region”). For many at Fall Fandango this was their first tournament experience, but we doubt it will be their last.

Incredibly helpful participation from the teams and umpire trainees and all of their volunteer efforts made the event run smoothly. Special mention in the “Above and Beyond” category goes to Dan Coleman, Karl Hilberg, Ariel Rodriguez, Sarah Coleman, Javier Insua, Doug Brunet, Gretchen Morris, Devan Groves, Tess Sabatini, and so many of the teams and university club members. An event of this caliber, that involves so many of polo’s future players converging from all corners of the Central Region, could not have been possible without the support of our sport’s governing to Riley, Coach Javier Insua, Lauren, and Taylor on your first I/I Season! body, the USPA. This event was CTX Polo would like to wish all teams Good Luck!

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Congratulations

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PLAY SUMMER POLO...

CALIFORNIA STYLE c a l i f o r n i a s t y l e JUNIOR CAMPS • WEEKEND CLINICS • TOURNAMENTS FAMILY POLO VACATIONS • HORSE LEASING

We are your full service “POLO TO GO” organization.

OUR CLUB FEATURES: Boarding for up to 100+ hours

On-Site Lodging

Region Wide Tournaments

80 acres located on the beautiful Central Coast of California 5 miles from the Pacific Ocean

Mountain Trails

Polo Lessons Weekly Scrimmages Horse Rentals Hitting Cage

Beach Rides Wine Tasting

Check our website for more details: centralcoastpolo.com

Megan Judge Manager, Central Coast Polo Club Coach, Cal Poly Polo Team 2320 Clark Valley Road Los Osos, CA 93402 megan@centralcoastpolo.com (805)-801-9410

Our clinics are broken into two levels, beginner/intermediate and advanced*. Each clinic will be catered to individuals playing experience and skill level. Arena and grass polo will be played with instruction from Joel Baker and FIP Coach for Team USA.

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RESCUE. REHAB. REPURPOSE. KARL KNAPP 54

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Pamela Flanagan - Southern Methodist Univeristy - ‘12

Culver Academies - ‘08

Rescuing a horse can mean many things. People can

have different interpretations of what constitutes “rescuing.”

Does it require the horse be in imminent peril? If so, how imminent, how severe? Does it require prolonged abuse?

If so, how prolonged, how repugnant? Where do you draw the line? People may have varying opinions on what constitutes a “rescue,” but I believe those who care about equine welfare can all agree the ultimate goal is to better the lives of horses in need. There are a number of ways to lend a hoof a hand. You can contribute time or resources to rescue organizations, take in older horses to ensure a comfortable retirement, or provide discarded horses with a second chance at having a future. No matter what route you choose, I urge those who care to find a way to help a horse in need.

The Issue In order to raise awareness, the issue, no matter how grim, must be addressed. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates nearly 150,000 U.S. horses are sent to slaughter every year to be processed and sold for human consumption. Old, young, injured, sound, this number carries no requirements.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) documented that 92.3 percent of horses sent to slaughter are in good condition and are able to live out a productive life. Dr. Timothy Cordes, a senior staff veterinarian with the USDA stated that the reason for the high number of U.S. horse exported for slaughter results from a surplus of unwanted American horses. This number can be mitigated by reducing overbreeding by uneducated breeders,

supporting rescue organizations, educating owners about rehoming options, and repurposing unwanted horses. This past year, my efforts have been focused on encouraging rescuing and repurposing the horses in need of a second chance.

Stella’s Story My eagerness to help these discarded horses began in October 2016 when I saw an online ad for an adorably awkward paint pony designated as “lot #743.” She was young, allegedly sound, and I knew that hidden beneath her mud-spattered exterior, was a flashy little filly. When I saw she was listed for only a couple hundred dollars, I called the number on the ad to find out more. I learned she was listed at just above her meat price ($0.50/lb). After learning of this little filly’s grim fate, I quickly made her the newest member of the Flanagan clan. She was no longer just a number, she was part of the family and as such she needed a proper name. Her markings closely resembled those of her newly acquired “sister,” a black and white boxer named Bella, and thus, we named her Stella.

Stella’s start in life may not have been perfect, but she now has a bright future ahead. When I rescued Stella, she was 3 years old, and had been lightly started. She was slightly underweight, but to me, she was perfect. She had little experience and lacked almost all basic skills, but none of that was a concern. What I valued was her sweet demeanor, her playful spirit, and our immediate bond. After purchasing her, she was sent to a quarantine facility to regain her health and to protect her future pasture mates from any illnesses she may have been exposed to while in the kill pen. After I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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nearly three weeks in quarantine and a clean bill of health, Stella was sent to a pasture in Texas to rest, relax, and spend the next three months (November-February) getting fat and happy. In mid-February, Stella spent 30 days with Joshua Hill, a friend and expert horse trainer who believes the best thing for a horse is a soft hand and a strong connection.

Mid-March I had her shipped to Chicago where we really began our journey together. We spent most of March and April riding in the arena. We worked on basic skills such as leg yielding, backing up, responding to the seat, cantering from a halt, lead changes, and at the end of each session I would do my best to desensitize her to various stimuli. My goal was to have a well-rounded, bomb proof pony. Soon enough she was stick and balling in the arena. In June she began stick and balling on the outdoor field and played in several green horse chukkers. In an effort to continue her desensitization training, I would often introduce her to new situations: tarps, loud music in the arena, and a pack of playful pups joining us during stick and ball work and trail rides. June-August was spent playing outdoor practice chukkers at various fields in the Chicago area. Stella played her first tournament game August 13, 2017, a Women vs.

Men’s Tournament held at Arranmore Farm & Polo Club.

There were over 200 people, tents, music, even flying Lipizzans. She performed better than I could have ever expected and won honorable mention for best playing pony.

Stella’s story and her continuing progress has helped me not only advocate for repurposing unwanted horses, but more importantly, she has helped me to lead by example.

As Mahatma Gandi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

How Can You “Rescue” A Horse?

I am often asked, “How can I help?”

One way to help, and the route I chose to pursue, is to make a discarded horse desirable. You do this by giving an unwanted horse a purpose, nursing it back to health, providing it with skills, making that horse valuable. Giving a horse value gives that horse a second chance at life.

My parents have always told me that the best gift they could give to their children is an education. They defined education in a broader sense, yes, a degree is important in today’s world, but they also found life experiences and manners as valuable components of their definition of education. I find the same to be true for my horses. When I work with my rescues, I not only want to teach them a valuable skill set, I want to ensure they are well equipped with proper manners and learn to be comfortable in various situations and environments. My goal for each of my horses is for them to be an athlete, a pet, and a partner.

Another option is to get involved with an established rescue organization. There are several rescue organizations around the country focused on taking in neglected horses and retiring older horses. Supporting a rescue by volunteering, fostering, or “sponsoring” one of their horses is an incredibly honorable and impactful way to give back. It is a great option for those who want to help, but may not have the time, resources, or experience to have a horse of their own.

CHUKKER BREAK Emi - Mia Bray & Tess Sabatini Oklahoma State When I saw the posting for this mare, I had to save her. She was quiet, sound, brave, and well-schooled to neck reining, all qualities I would want in a polo horse. I was able to purchase her in the name of the Oklahoma State Polo Club with the help of many generous donations.

When I went to the feed lot to pick her up, I was surprised by her poor condition. The beautiful, young, thoroughbred who arrived to the lot less than a week before was now skinny, scared, and sick. I even checked her lip tattoo to make sure she was really a TB. She spent weeks in the pasture at the polo club getting healthy before we discovered the gem we really had. On her first day under saddle, her training and talent took us by surprise. In a 20 minute ride, she was stopping, turning on her hind end, and doing lead changes all in a snaffle. She had no fear of the mallet and was stick and balling on the first day. As a team we worked with her throughout the school year. A team member Tess Sabatini gave her a home for the summer where she continued her schooling and started her on the grass. In July, Emi played in her first grass tournament, a 6 goal women’s tournament at Blackberry Polo Club in Illinois. We still have not discovered how or why this young, sweet, and well-schooled horse ended up in a feed lot bound for slaughter, but she quickly proved her worth and we are grateful to have found her.

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It is also imperative to remember to care for your older or broken down horses. The only situation more heart breaking than seeing a horse in need of rescue, is seeing one of your own horses in need of rescue. It is essential to have a plan for their retirement. If they are turned out somewhere, check in on them periodically. Be careful giving your horse away to people claiming to have a good home, often this is how older horses enter the slaughter pipeline.

Bermudez, Amy Vann Flowers, Brooke Wyman and Nicolai Galindo, Robert Payne Jr., Bernie and Olivia Uechtritz, Tica Bengston, Nancy Louie, Rachel Faierman, and Stuart Campbell. These players took time and effort to give an unwanted horse a second chance. Whether it is donating to a rescue, housing retired horses, or repurposing discarded horses, any effort put towards bettering the lives of unwanted horses is admirable.

Make Your Mark I have marked my rescue horses with a special freeze brand. This brand symbolizes my mantra, “rescue, rehab, repurpose.” My objective is to have a mark that can be easily identified if any of my horses ever end up in the wrong hands. Further, I do not want to hide the fact that these horses are rescued horses that came from bad situations.

Rather, I want people to see that these formerly unwanted horses have been repurposed. I want people to recognize the great potential that lies within these muddied misfits.

The Power of a Pony My goal this past year has been to bring awareness to the thousands of horses in need; to do away with the stigmas suggesting that horses in need of rescue are all old, injured, or crazy; and to promote rescuing, rehabilitating, and ultimately repurposing discarded horses. Stella has helped me to not only work on attaining my goals, but to do so by leading by example. For a long time, my polo related goals were to better my skills and to play all over the world. After rescuing Stella, my goals have expanded. I hope to continue playing polo, but to also give back to the equine athletes that make this sport possible. Stella, the once skinny little mud-spattered filly, sparked something inside of me and I will forever be grateful for the impact she has had on my life and my equine aspirations.

Ask any polo player what their favorite part of polo is, almost all will respond, “the horses.” Horses have been so good to us, it is important to return the favor. Be a voice for those who don’t have one.

Rescue Pony Pals This year I have rescued six horses, all with different stories, but all originally bound for the same unfortunate fate. All six of my rescues have turned out to be sweet, young, sound horses. The success of my horses makes me incredibly happy, but to see others get involved is equally as fulfilling.

Several friends in the polo world have also adopted or rescued horses in need: Jenny Alter, Rob Jornayvaz, Santi Torres and Allie Azzaro, Mia Bray, Ashley Busch, Tiana

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VIEW FROM THE CROW’S NEST Anthony Condo - USPA Certified Umpire

“The work can be hard, but it is oh-so-rewarding.”

It was January 2002 and I had just settled into a small

upstate New York town known mostly for its cavernous gorges, beautiful waterfalls, and a bustling winemaking industry that rivals the best in Europe and the Napa Valley.

I had just finished my graduate work in synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry down in Knoxville, Tennessee and unexpectedly received a job offer from the Department of Chemistry at Cornell University. Up until the offer came through, my intent was to enter the education program at Tennessee and get into teaching high school level chemistry and physics, as teaching had been a passion of mine ever since I can remember. However, the idea of a steady salary, medical benefits, and a retirement package was far too enticing to pass up, especially in light of mounting student loan debt and even more schooling (it had been nearly 20 years of education at that point – I wanted a change). I figured I could get back into teaching later if I really wanted to.

One of the big differences I noticed immediately from being a graduate student to being in the workforce is the amount of free time I found myself having. Graduate study, and particularly so in the chemical sciences, is very demanding on a person’s schedule. There are experiments to be done, papers to write, journals to read, proposals to write and funding opportunities to apply for, research talks and presentations to give, conferences to attend, and the list goes on. It makes for long hours and long days, and not a whole lot of free time to pursue other interests outside of science. Working a 9 to 5 job, I was left with large amounts of time I thought I could be doing “something else” and in particular “something new.” I wanted to take up a hobby that I had always thought about, but never had the means to do so, either because of time commitments or other financial obligations. It didn’t take me long to come up with

a few ideas: piano lessons (did that as a child, but gave it up in my teen years), flying lessons (this appealed to me earlier in life, but in my adult years I developed a fear of flying and a fear of heights, so that idea was quite short-lived), cooking classes (nah, I figured I can do that on my own with a few good books) … I GOT IT … horseback riding lessons. This was something my mother and I had done together when I was a young child at her veterinarian friend’s Thoroughbred breeding farm in New Jersey, but that I sort of got away from as a teenager. That was it, the lightbulb had gone off, and I decided that is what I would do with all of that free time. I contacted the barn manager at the Oxley Equestrian Center at Cornell, who referred me to the Physical Education Riding Program; a gym class offered by the Department of Athletics at Cornell to students, but also to faculty and staff, at a very reasonable price. Sure, I had taken some lessons with my Mom, but I was essentially a beginner. A really novice beginner (translation: really bad!). I was having fun and meeting a lot of nice people, and that is all that mattered to me at the time. As time wore on and this became a keen interest of mine, I decided to do some parttime work at the barn, cleaning stalls and feeding horses, in order to offset the mounting costs of the lessons I was taking. I also thought it would give me the opportunity to learn more about keeping horses and caring for them, since I thought maybe horse ownership would be in my future (little did I know how that would hold true). One rainy summer day I happened to be passing through the arena on my way to the barn and I saw a group of horses running around in what seemed like a great deal of chaos, but I noticed they were all more or less following each other from one end to the other. Then I noticed they all had something in their hands that looked like a long stick. Finally, I saw what they were all running after … a little white ball about the size of I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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a softball, maybe a little larger, and inflated like a soccer ball. My scientific mind starting to kick in as I analyzed the situation: “Well, it can’t possibly be polo, they’re not outside on a grass pitch … I don’t see any bougie women in big hats sipping champagne … nope, not polo… can’t be.”

Well, I was wrong. They were playing polo, and I decided I wanted to learn how to play polo, too. Later that fall, probably in November or so, I contacted the head coach of Cornell’s varsity polo teams, David Eldredge, and asked him how I could go about participating in the clinic for beginners that I had heard he offered over Cornell’s winter break. He responded back to me that for this year the clinic was full, but that he would keep me in mind for the following year. I was bummed, but I understood that I was late to the party – that the demand to learn the sport at Cornell was quite large and people got an early start in asking and reserving their slots, so I had missed out for the year. Then my break came, David called me a couple of days before the clinic was to start in early December, and informed me that he had a last-minute cancellation and wanted to know if I was still interested and able to commit to the clinic. I jumped at the chance and told him I’d be there the first night. That first night was one for the books. In the simplest of terms, when it came time for us to demonstrate our riding abilities at the walk, trot, and canter, I looked like a ragdoll on the back of that horse. It was the exact opposite of “pretty.” So bad, in fact, that I think if it were up to some of David’s assistants at the time, they would have asked me to leave and never come back. I think David realized my keen interest in learning, and my willingness to take some chances, and he let me continue on.

That is now going on 15 years ago, in what seems like another lifetime for me. In the season or two that followed and carrying on since then, I continued to play with our

local community polo league who come in on Wednesday evenings at Cornell, rents horses and equipment, and plays “pick up” polo for a night. This serves as a fundraiser for the program through weekly dues and serves to make arena polo available to the local community at what is ultimately a very reasonable cost or barrier to entry. As David taught me the ropes of polo, and of horsemanship in general, he realized I could be a reliable set of extra eyes, ears, and hands at practices. He asked if I would like to be an assistant to him on a volunteer basis, to help the teams out when he might need it. Since I found it to be so much fun and rewarding to be around the program, the horses, and especially the kids, I jumped at the chance to help out.

Through what became sort of a natural progression from where I started, I began umpiring our club chukkers and varsity practices in about 2005. This ultimately led to my first USPA Umpire Certification in 2007. Kim Syme, the I/I Tournament Coordinator at the time, asked if I’d like to help during the postseason with umpiring, so I had started doing that, too. Through the years that followed, I greatly improved my playing ability, my riding, and my overall knowledge of the game - and of the arena game in particular, playing and umpiring as much as I could throughout the seasons. In late 2014, I assumed the role of the Open Interscholastic team coach for the Cornell program and helped to coach them to two consecutive Northeastern Regional Preliminary Tournament titles in 2015 and 2016. At the same time, our Girls’ Interscholastic team was victorious in the 2016 Northeastern Regional, advancing to the National Championships in California. The kids were so excited and I couldn’t possibly be more proud of them for representing Cornell on the west coast.

Also during this time, the USPA rolled out their Level 1 Certified Polo Instructor program, which I was honored to be

CHUKKER BREAK Beachin’ It Cal Poly On a September weekend during the first weeks of school, the Cal Poly Polo Team trailered out to Montana de Oro state park for a one-night retreat. Both varsity players and new junior varsity members came out to camp. As soon as we set up camp, we tacked up and hopped on for a trail ride down to the beach. We cantered up and down sand dunes until we finally saw the ocean. On the beach, we galloped the horses across the wet sand, something some players had never experienced. Big Mama, one of the club horses, decided she didn’t want to stop and took Theo, a varsity member, on a joy ride to the end of the beach. After our adventure down at the water, we came back and let our showered ponies roll in the dirt. When dinner time came around, all the players sat around the fire making burgers and s’mores. We stayed up talking until the early morning and then took one last trail ride up the mountain. The view at the top was amazing; we could see the entire beach.

We even had some cross country excitement when the horses decided to leap over a small creek we passed. After the retreat, best friends were made and the new players and returning players became a Cal Poly polo family!

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TALENT WINS GAMES BUT TEAMWORK AND INTELLIGENCE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS. MICHAEL JORDAN

MIKE RYAN

Good Luck To All The I/I Teams 2018!

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invited to participate in in its first year of existence. After completing all the requirements for that in 2016, I have gone on the road representing the USPA to help different clubs and all levels of players to learn our sport from the perspective of a player, a coach, and an official.

So what can people newly involved in the sport, or wishing to be involved do to help? I will say this: through these 15+ years of being involved in polo, and in I/I polo in particular, the opportunities I’ve had and the friendships I’ve made are priceless.

I continue to look forward to the interactions I have with the many friends and colleagues I’ve made along the way, whether it is on the field, or off. My biggest recommendation to anyone participating at the I/I level today is to try and stay involved. The programs could almost always use your help in some way or another. Once you leave school, start your professional lives, settle down to start your families, or wherever your life’s path should happen to take you, the connections and friendships you make along the way are something you should value and keep close to you. The

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work can be hard, but it is oh-so-rewarding.

In closing, I’m sure I’ll see many of you around at games and tournaments this year and look forward to working with you all once again. My best wishes to all of the I/I teams as they make the push towards Prelims, Regionals, and Nationals this coming spring!

Intercollegiate Women's and Men's Teams

11 National Championships

Contact information: uconnpoloclub1@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH USPA MIDDLE SCHOOL LEAGUE Keith & Jack Whitman, Parent & Player Gardnertown Polo Club

“ All of the horses I

rode were amazing,

“ It was really cool that I made so many great friends at each of the

tournaments. We all had so much in common, especially polo, which we found out within 5 mins of meeting each other. I’ve kept in touch with everyone and really feel like I have a big group of polo friends now. ”

I feel like I “ Yes, improved 100%

throughout the tournaments. Playing with so many incredible players from around the country pushed me in ways I wouldn’t have been able to without those experiences.

Dencker and Danny Scott

at Garrison Forrest and

Palermo at Powers

Polo. Each had their own personalities and strengths but it made me realize how important amazing horses are.

the trophies or awards. It’s on my son’s nightstand where you might think a 13 year old would place an All Star or winning team trophy. Instead, what Jack values the most of the tournaments, and what he looks at for encouragement everyday, is a personal hand-written note from polo legend Tab Orthewein that she sent after the Saratoga tournament at Bloomfield encouraging him on his polo journey.

”

Our village is strong indeed.

Schwartz at

”

Bon at Aiken, Playboy

“ Our favorite memory of all the tournaments isn’t

Coach Jenny

Garrison Forest really gave me great advice on playing in tournaments.

Bloomfield, Bon

”

“ Coaches Bill are family.

especially Titanic at

”

“ I was also really excited

to meet Tab and Will Orthwein as I’ve heard how nice they are and how much they love polo.

”

“ What amazed me was Jack’s reaction when I asked if

he wanted to go: “Dad, it’s Aiken Polo Club. It’s Tiger Kneece. THE Tiger Kneece. Dad, come on, polo legend. He coaches the middle school team at Aiken Polo. WE HAVE TO GO.” I soon learned that like all professional sports, there are heroes to 13 year old polo fans as well and I couldn’t pass up an opportunity for Jack to meet his. It’s another reason the middle school tournaments are so important: they give the future of polo an opportunity to be inspired by the present.

“ Like all sports, passion

and love of the game start at a young age. It’s one of the reason’s why I think the middle school tournaments are so important for the future of polo. ”

”

“And in polo, as in life, it takes a village. We found an incredible village through the tournaments.”

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NEXT PLAY Cindy Halle Retires... sort of

Kylie Sheehan - University of Virginia ‘13

Garrison Forest ‘09

They say that the coaches in your younger years have

a profound impact on the rest of your life. There are many lessons that are brought to us through sports and being coached on a team. You can learn a lot about goal setting, hard work, resiliency, responsibility, teamwork, sportsmanship, and more. These are skills that help you not just in your athletic endeavors but in most situations that life may bring your way. A good coach can make an athletic experience invaluable and set you up for success in life.

Polo is an incredible sport where you learn to have a team relationship with other humans as well as horses. I feel lucky enough to have learned from one of the best coaches, Cindy Halle, who not only taught me to play polo and be a horsewoman, but also be the best person I can be. I am so grateful for the lessons she has taught me and I know that I will carry these experiences with me for the rest of my life.

If you have ever been in the arena with Cindy Halle, you can feel her energy filling up the entire place. Whether she is coaching, umpiring, or playing, you will most likely hear a simple two-word phrase echoing through the whole arena; “Next play!” When I had Cindy as a coach at Garrison Forest School, my team and I became very familiar with that saying.

If anything did not go our way during a game, Cindy wanted our team to accept what had happened and look forward to the next play.

In high school and in college at the University of Virginia, I applied the saying “Next play!” every time I played polo.

It was the phrase that helped my teams win a USPA Girls’ National Interscholastic Championship and two USPA Women’s National Intercollegiate Championships. Cindy’s favorite saying would play over and over in my head. It made

me try to not dwell on what had already happened and instead, direct all of my concentration towards being great the next time.

Many players who went on to be successful in their polo careers and beyond have had a very similar learning experience with Cindy. Anna Winslow played at Garrison Forest and then went on to play at Cornell University, winning championships at both of her alma maters. Anna was coached by Cindy at Garrison and still continues to consider her a mentor to this day.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today, as a player or in life, without Cindy’s guidance over the past 10 years,” recounted Winslow. “As any coach does, Cindy has all the passion in the world for winning the game, but her dedication to her students’ success outside the arena is what sets her apart.

She helped me through making the decision of where to go to college, she was always at tournaments to cheer for me and fellow Garrison grads, and since my graduation, she’s been supporting me in my endeavors with Team USPA. I’ll always be grateful that I stumbled upon polo through Cindy’s amazing program as Garrison Forest.”

Cindy has shown her passion for horses, polo and coaching over the years in so many ways and has touched countless lives, both human and horse. “For me it’s about the connection. When a kid ‘gets it’ or is proud of an accomplishment, when I can pick them up after a bad day, or they come to me for advice; that’s is what I love about coaching.”

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barn and then had an opportunity to groom for Bill Carter, the grandfather of I/I coach Megan Judge. She started playing polo at UC Davis and won four USPA Women’s National Intercollegiate Championships with her team from 1977 to 1982. During the summers she worked as groom at the Santa Barbara Polo Club. After college, she continued as a professional player in northern California and traveled around the United States to play ladies tournaments with great success.

Cindy seems to practice what she preaches and is constantly thinking about the “Next play!” in her own life. It is obvious that she is always thinking about how she can be innovative to better the sport of polo and those around her.

Her coaching days began when she got the opportunity to move to Maryland to run the Garrison Forest Polo program in 1986. Cindy noted that at that time there was only one USPA tournament and we played against all boys and mixed teams. She pushed for girl’s polo to be recognized and a separate Girls’ Interscholastic division started in 1991. From there, Cindy coached the Garrison Forest School Girls’ Interscholastic team to six national titles from 1992 to 1997.

In 1998, she was awarded Polo Magazine’s Coach of the Year Award.

Cindy chose to take ten years off to raise her own family.

When she returned to coaching at Garrison Forest in 2007, she saw how much the sport had grown.

“There were so many more girls’ teams and the level of competition had gone up so much. It was so great to see I

was so excited to become a part of it all again,” remembered Halle. She wasted no time and under her coaching, Garrison Forest took several more titles in 2009, 2011, and 2017.

Also during her time at the Garrison Forest program, she grew the program to include polo as part of the PE program for 4th and 5th graders giving every student a chance to try polo.

As the Garrison Forest polo program continued to be successful, Halle was persistent in coming up with other ways to improve the sport. “There was a need for another youth polo program in MD for non-GFS kids, so I started the West Shore Polo Club team in 2008,” recalled Halle. In 2015, the West Shore team won the USPA Open National Interscholastic Championship title in 2015. Many of these players have continued playing in college and have had very successful careers.

Perhaps one of the reasons Cindy is such a great coach is that she is always setting an example for her students and everyone around her. Halle is constantly working on improving her own abilities to be able to help her students.

She often participates in scrimmages and games against teams all over the country to help them sharpen up their skills in the arena. She has worked to attain a B Arena Umpire Certification. “I like umpiring because it is challenging and takes so much focus.”

Cindy clearly does not shy away from a challenge.

Having worked closely with Lesley Hiner and the Work to Ride Program over the years, Cindy saw an opportunity for

CHUKKER BREAK Give Back Charm City Youth Polo Club Just because Cindy has retired from Garrison, doesn’t mean she has given up coaching! Cindy still remains the coach for the West Shore Polo team and is the coach of the Charm City Youth Polo Club. “Founded in Baltimore in 2017, Charm City Youth Polo Club is an athletic and leadership development program engaging Baltimore’s youth in the sport of polo. Charm City Youth Polo Club was founded with one idea- to make polo accessible to all.” Along side Cindy, is I/I Alum Elena Wicker of Cornell, giving her time to teaching and coaching the students. Listed in Charm City’s goals is to have competitive Middle School and Interscholastic teams. Keep an eye out for them in 2018!

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Garrison Forest School Polo to help disadvantaged youth in Baltimore. She partnered up with Garrison Forest’s Middle Grades Partnership program to allow inner-city youth girls from Baltimore an introduction to riding and polo. Most of these girls had never seen a horse in real life and some have continued to stay very involved. Most recently, Cindy has helped create the Charm City Youth Polo program for disadvantage youth alongside Randy Carrington and they are hoping to compete in Middle School tournaments next fall.

The United States Polo Association recognized that Cindy is a stellar coach and a leader in this sport. They approached Halle about becoming a part of the Certified Polo Instructors program and she jumped on it. “I feel it is so important for this sport to have educated, capable and safe instructors. I think my passion for this stems from having not had access to this kind of instruction when I was starting out in the sport.”

She now regularly teaches USPA Skills Clinics geared towards improving instructors teaching methods and abilities. She also is a Certifier for the United States Polo Association Certified Polo Instructors Field Tests and she regularly teaches clinics for I/I and club teams. “I like the CPI program because of the people I meet and the enthusiasm they have for the sport and for teaching polo. I appreciate the fact that they have the desire to get better.”

They say that “Winning takes talent; to repeat takes character.” Cindy clearly exhibits this winning character and has been able to instill it into her students. As Cindy coaches “Next play!” on the field, it resonates with her students and herself even when they leave the stables. She is constantly pushing for those around her to better themselves and leads by example. She teaches her students to “control the controllable.” To be on time, have your tack and horses looking good and ready, be prepared and to behave well while competing and performing. “I like pushing my kids to be the best they can be but I value sportsmanship and attitude above all else. I know that it’s the journey that is more important than the destination and that kids will remember the dumb and silly stuff long after scores.”

The sport of polo has benefited greatly from Cindy and we all know that she will continue to come up with the “Next play!” to make the sport we all love so much even greater.

I know that personally, I feel so lucky to have had Cindy as a coach and continue to value her immensely as a mentor, role model, and friend. She has taught me some very important lessons. Now anytime a new challenge comes up in my life, I can appreciate the memories and experiences that I have had, but am never afraid to push myself onto that “Next play!”

Garrison orest Schoo 2 17 United States Po o Association’s Gir s’ Nationa Interscho astic Champions Garrison Forest School is one of only two girls’ schools in the United States to offer polo. Our polo players live, learn and excel in their sport on our 110-acre campus in Maryland.

PLAY LIKE A GIRL. Visit GFS.ORG / POLO to learn more about what our program has to offer.

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CHERIE LAYTON

MEET DEVAN GROVES Oklahoma State Polo Club President & Team Captain, USPA Intern Justin Powers - USPA Director of Club Development

As Director of Club Development, I am presented with the

opportunity to work with clubs across the country and meet many different people from various walks of life that have fallen in love with the sport of polo. An anthem I continually sound is that “People get People into Polo.” Whether it is a friend, a family member, or a stranger, someone is responsible for providing that first polo experience to us all.

A few years back Nadir Khan, a now USPA Certified Polo Instructor based in Barrington Hills, IL, was looking for some part time summer help grooming for him and a few of the club members at Barrington Hills Polo Club. He placed an ad in a local newspaper that captured a few leads including Devan Groves, a then high school student, and the rest was history. Soon after, Devan’s first Polo Experience was set in place and a summer job turned into a passion. Devan started 70

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out learning the finer points of polo pony care and grooming and then moved on to learning to play and practice with the Barrington Hills Club and Polo School.

Approaching the beginning of her Senior year, she gained her first I/I experience by participating in a “make-shift” Interscholastic team. Her initial experience in I/I would shape her choices in higher education moving forward; knowing she wanted to continue to play polo at the collegiate level.

Today, 42 colleges and universities offer polo, including Oklahoma State University.

When I think of Oklahoma State University and sports I think of Barry Sanders dazzling Cowboy fans by juking his way to a Heisman trophy, Eddie Sutton returning to his alma mater to bring OK State basketball back to prominence and leaving his name on their home court, and head football

coach Mike Gundy going viral before it was cool, when he lashed out at a reporter for criticizing one of his players uttering the now famous line “Come after me! I’m a man! I’m forty!”

When I first learned Oklahoma State had a polo team, I was initially shocked I never knew this having spent some time in Oklahoma working for Chesapeake Energy. When I found out how long their student-run program had been in existence, I was floored. Enter Devan Groves, stage left, who made her way from a suburban Chicago neighborhood to Stillwater, Oklahoma because of one thing, polo.

I first met Devan on a joint Club Development/ I/I trip to OSU in September of 2015 with coworker Emily Dewey.

Devan was the president of the club, and Emily and I were both impressed with her leadership and all the students’ commitment to sustaining their student run program. Soon after that trip to Stillwater two events would happen that would serve as the plot for this article.

First, the Great Plains Circuit Governor David Ragland would join the Polo Development LLC board and we began to discuss structuring and developing the Polo Development Intern program (David would later take on the role of Chairman of the Polo Development Intern Sub-Committee of the Club and Membership Development Committee).

Second, high winds would level the Oklahoma State’s polo barn. The program is a student run program and their barn was built by the OSU Polo players ahead of them and was now a huge hurdle for the current squad.

Over the next few weeks, the Polo Development staff were on many conference calls with David and Devan troubleshooting the Oklahoma State barn (and now land situation). Devan showed excellent leadership during the entire process. Exemplifying poise, a much-needed skill in the polo world, and one that Nadir used to describe Devan after a recent visit back to her polo roots.

Fast forward to November of 2016, the Polo Development team hosted the annual Instructor Manager Forum in Houston, TX. David Ragland attended not only as a Polo Development Board Member, but also as the club owner of the newly formed OKC Polo Club. Devan, now a junior, accompanied David on the trip and participated in the threeday forum and an idea began to develop that Devan would be a perfect candidate for the Polo Development Intern program. A thought shared by the entire Polo Development staff.

After the Spring 2017 semester wrapped up Devan began interning at the newly formed OKC Polo Club for the late spring and summer season. The focus of her internship was to manage a string of polo school lesson horses and organize and manage the OKC Polo School Program with a special emphasis on youth polo. While interning she was also able to complete an Instructor’s Skilz Clinic with a recommendation to move forward to certification testing in 2018.

At the beginning of this article I mentioned the quip “People get People into Polo.” The follow up question to that statement is how do we keep young people in polo as they exit the ranks of I/I? One answer is the Polo Development Intern program. Devan, along with other graduates of the intern program before her, has set personal goals of building a career in the sport of polo and giving back to a sport that has given them so much. As a staff member of the USPA, I look forward to helping Devan achieve her goals.

The Intern Program is a great bridge for people to develop the networking skills to stay in the sport as a young adult, but like all great things in life, there are only finite opportunities and resources for such a program. While the opportunities are not limitless, the focus and core concepts of the Intern Program can be expounded to support all graduates of Intercollegiate programs looking to stay involved in club-

CHUKKER BREAK Retired Race Horse Project Charlie Caldwell - Blue Water Creek Charlie Caldwell and his brother Harry from the Blue Water Creek interscholastic team, were both first time entries into the Retired Racehorse Project’s Polo Division. Charlie’s OTTB for the Makeover was Old Tavern. He entered the Saturday Finale as the leader in the polo division and dazzled not only the polo spectators, but also the general public as he and Old Tavern went on to win the 2017 title of America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred and the accompanying $10,000 prize.

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ELIZABETH HEDLEY

Through the encouragement of her Coach David Ragland (L), Devan has been active within the USPA, attending the annual Instructor’s Manager’s Forum, and is currently working towards achieving her Certified Polo Instructor Certification (CPI). Devan was also selected to compete on the USPA’s International Intercollegiate Team, representing the USA vs SUPA Britain for 2018.

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level polo: build your network, learn the basic polo management and horsemanship skills, and be willing to lend a hand as much as possible, even if its only in return for some saddle time or a chukkar or two.

The late Merle Jenkins, the former patriarch of polo in Detroit and a dear friend of the Powers family, used to tell all young players from Michigan and Michigan State (including Polo Development staff Emily Dewey and Certified Instructor Emmalyn Wheaton) that he had “one chukkar for you” even if you had just dropped by with no plan to play. Again, “People get People into Polo” but “Great People keep People in Polo”.

Thank you to Nadir for introducing Devan to the sport of Polo, David for guiding us to include her in our intern program, and Devan for doing the easiest thing of them all, fall in love with this great sport.

We look forward to her getting new people into the sport and keeping those people in the sport they will inevitably fall in love with.

For more information about the Intern Program or how to stay involved in polo after you graduate feel free to reach out to me at jpowers@uspolo.org or (330) 692-0062

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OXFROD POLO CHALLENGE Tianjin, China As a youth playing interscholastic polo, my first coach

introduced me to Winston Churchill’s quote, “A polo handicap is your passport to the world.” I found myself always yearning for this possibility, but never expecting to be able to travel through an Interscholastic/ Intercollegiate polo career. However, this became a reality for me and other members of the University of Connecticut Polo Team as we traveled 6,800 miles to compete in the Oxford Challenge in Tianjin, China.

The Oxford Polo Challenge is hosted every summer at the Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club. The tournament, which originally began as the London Challenge, is renamed each year after the previous year’s winners.

Teams are brought in from the United States and the United Kingdom to compete against each other in an outdoor polo tournament.

The teams are hosted at the club’s hotel, and are shuttled to the stables and practice fields for horse trials, and game fields for the matches.

This experience showed a different side of collegiate polo. Being an intercollegiate polo team in the U.S. means playing primarily arena polo with limited grass time. This trip gave some of our members the opportunity to play on grass for the first time. Along with learning on the field, those interested were allowed to accompany the vets on their early morning rounds through the barn. This provided a particularly special experience for those of our players who are currently enrolled in a prevet program. This trip also facilitated connections between the U.S. and U.K teams, opening up more cross over and communication between the U.S. and U.K. college polo teams, as Oxford University travelled over to play Harvard for an exhibition match in September of this year, and has reached out to other colleges in regards to potential games in the future. The U.K. teams have begun assembling an alumni network now residing the U.S. to represent their team abroad. We hope to keep these connection lines open and branch the gap between college polo in the U.S. and the U.K..

Along with forging new connections and friendships, this trip was not solely about polo, but also a cultural experience.

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Anders Carlton - UCONN ‘19

Many had never fathomed the thought of being able to travel to China, but presented with the opportunity, the UConn Team seized it by taking every opportunity to emerge into the culture. Many visited the Great Wall, and certain members even decided to stay after the trip to visit different parts of China, all of which had distinctly different cultural vibes.

One of the most interesting aspects of the trip was the Junior Equestrian Program, or JEP. Through this program, the youth of China learned to play polo with the aid and advise from the college students, both teaching with foot mallets and on horseback. This really hit home for the UConn Team, as teaching the community polo has always been a large philanthropic aspect of being on the UConn team.

Members volunteer to assist with a range of lessons from beginner to advanced during the school week.

It was great to be able to use these skills abroad to share our love of the sport, and particularly while teaching young people, as the colleges are helping to fuel the future of polo across the globe.

Another compelling aspect of the JEP program was that it also set aside time for the colleges to hold a conference to discuss what each has to offer and to answer questions the young polo players have. Many of these youths will be applying to colleges in the U.S. and U.K. so the information was helpful to their decision making process and extremely valuable for building UConn’s network. By personally engaging with these young minds, we could explain that when choosing a college, it is best to chose the school that best suits your personal needs. This opportunity allowed us to explain our program thoroughly.

Overall, this trip has been described as “the trip of a life time” by most, if not all, who attend. On the field it was fiercely competitive, but there were clearly no hard feelings off the field; I have never seen a group of college players bond faster than on this trip. It truly was a wonderful learning opportunity in more ways than one, between being taught by professional polo coaches, the academic aspects of attending morning vet rounds, and the cultural learning, no one left without gaining some new aspect of knowledge.

For this incredible experience we have the Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club to thank.

Virginia Polo Inc. @the University of Virginia

For over 60 years Virginia Polo has offered polo to University of Virginia students. Through the years, over 600 students have shared the responsibility for the management, athletic success and national reputation of the organization.

OUR MISSION

Virginia Polo Inc. 1082 Forest Lodge Lane Charlottesville, VA 22903 434-979-0293

Email: info@vapolo.org Website: www.vapolo.org

Head Coach: Lou Lopez

The mission of Virginia Polo is to provide both men and women from all walks of life the opportunity to experience the sport of polo. The program strives to instill in each individual the merits of hard work, responsibility, teamwork, and horsemanship. In exchange we offer students in Middle School, High School, and College the ability to compete on a regional and national level.

OUR ACHIEVEMENTS INCLUDE: 11 MenÕs National Titles (27 trips to the Þnals) 9 WomenÕs National Titles (19 trips to the Þnals) 10 Intercollegiate Player of the year awards 46 All-American Players *Photo credit to Elizabeth Hedley, Mike Ryan and others I/I MAGAZINE - 2018

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2017 I/I TEAM ROSTERS OPEN BATTLEFIELD Amy Kim Jasmine Davis Harrison Thomas Allyssa Morgan Chris Wolf Annie Pond BEING THE CHANGE Savanah McFarland Zackary Coleman Thomas Phelps BLOOMFIELD- EPIC Morgan Palacios Taylor Palacios Lael Cashen Matthew Byrne

COWTOWN-WTR Marc Harris Malachi Lyles Julian Penados COWTOWN - WTR JV Kaela Prescott Justin Hall Esteban Penados COUNTRY FARMS Vlad Tarashansky Lior Avshalomov Kurt Mion Jed Cogan

BLOOMFIELD- EPIC JV Connelly Cashen Freling Smith Chris Veitch

CULVER James Wyatt Armstrong Bryson Bankston Cipriano Echezarreta Robson Macartney Alexander Roth Robert Wald

BLUEWATER CREEK Charlie Caldwell Harry Caldwell Ry Koopman Elizabeth Walker

ELDORADO Rhandy Heredia Athena Malin Hope Kerley Tom Costello

BLUEWATER CREEK PS Gracie Brown Carson Freeland Jacob Wallace Zachary Wallace

GARDNERTOWN Pierre Chaux Matt Forbes John Dencker Joe Post

CEDAR VALLEY Phil Hunter Van der Burgt Kenzie Ridd Nicole Jaswal

GARDNERTOWN II Matteo Chaux Winston Painter Nick DiValentino

CENTRAL COAST/SB Luke Klentner Jake Klentner Charlie Walker

HORSE PARK Sid Sharma Amy Lang Augusta O’Ferrall Josh Barraza

CORNELL Kevin Gardner Michael Koski Hannah Roman 76

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HOUSTON Sloan Stefanakis Grayson Price Anson Moore Joe Mack Stimmel HOUSTON JV Nathan Jackson Joseph “Reid” Devetski John Womble Charlie Fridge LAKESIDE VARSITY Molly Agee Skylar Dale Garrett Bankhead LAKESIDE JV Thalia Postins Franchesca Johannsen Abby Purdy Ethan Bankhead MARYLAND Jack McLean Brennan Wells Parker Pearce Aidan Tydings MAUI VARSITY Hana Diller Conner Jenkins John Kirton MAUI JV Carmen Sauer Kaya Acker Maika Panzarini Gavin Marshman

MYOPIA/STAGE HILL Grace Grotnik Reed Miller Beatrice Pforr Chloe Irvine James Grayken OC Kayla Elliott Ella Horton Jack Gaon Hudson Sirjani Madelyne Lundberg POWAY Maddie Graydon Niki Mobtaker Andrew Scott Ian Schnoebelen POWAY JV Mikayla Chapman Shayna Chapman Gwen Bennett Taylor Nasland Michael Proulx PRESTONWOOD Vaughn Miller Jr Vance Miller III David Werntz Jr Javier Cortez PRESTONWOOD - RETAMA Cinderella Von Falkenhausen “Qui Que” Enrique Tomas Garcia William Walton Michael “Harrison” Azzaro

SAN DIIEGO SURF MIDDLESEX - BOSTON Jack Empey Drew Hobscheid Ben Bruce Paige Kufahl William Tuttle Leo Diaz Hayden Habien Elizabeth Owens SAN DIIEGO SURF JV Fiona Sills Kylie Kufahl Delaney Bates Hannah Stock Daschle Dunne David Kral

CAL POLY

WISHES ALL THE TEAMS

GOOD LUCK IN THE 2018 SEASON

Hey! Interested in playing?

• Cal Poly ranked No.1 public, master’s-level University by U.S. News World Report’s America’s Best Colleges • Play year-round • 24 dedicated school horses • Play 7 days a week • Professional, full time coaching & instruction • Host of the Central Coast & Santa Barbara Interscholatic

For admissions info contact:

Megan Judge

Coach, Cal Poly Polo Team (805)801-9410 www.animalscience.calpoly.edu/currentstudents/polo-team I/I MAGAZINE - 2018 77

SOUTH BAY Toby Watters Justine Efcavitch Anya Moturi Ajay Moturi

WESTCHESTER/NEWPORT Rohan Sampath Caroline Rex Hannah Stowe Teghan Torrey

WEST SHORE Sarah Lynch Louisa Huber William Green Pelham Hardie Sofia Longenecker Jack Magruder

WILLOW BEND Maxwell Beuck Clark Mayer Olivia Uechtritz

VIRGINIA JRs Johnny Moore Nathan Church Jim Deal YALE Emma Glynn Digvijay Singh Noah Fioravanti Oliver Wieser

GIRLSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; BATTLEFIELD Natalie Rauch Mary Kate Santos Maris Jones Emmie Golkosky Abigail Irwin CEDAR VALLEY Hailey Van der Burgt Catie Van Bakel Tiffany Armstrong Sabrina McLennon Melanie Fraser CCPC / SANTA BARBARA Cory Williams Mia Sweeney Petra Teixeira Andie Rupprecht Taylor Olcott Sabrina Morelli SIMSBURY Anne Ebersold Hayley Wheatley Ruth Burke Anna McCarthy CORNELL Megan Cook Aliah Debejian Jasmine Umrigar Freida Witmer

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CULVER Ashley Dillard Mikayla Hay Yi-Ting Lu Morgan McBride Isabel Rhinehart Emma Vigy GARDNERTOWN Sophia Neis Jaidyn Scott Elizabeth Leudesdorff Katie Kriege GARRISON FOREST Lila Bennett Emily Wiley Hannah Reynolds Olivia Reynolds GARRISON FOREST JV Katharine Williams Kaylin Bender Cailin Phebus Claire McMahon Lindsey Morris Gabriella Chiasera HILLSIDE Samantha Oswald Emma Sbragia Sydney Weise Taylor Nackers Kristen Dillon

HOUSTON Madison Outhier Joanie Jackson Cara Kennedy Phebe Vargas ERG Grace Burgert Grace Mudra Bridget Price Grace Parker MARLYAND Abbie Grant Sophie Grant Catie Stueck Maddie Grant Isabelle Conover MARYLAND REBELS Jodan Peterson Josie Dorsey Grace Beck Grace Fleischmann MARYALND JV Zoey Bivalacqua Eva Crossman Marina Mecinski Madelyn Blum MAUI Keala Panzarini Alana Benz Sunny Diller Maya Miller

MIDLAND Avery Evans April Galindo Hollis Hightower Madison Lange Audrey Scott MOUNTAIN VIEW Lea Jih-Vieira Lauren Rapp Willow Longerbeam SOUTH BAY Hannah Smith Claire Kennedy Natalie Clark Samantha Deachryver TORONTO Clare Hearn Jenna Tarshis Molly Houlton Clare Littlechild TRIANGLE Tatiana Wolf Bella Hamon Natalia Hernandez Carson Tucker YALE Dominique Luca Claire Wieser Nefes Pirzada

WOMEN ALFRED STATE Abigail Campbell Cassandra Vanduser Gwendolyn Shear Sarrah Matla CAL POLY Miriam Flock Hannah Heitzig Bridget Hobscheid Fiona McBride-Luman Trista Noland Maggie Papka Jillian Tietje Leah Torres COLORADO STATE Mariel Bialy Grayson Greening Amelia Haddad Raeann Magill Kelsey Naftel Kaitlyn Stiles CORNELL Gillian Cowley Emma Eldredge Shariah Harris Hannah Noyes Anna Ullmann

MONTANA STATE Elizabeth Johnson Kasee Lawson Thea Sherwood OREGON STATE Cara Boucher Ally Lowe Annie Wells SMU Shali Diaz De Leon Maggie Evans Olivia Heatley James Klopp Lexi Merison Megan Rahlfs Nicole Tinkoff Kristin Payne SKIDMORE Alexandria Armstrong Meggie Danielson Robyn Stix Ruth Witmer

TEXAS TECH Amelia Fisher Natalie Hawley Marguerite Buchmann Shavanna Caruso Reesa Lyons UCONN Anders Carlton Julianna Gallo Tessa Kell Kathleen Moriarty Carly Persano Lauren Pfahler Sara Tufts U OF IDAHO Reagan Barron Lillian Gaines Rachel Rosasco Bailey Scrimsher U OF KENTUCKY Anastasia Vialov Kate McCoughey Katie Elder Libby Graham Maggie Holloway Molly Hosler

EMORY Briana Bellamy Anna Eureyecko Monica Schweizer Cara Stechmann

STANFORD Elizabeth McCune Yasmine Ainane Taylor Bacon Justina Breen Evgeniya Borisenko Kathryn Hathaway Raquel Lane Natalie Magnuson Celeste Turner

HARVARD Eliza Bird Francesca Cornero Caroline Cronin Kelsey Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Emelia Vigil

TEXAS A&M Meehan Shirey Alexandra Vaughn Kendall Plank Marissa Wells Taylor Smith

U OF MICHIGAN Alicia Finnorn Brooke Baker Cameron Harter Sarah McColm

MICHIGAN STATE Keahna DePauw Ashley Menning Kathryn Pauli Kayla Schulte Elaine Schwingel

TEXAS CHRISTIAN Katherine Phillips Ana Otanez Paige Browning Quinn Losefsky Rachael Phenicie Kara Scolman

U OF VIRGINIA Sadie Bryant Mary Collins Margaret Erb Meghan Milligan Katherine Mitcham Jessica Schmitt Julia Smith

U OF WISCONSIN Amy James Audrey Wilde Leah Griesbach Madison Choppa VIRGINIA TECH Catriona Gow Gabriela Horn Harleigh Humphries Mikayla MacNeill WASHINGTON STATE Annie Frosolone Kate Mills Sarah Rebello Adrienne Valenti Sarah Willsey Anna Wood YALE Leila Chang Sophie Menard Jenna Selati Jamie Skaggs

UMASS Monica Aguilar Julia Burdick Kayley Ellis Hannah Okonsky Ariel Taitel

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MEN CAL POLY Theo Anastos Sage Ellington-Lawrence Connor Kanen Jeremy Kerfs Stone Rush COLORADO STATE Chris Chun Scott Cunningham Alex Kokesh Luke Merrick Bennett Moore Andrew Wildermuth CORNELL Liang Liang Feng Ignacio Masias Lorenzo Masias Liam Palacios Ryan Saul Daniel Shaw HARVARD Johann Colloredo-Mansfeld William Lobkowicz Joseph Paul Meyer Neil Purdy Thomas Waite

OREGON STATE Troy Haslem Jacob Fenger Joel Potyk ROGER WILLIAMS George Hempt Pedro Cabrera Daymar Rosser SMU Michael Armour Barrett Coke Ramon de la Torre Manuel Ituarte Maxi Langois JT Shiverick Paul Von Gontard Mateo Torres Nick Salmikoff TEXAS A&M Casey Woodfin Dalton Woodfin Connor Wright-Snow Luke O’Leary Gideon Kotkowski Christian Aycinena

TEXAS TECH Connor Thompson Dallas Taylor Hiram Gandara John Hand Nick Shellenberger Nino Morales U OF VIRGINIA William Beck Simon Colloredo Mansfeld Merrall Echezarreta Felipe Gomez Eric Hobby Antonio Mendes de Almeida Ali Mobtaker Kamran Pirasteh WESTERN ONTARIO Evan White Andrew Begg Clifford Sifton King Ward Mich Ward

Congratulations to The San Antonio Polo Club’s first ever USPA Interscholastic Polo Team!

MONTANA STATE Calder Zarkos Jacob Zirbel Rob Elmendorf

0

192 T.

ES

Georgia Jackson Rowan Stella

TM

SanAntonioPoloClub.org For information call Coach Patrick MacLeod 210-394-3538

POLO TRAINING CENTER SANTA BARBARA

Polo Training Center Santa Barbara (PTCSB) is a charitable organization that encourages the growth of polo by operating and supporting programs for players at all levels. PTCSB will encourage the development of goodwill and sportsmanship as well as teaching the skills necessary to participate successfully in the game of polo.

WWW.POLOTRAININGCENTER.COM

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MIDDLE SCHOOL Gardnertown Polo Club

Central Coast Polo Club

Prestonwood Polo Club

ORANGE Adam Yachkouri Hayley Kriege Julia Schaefer

CCPC RED Ruby Decker Kyla Douglas Morgan Manos

PRESTONWOOD WHITE Estephanie Turrubiartes Andrew Siino JB Long

GRAY Jack Whitman Adriane Dogani Jonathon Wallace Adam Wallace

Houston Polo Club

Bluewater Creek Polo Club

PURPLE Amar Anand Sophia DeAngelis Mary Duncan

TEAM TEJAS Abigail Benton Christian Fridge Will Mudra

BWC BLUE Will Cato Winifred Branscum Josh Towe

GREEN Kaya Brownell Emerson Bruce Rehan Kumble Gaston Gomez

Maui Polo Club

Garrison Forest School

Aiken Polo School

MAUI POLO BLACK Emily Coflin Azure DeCoite Gavin Marshman

GFS WHITE Mary Duncan Cate Godey Yash Chhugani

Marlan Farm

QUIET CREEK FARM Lindsey Morris Kymberly Pugh Emily Kuczynski

YELLOW Luke Howe Cate Godey Saralyn Painter

CRESTVIEW FARM Lazaro Gorosito Reagan Leitner Aiden Meeker ENVIROSCAPE Alea Crespo Summer Kneece Jack Whitman

CCPC BLUE Blair Conlan Sara Espy Logan Olcott

ROCKING P Lillian Lequerica Bridget Price Dani Price

MAUI POLO WHITE Elizabeth Miranda Madison Dolenak Daniel Miranda

DRUMCLIFFE GRAY Grace Fleischmann Madison Jordan Mary Duncan

EQUUS EVENTS Parker Daniels Maddie Godard Robyn Leitner

DRUMCLIFFE GREEN Cate Godey Rory Knox Brianna Jordan

ISINYA FARM Michael Bradford Grace Ellis Josh Escapite

DRUMCLIFFE BLACK Kylie Beard Josie Smith Jack Whitman

NEW BRIDGE Brianna Jordan Madison Jordan Virginia Gwinn

DRUMCLIFFE WHITE Josie Dorsey Kymberly Pugh Zoey Bivalacqua

PRESTONWOOD RED Trenton Wertrz Sarahi Obregon Gerardo Obregon

BWC RED Belle Cato Robbie Mooney Kelsey Bray

GFS DARK BLUE Jack Whitman Brianna Jordan Nasir Negroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Duprey

WORK TO RIDE Rory Knox Mosiah Gravesande Elly Dawson DRUMCLIFFE Madison Jordan Grace Fleischmann Josie Smith GFS LIGHT BLUE Gabby Chiasera Zoey Bivalacqua Nahla Thomas

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Lakeside

A AnaSophia Wolf Elise Pardue Ethan Bankhead

Bloomfield Polo Club

BLOOMFIELD YELLOW Adam Yachkouri Daisy Scherer Jack Whitman

B Ella Bonilla Kylie Kufahl Thalia Postins

BLOOMFIELD PURPLE Amelia Safran Maegan Byrne Chris Veitch

NWA Polo Club

BLOOMFIELD GREEN Mary Duncan Connelly Cashen Skyler Knott Carolina Lott-Diamond Brianna Guarino

NWA POLO CLUB Marguerite Johnson Jordan Cook Alyx Swope-Bell THE OUT-OF-TOWNERS Tori Summers Kelsey Bray Winnie Branscum

Powers Polo School BLUE CHAMELIONS Reese Zimmerman Kaitlyn Gaulin Shirley Horvath Jack Whitman

DARLINGTON DESTROYERS Madysen Block Ethan Seikel Seth Goehring Grace Pritchard

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Barrington Hills Polo Club BARRINGTON WHITE Luke Misukanis Hayden Boeh Arien Khan

BARRINGTON GREEN Maximo Font Jacquelyn Albrecht Jandro Brugue-Hernando

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UNITED STATES POLO ASSOCIATION® 2132 Peter's Way Aiken, SC 29805

INTERSCHOLASTIC VARSITY LETTER PROGRAM I'm applying for the USPA Interscholastic Varsity Letter Program for the following year(s):

O Freshman

O Sophomore

O Junior O Senior

PERSONAL INFORMATION FIRST NAME

LAST NAME Zip Code STREET CITY State PHONE USPA MEMBER NUMBER EMAIL BIRTHDATE EXPECTED GRADUATION YEAR NAME OF HIGH SCHOOL OR HOME SCHOOL PROGRAM WOULD YOU LIKE USPA TO NOITFY YOUR SCHOOL OF YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THIS PROGRAM? SCHOOL EMAIL SENIORS ONLY: COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY WILL BE ATTENDING QUALIFICATIONS ‐ COACH VERIFICATION INTERSCHOLASTIC TEAM NAME COACH NAME COACH CONTACT O ACTIVE TEAM MEMBER

O 100 HOURS

REGULAR SEASON GAME 1:

vs

DATE

REGULAR SEASON GAME 2:

vs

DATE

REGULAR SEASON GAME 3:

vs

DATE

REGULAR SEASON GAME 4:

vs

DATE

DATE

TOURNAMENT PLAYED:

COACH'S SIGNATURE O USPA MEMBER O I/I TEAM MEMBER O MEETS I/I ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

USPA USE ONLY O HOURS VERIFIED O GAMES VERIFIED O TOURNAMENT VERIFIED

APPROVED BY:

USPA REP SIGNATURE

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SIX $4,000

scholarships awarded annually

Open to current interscholastic & intercollegiate players

TO APPLY YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL NEED:

1. 3.0 GPA 2. Two letters of recommendation 3. Short essay

(Auto Renewable)

DEADLINE: MAY

LIVE AUTHENTICALLY USPOLOASSNGLOBAL.COM