The Southampton Hunt and Polo Club offers a three phase introduction to 'the
sport of kings" that is designed to take a beginner and teach them the
rudiments of the game so that he or she understands the game, its rules and can
participate in match play competively and safely.
The three phases are:
A 10-Hour Introductory Program
taught by world class professionals, designed to teach the basics of polo
riding, hitting, rules, strategy and safety;
Low-Goal Polo consisting of drills, strategy and coached chukkers with players
of comparable experience supervised by pros;
Regular Polo, participation in club play.
The following is a breakdown of a normal 10-Hour Introductory Program. However, the Pro will adapt it to suit the ability and experience of the
individual student.
Polo Riding: Learning to ride polo style. Initial
instruction will take place in the arena and then move to the open fields. 2.5
Hours
Hitting: Learning to hit the polo ball and the various
strokes i.e. nearside, offside,back forehand, neck shots, tail and open shots.
Instruction is given in a hitting cage on the wooden horse and later on the
field while mounted. 2.0 Hours
Rules & Safety:
Both classroom & field instruction on the rules of the game & how to
play safely. 1.5 Hours
Strategy:
Again both classroom and field instruction in how the game is actually played
including the player's individual and team responsibilities. 1.0 Hours
Stick & Ball:
Putting it all together, riding and hitting the ball. 3.0 Hours
Chukkers: Graduation; actually playing a game with players of
comparable experience.
Riding sessions will usually be one-on-one but never more than 3 students per
instructor. Classroom sessions may be in groups. The ten hours can be scheduled
at the convenience of the student and pro. SHPC will provide the instructor,
polo pony, tack, groom, mallets and facilities. The student need only bring
boots, helmet & gloves.
Cost : $2,000. Payable 50% at signup & 50% after the 5th hour. Following
completion of the introductory phase the novice can move into the Low-Goal
Program. At this point it will be necessary to rent or lease at least one ,but
preferably two horses, to participate fully in the program. Your Pro can
provide details and costs involved.
