Programs

Florida Junior Polo

The mission of PTF Florida Junior Polo program encourages the growth of polo by supporting training programs for junior players at all levels of ability. The program promotes goodwill and sportsmanship, and encourages human development through teaching the principles and organizational and managerial skills necessary to successfully participate in the game of polo. 

This was a very different winter. Attendance had been dwindling during coaching sessions and fields have become nearly impossible to rent. It was therefore decided that the PTF would run the tournaments, of which there were three this year; The JoAnna Monaco at the Gulfstream Polo Club in January, The Avendano at IPC in February, and The Bellissimo is coming up March 26. Beginning with the Avendano some great new volunteers joined our efforts and the Avendano was a huge success, with Gonzalo Avendano, the son of the tournament founder, sponsoring and asado the eve of the tournament, Tom Sikes sponsoring food on tournament day, Haley Bryan organizing fields etc., a committee of interested parents choosing teams, and Elizabeth Hedley finding sponsorship money from many enthusiastic supporters. Robin Sanchez popped into town to help Haley with final arrangements. Perry Palmer has once again been invaluable with administrative duties as well as anything else that might pop up. Mario Chiara has also continued as one of our main volunteers. The model worked so well it is being duplicated for the Bellissimo. We still are challenged to find weekly polo for all children who wish to play, and plan to discuss options over the summer.