"The virtue of polo as a military accomplishment rests on the following: it makes a man think fast while he is excited; it reduces his natural respect for his own safety - that is, makes him bold; it ... teaches restraint under exciting circumstances ... nearest to mounted combat..." - Major George S. Patton, Jr.
WELCOME TO ARMED FORCES POLO
Since 1876
There is no greater good, than honoring those who serve our country.
Welcome to Armed Forces Polo, an initiative established in 2011 due to the support, encouragement and guidance from the United States Polo Association. Our mission is simple, to honor and perpetuate ties between the U.S. Armed Forces and the greater community of polo. Join us as a participant, a spectator, or a host club for Armed Forces polo events held throughout the U.S. and the world.
Today, Armed Forces Polo encompasses the spirit of competition and camaraderie that was once initiated years ago. History states that Polo's origins began with mounted nomads in Central Asia who adopted a version of the game that was part sport and part training for war, with as many as 100 men per side. The game followed the nomads’ migration to Persia then India, where polo became a national sport, played by both nobility and military men alike. From there polo spread as fast as its military enthusiasts could travel, appearing in Malta in 1868, England in 1869, Ireland in 1870, Argentina in 1872, Australia in 1874 and finally in the United States in 1876. By 1914 there were 17 Army posts playing polo and by 1928, the U.S. Army team had made it to the finals of the U.S. Open. The other military branches, Marines, Navy and Air Force soon followed suit and today there are inter-service matches held all over the country and international military matches contested worldwide.
Major (Ret.) Mark Gillespie
USPA Armed Forces Committee Chairman
Mark Gillespie, retired Army officer and West Point, Airborne, Ranger and French Commando graduate, assumed the role as new Chairman of the Armed Forces Committee in October 2020.
UNITED STATES
POLO ASSOCIATION
# USPALIVE #LIVEAUTHENTICALLY
As the governing body of polo, the USPA has been a significant factor in facilitating the formation of Military Polo and we would like to express our appreciation for their support and guidance throughout our development. Learn more about the sport of polo and the USPA brand through the USPA website. Memberships available for playing as well as non-playing social.