Question 1

How long are polo matches?

Accepted Answer

An official polo game can be anywhere from 4 to 8 periods, called chukkers, of 7 -7 ½ minutes each.  If there is a whistle or the ball goes out of play after the 7-minute mark then the chukker ends.  During chukkers, the time is stopped at a whistle.  Our Sunday polo is structured so all available players and horses are played, which generally turns out to be 5 or 6 chukkers. This tends to take about 1 ½ to 2 hours. Tournament games are 4 chukkers.

Question 2

What should I wear to watch polo?

Accepted Answer

It is common for spectators to dress up a bit for Sunday Polo in other some clubs but the SPC is a casual, friendly club so no special dress is required. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for those sunny summer days though!

Question 3

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Pets are welcome at the polo field as long as they remain on leash and are not a disturbance to horses, players or other guests.

Question 4

Can I reserve a spot to watch from?

Accepted Answer

The SPC offers some bleacher seating and tailgating spots are available on the south sideline. However, spectating spots are on a first come, first served basis.

Question 5

Do you still play if it is raining?

Accepted Answer

The SPC is a passionate group so we always try to get our games in! The fields are built on a deep sand base so they can handle quite a bit of rain before they are unplayable. If it is just a light rain that may be on and off, we will try to play or postpone slightly. If it is raining a lot though or we determine that the field is too wet to provide safe footing for horses and players, we will cancel. Every effort will be made to provide game updates on Facebook.

Question 6

Can I take pictures?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Polo players love to see themselves and their horses in action! For safety reasons though we ask that you remain on the sidelines or far back on the endline by the berm. Please contact us if you have any questions or special requests, or want to discuss sharing your photos.

Question 7

How do I become a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

The SPC offers sponsorship opportunities for our tournaments and on our electronic scoreboard. If you would like more information, please drop us an email at springfieldpoloclubca@gmail.com.

Question 8

Can anyone play polo?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The trick is everyone must play right-handed! Don’t let that discourage you if you are a lefty though as many, many polo players are naturally left-handed. It just takes practice. Polo is offered starting at age 8 and players often play well into their 70’s! For lessons, we do reserve the right to determine whether a person’s weight will be appropriate for the horse and we require students to get on and off the horse without instructor assistance. A foot stool is used for mounting.

Question 9

What do I need to bring or buy for a lesson?

Accepted Answer

All you need is boots with a low heel, breeches or jeans, and a helmet with a safety certification. We can give you some links or stores to buy these. We provide everything else.

Question 10

Is polo dangerous?

Accepted Answer

There is some risk associated with every sport, and all equine activities. We do our best to provide well trained horses and guide you on best safety practices. We all wear helmets at all times while riding and closed toed shoes when interacting with horses.

Question 11

Can I bring my own horse?

Accepted Answer

Yes and no. We have trained members of horses from other disciplines how to play polo in the past. It depends on the build and temperament of the horse. Cow ponies and thoroughbreds are most suitable. However, we do not allow you to try playing on your horse while you are still a beginner. Once you have mastered the swing and the rules then we can consider your horse for polo training.

Question 12

Can I buy a polo horse?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer many options for obtaining your own polo ponies.

Question 13

Are students members of the club?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer student memberships for those advanced students who play practices or chukkers. Several of our students have also acquired their own polo ponies and become full members of our club, able to play in club chukkers, tournaments, and Sunday games.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS