National diversity is an asset of Umpires LLC and Canada is well-represented by Steve Dalton. He established a solid reputation as a professional high-goal player at six goals for a number of years, highlighted by his team involvement with various teams in the Florida and California winter seasons.

His daughter Stella, in 7th grade, is dabbling in polo while also competing in horse shows and roping. Steve can relate, starting out with traditional equestrian training which taught him how to ride. He transferred to polo after his father Rick Dalton, kicked off the ‘game of kings’ family lineage when he took up the sport when Steve was in High School.

Steve has represented Canada in England, and Argentina, as well as a memorable FIP World Cup performance with Canada in Australia in 2000. “I’ve played for 35 years. “Now that I’ve quit playing, I want to pay back the sport a bit - if that’s the right expression,” he said. “I really enjoy it.”

An accident in 2014 and a broken left arm prompted Steve’s transition to professional umpiring. He was no stranger to umpiring but realizes these days, it’s a different ball game.

“The game is so fast, these teams and organizations have a lot of money invested,” he said. “They expect quality umpiring when you are out there. I try to be as fair as I can. You have to have knowledge of the game and you cannot take it personally.”