Robin Sanchez*

Circuit: SW - Southwestern Home Club: Legends Polo Club

I am running for USPA Governor at Large for a second term. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to get involved – in voting (even if it’s not for me), in your home club, in committees and USPA meetings, get in touch with your circuit governor and governors at large (GAL) and help come up with solutions where you think there is a need or tell us what is going well and should be continued or enhanced.

Since I typically visit more than 25 clubs a year, I am very fortunate to know many of you already. For those of you that I haven’t yet met, a little background and current info follows.

From lead line to high goal, I’ve participated in every area of the sport from groom to club manager, tractor driver to instructor, umpire to horse trainer, everything in between and whatever it takes. Along the way I have been fortunate to have learned from some of the best coaches, managers, players, trainers, grooms, umpires and instructors. The list of those who have inspired, educated and encouraged me is long and varied and I am grateful.

I ran and coached the PTF Junior Polo program in Wellington, Florida from 2000-2007 where numerous current high goal players got their start. At Brushy Creek Polo Ranch from 2007 until its closing in 2010 which was well known for its polo camps, I/I polo and clinics, I was the director and head instructor. Creator and organizer of the Fall Fandango I/I polo event in Texas which annually draws over 12 teams and serves as player and arena umpire training. I am a committee member, promoter and organizer for Texas Arena League with over 110 players in the 2022 season. I have also managed numerous polo clubs and run polo lesson programs while at those clubs.

Among my activities within the USPA, I am currently serving as the Chairman of the Arena Committee. Additionally:

  • On the Womens, Equine Welfare, Club and Membership, and Safety committees
  • Serve on multiple sub-committees within Rules, Handicaps and Tournaments
  • Helped create the USPA Certified Polo Instructor program and am a CPI Certifier.
  • A USPA Umpires LLC Professional Umpire and train certified/club umpires at clinics
  • Received the 2018 USPA Clint Nangle Equine Welfare Award and the 2021 Woman of the Year Award
  • Former Lt Governor for the Southwest Circuit
  • Was the original Director of Content for Poloskilz.com

Outside of USPA, I belong to many other organizations and associations and bring the best ideas from these organizations to improve and implement programs within USPA. These organizations include:

  • American Quarter Horse Association - AQHA Professional Horseman
  • Certified Horsemanship Association - Master Instructor and Clinic Staff
  • National Association of Sports Officials
  • Hurlingham Polo Association certified overseas polo instructor
  • Beefmaster Breeders United
  • ASEP - certified sports coach
  • American Heart Association - CPR/First Aid/AED Instructor

My focus is grass roots polo – polo school, arena, youth polo, and growing clubs/players – the polo that is represented by the majority of the USPA membership. Over the years, I have been privileged to help many clubs and players through visits around the country as a clinician, club consultant and umpire. I bring that focus to the USPA Board to grow the players and clubs within the USPA – not just in quantity but in quality. Through all my travels to various polo clubs, I know what clubs and members want from the USPA and am uniquely qualified to represent those needs.

In my life beyond polo, my husband and I have a sustainable agriculture farm in East Texas - I might be the only vegetarian raising beef cattle. I also enjoy camping, trail riding and visiting our National Parks and Lands.

I would love to hear your ideas on how, together, we can grow and improve the USPA. If you wish to contact me, I can be reached at robin@usarenapolo.com or phone or text 717-645-8778.

Thank you for your consideration.