NEWS

Concluding the 2025 Texas Area League (TAL) season, the momentum behind the League is stronger than ever, especially in the booming B and C-Flights, which continue to drive growth and enthusiasm in the Lone Star State. Since its inception in 2018, TAL has become a key platform for new and emerging players, with participation and attendance reaching record highs. The League’s inclusive structure and commitment to development have been instrumental in expanding arena polo across the central region.

The B and C-Flights, supported by the Polo Training Foundation (PTF), offer a welcoming and competitive environment where players can safely build their skills, providing a clear pathway from entry-level to more advanced competition and ensuring a bright future for the sport. PTF has remained a driving force behind youth and amateur polo in the United States since 1967. The foundation’s top priority has always been to cultivate the future of polo in America, while making the sport accessible and fun for everyone. In conjunction with organized events such as TAL, PTF has been able to reach polo prospects nation-wide, providing players with opportunities for success using clinics, tournaments and financial assistance. By sponsoring initiatives like the TAL’s B and C-Flights, PTF helps ensure that players at every level have access to meaningful competitive experiences to build themselves up in the sport.

TAL’s C-Flight serves as a launchpad for new players stepping into competitive polo for the first time. Structured in two chukker games, C-Flight is the ideal format for polo school students and beginners to bridge the gap between lessons and real match play. For many, it is the first time facing opponents outside their home clubs, providing a valuable milestone. The focus on safety, fun and teamwork cultivates an environment where players can build confidence and improve their horsemanship. Coaches and USPA umpires work closely with participants to reinforce good habits, making C-Flight a vital part of TAL’s player development.

TAL allows returning players to reconnect with the sport, as participant Kelly T. Cuddeback shared, "Returning to the arena after decades away from polo was both a challenge and a revelation. Playing in the C-Flight brought back the thrill and the intensity I remembered from my days at Texas Tech University, but this time, with a few more years under my belt. The experience of playing on my daughter Madi Holm's horses for Roulette Polo made it all the more special, and while I may not be in my 20s anymore, the joy and camaraderie of the game reignited a passion I thought I had left behind. Polo is truly addictive, and I can't believe I ever stopped.”

For players ready to take the next step in their arena polo journey, the B-Flight offers four chukkers of faster-paced play. All competitors are rated -1 to 0-goals, ensuring an even playing field, within a league that places strong emphasis on strategy and horsemanship.

Reflecting on her experience, Ashley Welch shared, “As someone relatively new to polo, I was excited to participate this year in the B-Flight. It's wonderful that this organization provides an opportunity to players of all skill levels to compete in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. B-Flight was the right place for me to push myself, while also continuing to learn the nuances of this fantastic sport. I am so grateful for this experience, and I look forward to participating again next year.”

This season, TAL’s B-Flight boasted several teams made up of both current and former Interscholastic/Intercollegiate (I/I) players representing collegiate programs including Oklahoma State University, Texas Tech University, Texas A&M University, St. Edward’s University and Trinity University, creating a valuable pipeline for year-round development and fostering long-term engagement.

In addition to fostering new talent, B-Flight offers a consistent and welcoming space for players to return season after season. “As someone who doesn’t have a ton of time to play throughout the year, B-Flight has been the perfect level for me to maintain my skill set while still facing manageable challenges”, shared Lexi Elder. “It’s so fun seeing familiar faces each year and cheering on friends that move up! It’s also great to connect with players in the higher-level flights like 6- to 9-goal that give great advice. I love the friendships I’ve made at TAL!”

TAL’s growing successes in the B and C-Flights continue to open doors for players at all levels, acting as crucial steppingstones into competitive arena polo. Backed by strong community support, TAL is helping to grow the sport from the ground up—one season and one player at a time.

To learn more about arena polo and where you can get started, please visit playpolo.org to connect with a club in your area.