2014
Annual Report
Copyright by United States Polo Association 9011 Lake Worth Road Lake Worth, Florida 33467 (800) 232-USPA ∙ uspa@uspolo.org
®
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Our Mission Statement The United States Polo Association速 was organized and exists for the purposes of promoting the game of polo, coordinating the activities of its Member Clubs and Registered Players, arranging and supervising polo tournaments, competitions, and games and providing rules, handicaps, and conditions for those tournaments, competitions, and games including the safety and welfare of participants and mounts.
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Table of Contents Section
Pages
USPA Chairman’s Message......................................................................................................................... 4 USPA Board & Staff Information............................................................................................................... 5 USPA CEO 2015 High-Level Strategic Planning Initiatives.............................................................. 10 USPA CEO’s Report........................................................................................................................................ 11 2014 USPA Services and LLC Reports..................................................................................................... 21
Membership Statistics..................................................................................................................... 22 Arena Committee.............................................................................................................................. 25 Armed Forces Committee............................................................................................................... 27 Audit Committee............................................................................................................................... 29 Board & Staff Development Committee.................................................................................... 30 Constitution Committee................................................................................................................. 32 Equine Welfare Committee............................................................................................................ 33 Finance Committee........................................................................................................................... 35 National Handicap Committee..................................................................................................... 36 High Goal Committee...................................................................................................................... 37 Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Committee.............................................................................. 38 International Committee................................................................................................................ 46 Nominating Committee.................................................................................................................. 49 Rules Committee............................................................................................................................... 49 Safety Committee.............................................................................................................................. 50 Tournament Committee.................................................................................................................. 51 Women’s Polo Committee.............................................................................................................. 53 USPA Marketing, LLC........................................................................................................................ 55 USPA Polo Development, LLC....................................................................................................... 61 Club & Membership Development Committee...................................................................... 62 Junior Polo Committee.................................................................................................................... 68 Team USPA Committee.................................................................................................................... 72 USPA Umpires, LLC............................................................................................................................ 80 USPA Properties, Inc.......................................................................................................................... 86
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Dear fellow players, The USPA Board of Governors, Committee chairs and Staff members join me in presenting this 2014 USPA Annual Report. This report precedes our 2015 Annual Member Survey, which will be sent to you on January 23, 2015. Your USPA leadership is listening, and we rely on the membership survey information from you, our members, when we plan and budget for the future. This “Inform, Survey, Plan and Implement” process is an ongoing initiative of Polo 2020 – A Vision for the Future, which we began at the beginning of this administration in October, 2012. The leadership of your association joins me as I wish you the best in all of your polo endeavors. Sincerely,
Chuck Weaver, Chairman United States Polo Association®
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USPA Officers Charles E. Weaver, Chairman (309) 360-4779
E-mail: chuck@chuckweaver.us
Joseph Meyer, President (404) 606-3434
E-mail: jpmeyer1@mac.com
Daniel Walker, Secretary (562) 437-0011
E-mail: daniel.walker@fmb.com
Edward “Chip” Campbell, III, Treasurer (318) 425-1680
Email: campbellchip@bellsouth.net
USPA Circuit Governors Daniel Coleman (Border) (602) 284-5988 e-mail: daniel.coleman@candiasystems.com
Leighton Jordan (Northeastern) (203) 661-3344 e-mail: leightonjordan@whitebirchpaper.com
Britt Baker (Central) (515) 241-9240 e-mail: bbaker@bakerelectric.com
Patrick Nesbitt (Pacific Coast) (805) 695-0141 e-mail: pat.nesbitt@wcghotels.com
James Burton (Eastern) (301) 717-7161 e-mail: jimburton@uspaeasterncircuit.com
Robert Petersen (Pacific Northwest) (253) 381-7016 e-mail: robert.a.petersen@morganstanley.com
Melissa Ganzi (Florida) (561) 373-0303 email: melissaganzi@me.com
Erica Gandomcar-Sachs (Rocky Mountain) (303) 791-7656 e-mail: erica@denverpoloclub.com
David Ragland (Great Plains) (405) 833-5783 e-mail: d.ragland@aol.com
John “Jake” Flournoy (Southeastern) (706) 324-4000 e-mail: jake@flournoypartners.com
Christopher Dawson (Hawaiian Islands) (808) 292-4200 e-mail: chris@dawsonhawaii.com
Paul Jornyavaz (Southwestern) (713) 650-0173 e-mail: paulj@lemlp.com
Mark Sedacca (Mid-States) (513) 831-5717 e-mail: marksedacca@gmail.com 5
USPA Governors-At-Large Steven Armour (979) 282-8280 email: shanghai13@aol.com
Sunset Hale (561) 312-5201 e-mail: shpolo21@aol.com
Chrys D. Beal (432) 352-2001 email: chrysbeal@gmail.com
Robert Jornayvaz (303) 296-3006 e-mail: bobj@intrepidpotash.com
Dr. Richard Caleel (312) 335-9021 e-mail: rtcpolo@aol.com
Stephen Orthwein, Jr. (561) 951-1492 e-mail: sorthweinjr@hotmail.com
Avery Chapman (561) 889-8378 e-mail: asc@chapmanlawgroup.net
Russell Sheldon (619) 206-8344 e-mail: 1polonut@cox.net
Dennis L. Geiler (949) 729-2230 e-mail: denny@poloproperties.com
Dale Smicklas (405) 202-9043 e-mail: dsmick@aol.com
Thomas Gose (210) 216-0819 e-mail: tomgose@retamco.com
Charles W. Smith (817) 341-0394 e-mail: cwsmith43@earthlink.net
Honorary Governors Thomas J. Biddle, Sr. Orrin H. Ingram S.K. Johnston, Jr.
Stephen Orthwein John C. Oxley Richard Riemenschneider
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Jack L. Shelton William Sinclaire
USPA Marketing, LLC Board Scott Walker, Interim Chairman (951) 253-4050 e-mail: scottewalker3@hotmail.com
Melissa Ganzi (561) 373-0303 e-mail: melissaganzi@me.com
Bruce Colley (914) 277-4800 e-mail: bdc02@aol.com
Peter J. Rizzo, Ex-Officio (800) 232-8772 e-mail: rizzo@uspolo.org
Christopher Dawson (808) 292-4200 e-mail: chris@dawsonhawaii.com
USPA Polo Development, LLC Board Charles W. Smith, Chairman (817) 341-0394 e-mail: cwsmith43@earthlink.net
Duncan Huyler (845) 236-4576 e-mail: duncanhuyler@gmail.com
Chrys D. Beal (432) 352-2001 email: chrysbeal@gmail.com
Peter J. Rizzo, Ex-Officio (800) 232-8772 e-mail: rizzo@uspolo.org
Dennis Geiler (949) 729-2230 e-mail: denny@poloproperties.com
USPA Umpires, LLC Board Britt Baker, Chairman (515) 669-0300 e-mail: bbaker@bakerelectric.com
Thomas Gose (210) 216-0819 e-mail: tomgose@retamco.com
Thomas J. Biddle, Sr. (803) 648-7874 e-mail: tom@biddlerealty.net
Peter J. Rizzo, Ex-Officio (800) 232-8772 e-mail: rizzo@uspolo.org
Robert Daniels (561) 204-3455 e-mail: bobdaniels@yahoo.com 7
2014 USPA Committee and LLC Chairs USPA Committee/LLC
Committee/LLC Chair
Committee/LLC Staff
Board of Governors
Charles Weaver
Peter Rizzo
Arena
Daniel Coleman
Robert Puetz
Armed Forces
Ursula Lipari and Karl Hilberg
Robert Puetz
Audit
Steven Rudolph
Robert Puetz
Board & Staff Development
James Burton
Robert Puetz
Constitution
Daniel Coleman
Robert Puetz
Executive
Charles Weaver
Peter Rizzo
Equine Welfare
Mark Sedacca
Lindsay Dolan
Finance
Chip Campbell
Susan Present
Handicap
Daniel Walker
Lindsay Dolan
High Goal
Stephen Orthwein, Jr.
Robert Puetz
International
George Dill
Lindsey Ebersbach
Nomination
Thomas Biddle
Robert Puetz
Rules/Interpretation
Thomas Gose
Robert Puetz
Safety
Dr. Thor Norregaard
Matthew Baran
Tournament
Michael Carney
Lindsey Ebersbach
Women’s
Sunset Hale
Lindsay Dolan
Marketing, LLC
Scott Walker
Christine Vermes
Polo Development, LLC
Charles Smith
Kris Bowman
Umpires, LLC
Britt Baker
Charles Muldoon
USPA Umpires, LLC
USPA Marketing, LLC
USPA Services
USPA Properties, LLC 8
USPA Polo Development, LLC
USPA Headquarters and Staff Phone: (800) 232-USPA (8772)
Fax: (888) 391-7410
Services Peter J. Rizzo............................................................. Chief Executive Officer Robert Puetz............................................................. Executive Director of Services Lindsay Dolan.......................................................... Membership Director Lindsey Ebersbach................................................. Tournament Administrator Matthew Baran........................................................ Services Administrator Accounting Susan Present, CPA................................................. Chief Financial Officer Kelly Vanderwerff................................................... Controller Beverly Basist........................................................... Accounting Assistant/ Human Resources Jennifer Furlow........................................................ Accounts Payable/Receivable Deanna Sullivan...................................................... Accounting Administrator USPA Marketing, LLC Christine Vermes..................................................... Chief Marketing Officer Daniel O’Leary......................................................... Vice President of Marketing April Wehle................................................................ Marketing Manager USPA Polo Development, LLC Kris Bowman............................................................. Executive Director Amanda Snow......................................................... Director of Player Development Elizabeth Holson..................................................... Head Instructor Elizabeth Hedley..................................................... Polo Development Coordinator Justin Powers........................................................... Director of Club Development Jessica Downey....................................................... Executive Assistant/Certification Administrator Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Amy Fraser................................................................ Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Program Director Ali Davidge................................................................ Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Assistant Emily Dewey............................................................. Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Tournament Director USPA Umpires, LLC Charles Muldoon.................................................... Executive Director Steve Lane................................................................. Head Umpire Instructor Bradley Biddle.......................................................... Roving Umpire Instructor Maggie Mitchell...................................................... Umpire Manager
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USPA CEO 2015 High-Level Strategic Planning Initiatives
1. Grow the number of polo players in the United States who own horses by three percent based on annual survey results baseline. 2. Evolve the USPA culture to be “Staff recommended-Board approved-Staff Implemented.” 3. Clarify the duties and responsibilities of volunteer and staff leadership through the implementation of organizational job designs. 4. Expect alignment and communication across USPA Services and LLCs. 5. Ensure USPA Services and LLCs’ compliance to the USPA Board approved annual budget. 6. Analyze monthly results of operations (metrics) to fund only successful services and programs. 7. Ensure USPA Services achieve at least 90% customer satisfaction excellence. 8. Ensure Marketing, LLC provides useful and effective club level support. 9. Ensure Umpires, LLC provides at minimum, one USPA Certified Umpire for all USPA events by 2017. 10. Ensure Polo Development, LLC includes in the Instructors Certification curriculum the essentials of “experience management.”
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USPA CEO’s Report The USPA is actively pursuing its organizational mission to support and promote the game of polo and the welfare of its participants and mounts. To ensure the ongoing viability of the USPA’s vision for the immediate future and the years to come, the USPA implemented a plan of controlled spending and growth beginning in the year 2015. The plan was designed to increase investments to a balance capable of self-funding the Annual Subsidy by the year 2022 and to support the business operations of the USPA and its related entities: USPA Services, Umpires, LLC, Marketing, LLC, and Polo Development, LLC. Maintaining this key budgetary initiative will result in an endowment balance capable of self-funding the USPA’s Operating requirements by the year 2022. Other key developments for 2015 include: USPA Services: An enhanced focus by USPA Services in supporting plans for future growth and retention of polo playing members and polo clubs; a redesigned website; monetary grants given to companies for the purpose of developing and manufacturing NOCSAE-rated polo helmets. USPA Umpires, LLC: Continued promotion of certified umpires; Virtual Rules testing; introduction of “Boot Camps” to improve technical skills of current professional umpires and to encourage other certified umpires to join the Professional Umpire Program; gradual implementation of providing professional umpires for all USPA events, including I/I tournaments. USPA Marketing, LLC: Increase brand awareness via media impressions; procure corporate sponsorships for marketing and advertising; promote brand interest through TV viewership and social media. USPA Polo Development, LLC: Instructors’ and club managers’ development & certification programs to provide training resources to USPA players and clubs; increased focus on youth polo development through the Intercollegiate/ Interscholastic (I/I), middle school (new for 2015) and NYTS polo programs; approval of an I/I Scholarship Fund to support interscholastic players continuing to play polo at an intercollegiate program.
The following chart provides a breakdown of the year 2015 budgeted Annual Operating Subsidy required for support of the operations of the USPA and its related entities:
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2015 PROJECTED USPA SPENDING / INVESTMENT POLICY
$8,346,165 Budget Services & Program Spending
USPA Investment
40%
60% $12,717,033
Total = $21,063,198 Royalty income received through the licensing of the USPA brands is utilized to support the Annual Operations of the USPA, with the remaining amounts invested for growth of our investment balance. As discussed above, a regimen of controlled growth and spending has been initiated to increase our investments to a balance capable of self-funding the USPA’s annual operating subsidies. For 2015, 40% of the year’s projected royalty income, dividends, and investment growth is budgeted to support operations, with the remaining 60% retained as investment assets. 2015 PROJECTED USPA BUDGETED OPERATING SUBSIDY Polo Development, LLC
$3,356,432 Services
Polo Development
40%
30%
13%
$2,471,255 Umpires, LLC
$1,405,486 Umpires
Marketing
Services
Marketing, LLC
17%
$1,112,992 Total
$8,346,165
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The following graphs provide the preliminary (pre-audit) results for the year ending December 31, 2014: 2014 OPERATING SUBSIDY, PER ENTITY
Services
26%
$2,947,116
27%
Marketing, LLC
$1,641,166 Umpires, LLC
$1,345,060
20%
Polo Development, LLC
$2,113,607
17%
Total
$8,046,949 Note: Preliminary results are favorable to the Approved Budget of $8,361,515.
2014 EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION & PAYROLL TAXES
8% 20%
Services
$1,075,902 Polo Development, LLC
$412,100
52%
Umpires, LLC
$408,263 Marketing, LLC
20%
$171,319 Total
$2,067,584
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2014 USPA SPENDING/INVESTMENT POLICY
$8,046,949 Budget Services & Program Spending
28% USPA Investment
72% $20,781,000
Total = $28,827,949 Each LLC and committee is accountable to the Board of Governors for all aspects of their related programs, including adherence to the Board-approved budget. Programs are monitored for success and effectiveness in promoting the USPA’s mission. For questions concerning the spending policies and goals of the organization, please feel free to contact the Executive Leadership of the USPA, Inc. and its related entities, Umpires, LLC, Marketing, LLC, and Polo Development, LLC.
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INTERSCHOLASTIC/INTERCOLLEGIATE COMMITTEE
I/I Budget (Total, Tournaments, and Actuals) $900,000 $800,000 $700,000 $600,000 $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Total Budget
$383,200
$552,500
$667,050
$666,700
$731,900
$774,250
Total Actuals
$354,257
$480,285
$651,827
I/I Tournaments
$322,200
$414,500
$520,050
$489,700
$537,900
$559,250
I/I Budget (Start Up, Umpiring, & New Initiatives) $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
I/I Start Up & Enhancement
$36,000
$50,000
$50,000
$60,000
$65,000
$75,000
Umpire Support
$17,500
$18,000
$15,000
$22,000
$24,000
$26,000
New Initiatives for 2012-2014
$7,500
$62,500
$20,000
$45,000
$0
$0
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INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE Budget $600,000 $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0 Actual
2011
2012
2013
2014
$216,105
$25,149
$345,562.71
$489,791
$275,866.00
$275,908
$241,105
$25,000
$330,000 $139,102
Actual Revenue Budget Budgeted Revenue
2015
2016
$464,000
$480,000
$275,000
$100,000
$245,000
$245,000
USPA MARKETING, LLC
Budget $2,500,000 $2,000,000 $1,500,000 $1,000,000 $500,000 $0
2011
2012
$597,970
$605,807
2013
2014
2015
2016
$1,206,004 $2,239,278 $1,112,192 $1,140,687
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POLO DEVELOPMENT, LLC
PDI Budget $410,000 $390,000 $370,000 $350,000 $330,000 $310,000 $290,000 $270,000 $250,000
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Budgeted PDI
$300,000
$325,000
$350,000
$375,000
$400,000
Actual
$298,057
$326,850
$379,000
$373,000
1. Increase in funds available to USPA clubs through the Strategic Plan 2. $30,000 carryover from 2010-2012 to 2013
SAFETY COMMITTEE
Budget $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0 Equipment Testing
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
$5,000
$5,000
$10,000
$10,000
$10,000
$10,000
$6,000
$6,000
$3,000
$3,000
$3,000
$15,000
$20,000
$15,000
$15,000
Baseline Testing NOCSAE Helmet 1 Time Grant Total
$5,000
$50,000
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$65,000
ARENA COMMITTEE
Budget $25,000 $20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000 $0
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Budget
$-
$10,000
$12,000
$20,000
20,000
Actuals
$-
$4,818
$12,368
TEAM USPA
Team USPA Budget $600,000 $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $-
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Op. Budget
$175,000
$295,000
$370,000
$380,000
$440,000
$440,000
Actuals
$133,034
$348,298
$358,988
$379,840
$438,513
1. Budget increase from 2010 to 2011 reflects the addition of the Aiken Training Center and AIPF Horse Care 2. Budget increase from 2011 to 2012 reflects increased mentoring budget for Florida winter season and/or Argentina and for increase in membership 3. Budget increase from 2012 to 2013 reflects the addition of the Young Player Outreach program
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TOURNAMENT COMMITTEE
Cost of Trophies for Circuit Events $45,000 $40,000 $35,000 $30,000 $25,000 $20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000 $0
2009
2010
2011
Circuit Trophies Projected Circuit Trophies Actual
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
$22,000 $27,623 $39,000 $39,000 $39,000 $11,507 $19,863 $25,740 $25,413 $29,700 $37,080
Cost of Trophies for National Events $35,000 $30,000 $25,000 $20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000 $0
2009
2010
2011
National Trophies Projected National Trophies Actual
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
$18,000 $22,308 $30,000 $30,000 $31,000 $11,927 $19,461 $20,676 $22,267 $18,800 $24,000
In response to participating members and clubs, the quality of awards has been increased causing increased budget amounts for both National and Circuit Trophies.
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UMPIRES, LLC
Umpire, LLC Funding Usage by Circuit $45,000 $40,000 $35,000 $30,000 $25,000
2013 Allocated 2013 Used
$20,000
2014 UMP Allocated
$15,000
2014 UMP Used
$10,000
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1. Unused 2013 UMP funds were redistributed to other circuits with overages based on tournament/ league games umpired. 2. 2014 figures reflect amounts requested and paid to clubs through Circuit Governors. The remaining allocated UMP funds were used to cover expenses that had been requested for low goal USPA tournaments.
Total Umpire, LLC Funding Usage $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 2012
2013
2014
Allocated
$225,000
$228,000
$228,000
Requested
$171,395
$228,666
$157,735
In 2014, the remaining funds ($70,265) were used to help clubs pay for umpiring service expenses.
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USPA Services Division Executive Director: Robert Puetz Services Staff: Lindsay Dolan Lindsey Ebersbach Matthew Baran Committees: Arena Committee Armed Forces Committee Armed Forces Committee Audit Committee Board and Staff Development Committee Constitution Committee Equine Welfare Committee Finance Committee National Handicap Committee High Goal Committee Interscholastic/ Intercollegiate Committee International Committee Nominating Committee Rules Committee Safety Committee Tournament Committee Women’s Polo Committee
MISSION STATEMENT: Services division operates as the “hub” of all USPA functions; it maintains the administrative and operational infrastructure within which all Divisions, LLCs, clubs, and members participate. The services not provided by the LLCs for their operation are generally provided by Services in support of the LLCs and USPA. In 2014, the USPA Services department endured a number of structural changes including the addition of Executive Director, Robert Puetz, a new accounting staff lead by Chief Financial Officer, Susan Present and the final phase of centralizing the Services offices to Florida. We strive to enhance the services offered to our clubs and members and provide staff driven support for the USPA Committees, LLCs and our volunteer governing body. The following is a list of top Services achievements of 2014 and goals for 2015:
•• •• •• •• •• •• ••
Through concerted efforts by the USPA Umpires, LLC and the Rules Committee we developed Instant Replay Guidelines that may be used as a tournament condition for all USPA tournaments beginning January 1, 2015. Based on the input from the High Goal Community we developed Board approved High Goal Committee Guidelines that mandate four active High Goal players be elected by their peers to serve on the Committee. Developed and implemented the plan for the preparation and training of the USA Polo Team to win the FIP Zone A Playoffs and qualify for the 2015 FIP World Championships. Implemented the new Women’s Handicap System, a specialized handicapping for USPA outdoor women’s polo tournaments and events. Developed a budget and plan for the expansion of the Services department in preparation of the growing needs of the USPA members, clubs and LLCs. Developed the National Handicap Committee Policy to ensure handicap procedural consistency throughout the Association. Implemented the Club Delegate Travel Expense Reimbursement Policy to encourage Delegate participation and attendance at the USPA Annual Meetings.
USPA Services 2015 Top Level Goals •• Improve customer satisfaction (USPA members and clubs) with the staff and services provided to grow and sustain the sport of polo in the United States. •• Improve member relations through expanding member services support. •• Develop an intuitive website that functions as a club and member service, informational platform and a resource to market the sport of polo. •• Provide enhanced professional staff support for the implementation of USPA Committee and USPA Board approved initiatives, services and programs.
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Membership Statistics BY CIRCUIT
Player
Affiliate
Associate
Junior Collegiate Total
Border
87
13
35
24
0
159
Central
164
23
49
41
12
289
Eastern
248
54
58
112
59
531
Florida
233
137
45
72
4
491
Great Plains
41
6
6
6
6
65
Hawaiian
96
7
20
35
1
159
Mid-States
141
46
40
60
29
316
Northeastern
306
101
72
120
85
684
Pacific Coast
439
98
129
147
44
857
Pacific Northwest
89
73
47
28
52
289
Rocky Mountain
74
12
15
5
19
125
Southeastern
254
44
50
48
9
405
Southwestern
299
38
59
85
79
560
No Circuit
12
13
10
13
10
58
Totals
2483
665
635
796
409
4988
TOTAL MEMBERSHIP
4,988 Player Members
409 635
Affiliate Members
2,483
665 796
Associate Members Junior Members Collegiate Members
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2014 MEMBER TYPE BREAKDOWN 3000 2500 2000 1500
REINSTATED NEW
1000
RENEWALS
500 0
Player
Affiliate
Associate
Junior
College
REINSTATED
185
78
38
27
10
NEW
298
141
439
361
202
RENEWALS
2000
446
158
408
197
MALE VS. FEMALE MEMBERSHIP COMPARISON 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500
Male Members
1000
Female Members
500 0
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2842
2626
2473
2622
2752
2765
3020
3159
Female Members 1150
1148
1063
1502
1759
1605
1847
1829
Male Members
2014 MALE VS. FEMALE TOTALS
*Each graphic represents 200 people
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PAID VS. FREE MEMBERSHIPS 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0
Free Members Paid Members 2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Free Members
763
1242
956
1344
1072
Paid Members
3409
3322
3476
3635
3916
USPA HANDICAP RATING BREAKDOWN US Male AFF Male HANDICAPS Out Arena Out Arena 10 0 1 5 0 10T 0 0 0 0 9 1 4 9 5 9T 0 0 0 0 8 2 4 10 2 8T 0 3 1 1 7 3 7 7 6 7T 0 3 2 1 6 11 10 25 16 6T 0 2 3 2 5 9 34 28 10 5T 1 10 2 4 4 30 38 33 24 4T 10 3 3 0 3 69 87 47 21 3T 4 5 3 2 2 131 144 71 54 2T 14 10 8 2 1.5 54 n/a 10 n/a 1 225 271 67 32 1T 14 9 14 1 A.5 88 n/a 13 n/a A.5T 1 n/a 3 n/a A 514 403 97 59 AT 24 11 12 3 B.5 45 n/a 8 n/a B 432 304 62 38 C 33 27 3 3 Totals 1715 1390 546 286
Out 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 1 6 28 1 28 0 205 7 49 446 51 826
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US Female AFF Female Arena Women’s Out Arena Women’s 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 7 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 1 15 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 23 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 2 64 0 1 8 0 3 0 0 1 25 153 3 2 12 0 9 2 0 2 n/a n/a 2 n/a n/a 88 90 7 7 15 3 1 1 0 0 n/a n/a 2 n/a n/a n/a n/a 0 n/a n/a 218 427 17 19 44 5 0 1 3 0 n/a n/a 9 n/a n/a 320 n/a 49 25 n/a 44 n/a 3 3 n/a 706 799 96 60 96
USPA Arena Committee Committee Chair: Daniel Coleman Committee Vice-Chair: Edward Armstrong Committee Staff: Robert Puetz Committee Members: Jennifer Alexy Robert Ceparano Max Duarte David Eldredge Federico Escobar George Estrada, Jr. Michael Farah Rodney Fragodt Dennis Geiler Thomas Goodspeed Stormie Hale Karl Hilberg Grainger Hines Duncan Huyler Megan Judge Louis Lopez Robert Lyn-Kee-Chow Alice McKnight Eric Munk Lisa Nousek Amir Pirasteh Robin Sanchez Daniel Scheraga Dave Schuberth Adair Seager Russell Sheldon Billy Sheldon Bill Walton Tony Yahyai
Mission Statement: The Arena Committee is the successor of the Indoor Polo Association. Its mission is to manage arena polo within the USPA as well as organize, promote and develop arena polo with member clubs and players. The committee seeks to differentiate arena polo as an exciting, competitive, and alternative version of the sport polo, as well as an invaluable teaching polo format. The committee’s initiatives and responsibilities include arena rules, arena handicaps, high goal arena polo, arena tournaments, international arena polo, I/I, and women’s arena polo. Arena Masters Series: The Arena Masters Series continued as a program throughout 2014, anyone who participated in a Circuit Arena Masters tournament over the course of the year was eligible to compete in the Arena Masters finals. A total of ten Arena Masters qualifiers were hosted across the country. The finals for the Arena Masters series were held on December 13-14 at Empire Polo Club. Four teams competed in the event with the Cruz n Kenga team coming out victorious. Arena Incentive Program: To help encourage participation in Arena Polo events the USPA established a reimbursement program for clubs hosting certain USPA Circuit and National arena events. Participation in the reimbursement program continued to grow throughout the year. The Arena Masters Circuit qualifiers were eligible for a percentage of reimbursement, the combination of the two programs helped boost USPA arena polo awareness. A total of 31 Circuit Arena tournaments were hosted which surpassed the projected 25. Snow/Beach Polo Rules Sub-committee: Using the USPA arena rules as a framework, and looking to existing models developed by clubs currently hosting snow and beach polo events, as well as rules used by the Federation of International Polo in prior snow polo events, this sub-committee is developing a uniform set of guidelines for clubs and other organizations seeking to put on snow, beach, and other alternative versions of arena polo. The sub-committee will work to create a set of key variations from standard arena rules, with an emphasis on ensuring the safety of players and horses, as well as on a fair and consistent format of play. Bryan Morrison Cup: The Bryan Morrison Cup took place at the beginning of March at the All England Polo Club in Hickstead. The USA team was comprised of arena 10-goaler Tommy Biddle, and two Team USPA members 5-goaler Patrick Uretz and 4-goaler Will Tankard. The English side was made up of the first fatherson team to compete in an international test match: 9-goaler Chris Hyde, and his 3 goal son, Jack Hyde, they were joined by 7-goaler Pete Webb. The team won the tournament 21 to 16, this was the first time the USA team has won the title since the tournaments inception in 2007. Copa de las America Series: In an effort to encourage more arena international polo, the Arena Committee created the Copa de las America Series. Two events were held through the course of the year. Grand Champions Polo Club hosted the 25
6-9 goal event in February. The USA lost to Canada in the finals of the International match. Las Canchas Polo Club in Guatemala went on to host the 3-6 goal tournament in August. Both events were successful in bringing international teams to compete in the arena. Canada plans to host the 6-9 goal tournament in 2015.
Winners of the 2014 USPA US Arena Open Championship- Kris Kampsen, Richard Fredricks, Felipe Viana, Robert Ceparano
Arena Open and Handicap: Five teams competed in the USPA US Arena Open Championship at Country Farms Polo Club in Medford, New York. The Cedar Croft team defended its title in a close victory against $D. The returning Cedar Croft team was made up of Kris Kampsen (7), Felipe Viana (6), Robert Ceparano (2). $D team comprised of 10-goaler Tommy Biddle, 4-goaler Will Tankard, and 1 goal player Dan Coleman. Beginning in 2015 Country Farms will have a three year contract to host the Arena Open and Arena Handicap, the extension will allow a multi-year sponsor.
Circuit and National Arena Tournaments 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Projected Circuit Events Actual Circuit Events
2013
2014
2015
2016
22
24
25
26
27
26
31 5
5
6
7
10
11
21
22 3
4
4
5
1
5
3
1
3
4
3
Projected National Events Actual National Events
2012
USPA Clubs Hosting Arena Tournaments 25 20 15 10 5 0
2011
2012
Projected Clubs Hosting Actual Clubs Hosting
14
17
26
2013
2014
2015
2016
20
19
21
22
19
23
USPA Armed Forces Committee Co-Commitee Chairs: Karl Hilberg Ursula Lipari Committee Staff: Ali Davidge Committee Members: Steve Armour James Burton Avery Chapman Mark Gillespie Joseph Meyer Russell Sheldon Dan Colhoun Inter-Service Sub-Committee Members: Mark Gillespie, Chair Dean Daggett Karl Hilberg Peter Rizzo Steven Smith Steve Walsh
Mission Statement: The mission of the Armed Forces Committee, in recognition of the great history and connection between the sport of polo and our Armed Forces, seeks to create opportunities to support and bridge the armed forces and the polo communities through the promotion of events supporting the military community and the development of partnerships to increase military participation in the sport of polo. Memorandums of Understanding: The Armed Forces Polo Committee seeks to establish relationships with military and veteran-based charities to support those who serve, and bring the sport of polo to the military community. USPA’s Military Polo History: In the early 1900s, polo spread across the United States as a result of the U.S. Army’s reliance on horses. Teams were assembled, schooled and sent on the road to compete against other teams in Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Bliss and Kelly Field in Texas; Fort Douglas, Utah; Fort Monroe, Virginia; and the Field Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. At the height of polo’s popularity in the 1930s, there were 1,500 military players, far outnumbering civilians playing the sport. USPA Events: The Armed Forces Committee endorsed six events played in Hawaii, California, Texas, Oklahoma and Virginia. Teddy Roosevelt Inter-Service Tournament: In April, Karl Hilberg hosted the Teddy Roosevelt Tournament along with a follow up clinic. The tournament hosted 4 teams with 8 participants being military or military family players. The tournament raised $2700 for a military charity. The follow up clinic had 8 members participate. The event will be back in April 2015. Fort Sill: Fort Sill held a Military match this past May on Mother’s Day. The audience was estimated to be close to 1,000 spectators. Five military members were on hand to participate in the game. The match was held on base at Fort Sill, helping bring military polo back to its roots. Pendleton Cup at Celebrity Ranch: In May, Mike Farah’s Celebrity Ranch, located in Temecula Valley, California, held their Pendleton Cup. Celebrity Ranch is located in close proximity to Camp Pendleton, home to the Marine Corps’ 1st Division. The audience was estimated to be over 400 and $50,000 was raised for charity. Hawaii: Hawaii held an Army vs Navy match to raise money for a military charity. The estimated crowd was over 500 and $12,000 was raised. 27
Flag Ceremony at the Celebrity Ranch Military Event
Great Meadows Military Appreciation Night: Mark Gillespie and Great Meadows held a Military Appreciation night and drew a crowd of 2000 people! They followed up with a clinic for those interested in learning more about polo. Poway Inter-Service Tournament: In November, Russ Sheldon hosted the annual Poway Inter-Service Military Tournament. There were four teams representing the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force. It remained a highlight for the year for the Armed Forces Committee. Additional events: Other events took place across the country including a US vs UK Army game at Grand Champions, the Prestonwood Military Cup, and the Honolulu Tropic Lightning Week. General George S. Patton Jr. Award: The first annual General Patton award was created this year to be given to the member who best exemplified the commitment to connecting Military member and their families to the sport of polo. The award was presented to Russ Sheldon at the 2014 USPA Annual Meeting. Goals for 2015: The committee is looking to work with the tournament committee to create a Sanctioned Military Tournament event. The committee will also be looking into providing a free membership for members who are on Active Duty. 28
USPA Audit Committee Committee Chair: Steven Rudolph Committee Staff: Robert Puetz
Mission Statement: The purpose and primary function of the USPA Audit Committee shall be to assist the Board of Governors of the USPA (the “Board”) in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities for (a) the integrity of the USPA’s financial statements, (b) the USPA’s compliance with any legal and regulatory requirements, (c) the independent auditors qualifications and independence, and (d) the performance of the USPA’s internal audit function and that of the independent auditors. (From the Audit Committee Charter)
Committee Members: Eugene Burk Charles G. Stanislawski M.B.T., C.P.A., C.T.C
Activities: The Audit Committee continues to work with Deloitte, our external auditor, to perform an annual financial audit of the entire association including the USPA and all of its associated LLCs as well as US Polo Properties. Additionally, the Audit Committee has conducted and responded, both formally and informally to several audit inquiries initiated by USPA members. As a result, the Committee has made several recommendations to the Board of Governors, to whom it reports. These recommendations include the creation and enforcement of a financial conflict of interest policy, guidelines for contracting services, and the number of positions that a USPA officer or employee may hold, particularly when the transfer of money is involved. All of these recommendations were designed to increase the financial transparency and strengthen the processes and procedures that support this end within the USPA. The Audit Committee continues to work with the Board of Governors, the USPA CFO, and others to sharpen the specific recommendations around these policies and their implementation. Lastly, please note that the Audit Committee itself has remained fiscally prudent and has not spent any of its budgeted funds to date. 29
USPA Board & Staff Development Committee MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of the USPA Board and Staff Development Committee is to, on an ongoing basis, study and offer recommendations on the establishment and continuous improvement of an efficient, staff-driven organizational structure. The Committee shall provide advice and support to the Association’s Chief Executive Officer in USPA personnel matters and offer advice and support to the Association’s Chairman in all matters relating to USPA Board of Governors and USPA Limited Liability Companies development. The Committee shall study USPA mission statement objectives and make recommendations to achieve stated goals, correct deficiencies, and ensure consistency, continuity and clarity in all areas of the Association. The Committee’s responsibility (concerning the USPA and subsidiary Limited Liability Companies), includes, but not limited to: human resources, information technology, staff oversight, staff compensation, staff development and succession, strategic planning, Board development and succession planning, and Board and staff evaluation and interaction. Annual Survey: The 2015 annual survey will kick off the end of January. The survey is an annual effort to measure the member satisfaction and help the association improve and better support the members and clubs. Employee Survey: The Committee has conducted and is in the process of conducting additional employee surveys with the intent of providing guidance to USPA management with regards to its employees. Email Opt-In Policy: The committee made a recommendation to break-down e-mail types to allow the membership to control the different categories and amount of USPA e-mails they receive. Approval of the LLCs and Organizational Chart: The committee recommended a continuation of the current LLCs as presented on the 2014 Organizational Chart. The USPA will continue to have three LLCs made up of: USPA Marketing, LLC; USPA Polo Development, LLC; and USPA Umpires, LLC. The recommendation was approved by the Board of Governors at the USPA Fall Annual Meeting. Updated Employee Manual and Disclosure Documents: The USPA employee manual states what is expected of employees and what employees can expect from the USPA. This guideline covers all aspects of the conditions under which management and employees communicate. Included in the employee manual are disclosure documents to protect the USPA and its employees from charges of impropriety.
30
Committee Chair: James Burton Committee Staff: Robert Puetz Committee Members: Charles Smith Dennis Geiler Amir Pirasteh Daniel Coleman Ilene Tognini Britt Baker
Circuit Governor Election: In accordance with the USPA Constitution, active member clubs participated in electing 13 Circuit Governors to serve on the USPA Board of Governors for a two year term. The Circuit Governors will help continue to improve USPA policies and advice on major USPA decisions. Member Contact and Demographic Information Policy: In an effort to protect the USPA members from unsolicited commercialization of their contact information and to regulate the use of private contact information for USPA electioneering the Board and Staff Development Committee created a Member Contact and Demographic Information Policy. The policy outlines specific uses for members demographic or contact information. The Policy was approved at the 2014 USPA Fall Annual Meeting. Board Oath and Obligations: The committee reviewed the document and updated it to be more comprehensive and inclusive. The New Oath passed through the Constitution Committee at the 2014 USPA Fall Annual Meeting. Governance Subcommittee: The BASDC has a long term study underway to review the 125 year old governance model to assure the membership that the USPA remains relevant with today’s membership needs. This is an ongoing study and includes outside consultants who work with a number of other like organizations. Conflict of Interest: The Committee is reviewing Conflict of Interest Policies provided by the USPA Audit Committee with the goal of adopting policies and procedures pursuant to IRS regulations and recommendations. IT Subcommittee: This subcommittee continues to monitor and suggest changes to the internal USPA IT structure. USPA Logo Use: The BASDC set forth guidelines and a process for official and unofficial use of the USPA Brand and Logo. Resolution 4.1: This Committee reviewed Resolution 4.1 as adopted on October 5, 2013 and recommended no changes be adopted. That resolution was again ratified by the Board.
31
USPA Constitution Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the Constitution Committee is to advise the USPA Chairman, Executive Committee, Board of Governors, Delegates and staff about all aspects of the USPA Constitution, By-Laws, Strategic Planning and Governance. The Committee shall prepare appropriate language to affect changes to the USPA Constitution and By-Laws as directed by the Board of Governors, other Committees, or on its own initiative. The Committee shall prepare other resolutions, opinions, and documentation as required to affect efficient and stable Governance. Activities: Revised Board Oath and was approved in the 2014 Fall Annual Board of Governors meeting. Obligations of the USPA Board of Governors I _________________ as a member of the Board of Governors of the United States Polo Association, do agree that as a Circuit Governor, Governor-at-Large or Officer: I shall abide by the Constitution and By Laws of the Association. I shall diligently, honestly, and to the best of my abilities attend meetings and participate fully in all proceedings of the Board. I shall deliberate openly, honestly, with careful consideration and in good faith in all proceedings of the Board. I shall administer the Association’s affairs faithfully. I acknowledge my responsibilities and fiduciary duties to the Member Clubs and Registered Members of the Association. I acknowledge I have duties of loyalty and care to the Association and I shall exercise my best judgment in carrying out my duties and responsibilities and place the interests of the Association before my own. I shall reveal any and all real or potential conflicts of interest on any matter that comes before me and recuse myself from deliberating and voting on any such matter. I acknowledge that in the due course of Association business, I may receive information of a proprietary, private, or sensitive nature. I shall keep any and all such information received by me confidential and only use, discuss, or reveal such information as required by my Board duties. I acknowledge that I have reviewed and understand the duties of my office and that I have reviewed all required disclosure requirements I shall keep the best interests of the sport of polo foremost in all my actions as a Board member.
32
Chairman: Daniel Coleman Committee Vice-Chair: Avery Chapman Committee Staff: Robert Puetz Committee Staff: Dennis Geiler Paul Jornayvaz Russell Sheldon George Alexander (Chairman Emeritus)
USPA Equine Welfare Committee Committee Chair: Mark Sedacca Committee Staff: Lindsay Dolan
Mission Statement: To recognize the value of the polo pony to the sport and to advise the USPA Chairman and Executive Committee on all aspects of the care and well-being of polo ponies. And to carry out Committee driven programs to ensure that polo ponies are treated in accordance with humane guidelines as established by this committee.
Sub Committees: Drugs and Medication William Patterson International Clint Nangle Horsemanship William Patrick Clark Publications Margaret Paur Unwanted Horse Lydia Sudick Committee Members: James Burton Richard Caleel Avery Chapman Tania Evans Sunny Hale Joshua Hall Yarrow Pallo Gwen Rizzo Daniel Scheraga Russell Sheldon Dale Smicklas Kim Snider Adam Snow Katherine Snow David Strouss Daren Tamplin Kathleen Timmons Barbara Uskup Alfredo Vargas Juan Villamil
New Mission Statement: In an effort to further ensure the safety and wellbeing of horses in our sport, the Equine Welfare Committee discussed updating their mission statement. During the April Meeting the new mission statement was created, approved and implemented. Trauma Kit Program: The Committee launched the Trauma Kit Program in early 2014 to further educate USPA clubs on basic equine first aid supplies they should have on hand at all times. Trauma kits were sent to the first 50 clubs who signed up. Kits were also available for purchase. The trauma kit included: bandages, tape, liquid stitches, antibiotic ointment, saline wash, gauze, scissors, a thermometer, examination gloves and more. Clint Nangle Award: The first annual Clint Nangle Award was presented to Clint Nangle himself at the April 2014 Governor’s Reception in Lake Worth, Florida. The award was created to honor excellence in the field of equine welfare. Both Club Delegates and Circuit Governors have been encouraged to award the Clint Nangle Award for Equine Welfare at the Club and Circuit Level. Kimzey Leg Brace Program: The Committee decided to bring back the Kimzey Leg Brace Program for 2015 due to the success of the 2013 program. Braces will be available through a lottery to the first fourteen clubs that respond. Replay Program: Brittany Halstead recommended to the committee to consider creating a website for donating horses to programs such as I/I, PATH (Professional
33
Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) and other non-profit organizations. The committee hopes to get this website up and running in early 2015. USPA Equine Drugs and Medications Program: The USPA promotes equine welfare and the balance of competition in polo through the implementation of the Equine Drugs and Medications Program (EDMP). The EDMP program began in 2011 and has tested approximately 500 horses. To date only 10 positive tests have occurred. The committee has discussed how to improve the testing process for 2015.
EDMP Testing 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Number of Tests
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
82
100
114
150
250
250
250
USPA EDMP Positive Test Results
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
2011
2012
2013
2014
*Testing began in 2011, there were no positive tests in 2011 or 2012.
Equine Welfare International Sub-Committee: Clint Nangle, Chairman of the International Sub-Committee, contacted various countries with hope to improve Equine Welfare across the globe, nine countries are already interested in offering their support. In addition, Chuck Weaver spoke on behalf of the sub-committee at the Federation of International Polo Conference in Argentina to help raise awareness. The Publications Sub-Committee: The Committee plans to release a second edition of the USPA Polo Pony Welfare Guidelines in 2015. The new version will include additional information regarding body condition scoring, legging up, and other valuable equine welfare related topics.
34
Finance Committee Chairman: Edward R. “Chip” Campbell, III Committee Staff: Susan Present Peter Rizzo
Mission Statement: The mission of the Finance Committee is to provide the USPA Chairman and Board of Governors direction for the fiscal responsibility of the USPA. This is achieved by a regular review of the organization’s financial statements along with the approval of the annual budget with submission to the full Board of Governors for approval, ensuring all are consistent with the strategic objectives and mission of the USPA. The Finance Committee also seeks to prudently manage organizational investments consistent with the duties outlined by the USPA’s Investor Policy and Guidelines.
Committee Members: Peter Alworth Avery Chapman Robert Daniels Robert Donahey Jake Flourney Dennis Geiler Thomas Gose Robert Jornayvaz III Joseph Meyer Samuel Ramirez, Jr. Charles Weaver
During the Year 2014, the Finance Committee restructured the Annual Budget preparation and presentation, including implantation of a program of controlled growth and spending designed to increase the USPA’s investments to a balance capable of self-funding operational subsidies required by the USPA, Inc. and its related entities, Marketing, LLC, Umpires, LLC, and Polo Development, LLC. In December 2014, the Finance Committee published an RFP for an Investment Consultant to advise the USPA on investment assets under its control with the goal of staying within an acceptable level of risk while providing for growth to meet future objectives, with final determination to be made in Spring 2015. 35
USPA National Handicap Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the Handicap Committee is to fulfill the highest standards of selecting an Outdoor/Indoor Handicap in service to any USPA member through the essential practices of honesty and integrity as we utilize the approved system of peer evaluation/observation by the Delegates of USPA Member Clubs, approved Circuit Handicap Chairmen, selected National Handicap Committee members and approval of the USPA National Handicap Chairman. To have regular meetings and procedures in selecting handicaps for those USPA members who have competed in the sport of polo in order to create the fairest possible competitive environment within the structure of the USPA and to make those handicaps publicly available to all members. Improving Handicapping Process: The Committee discussed numerous ways to improve the handicapping process. It was decided to open the meetings up to the general membership and to implement a voting system for handicaps 5 goals and above. Handicap Change Process: The Committee decided that the handicap effective date will be once a year. The committee retained the ability to change any handicap at any time due to extreme circumstances. Meetings will continue in Spring, Summer and Fall with recommendations from those meetings being carried forward into the Fall, with all recommendations/changes going into effect at the beginning of the following year, January 1st.
National Handicap Committee Process Club Handicap Committees Review Handicaps for Members at their Club
Club Delegates Submit Handicap Recommendations
13 Circuit Handicap Chairmen Review Recommendations and make any further recommendations
10 NHC At Large Members make Recommendations
National Handicap Committee Meets to Review and Discuss all Recommendations
National Handicap Committee Chairman gives Final Approval for all Handicaps
36
Committee Chair: Daniel Walker Committee Staff: Lindsay Dolan Circuit Handicap Chairmen: Adren Nance (Border) Peter Alworth (Central) Charles Muldoon (Eastern) Stephen Orthwein, Jr. (Florida) Michael Carney (Great Plains) Herman- Louis DeCoite (Hawaiian) Trey Schott (Mid-States) Ted Oslager (Northeastern) Michael Uretz (Pacific Coast) Kyle Fargey (Pacific NW) Robert Jornayvaz, III (Rocky Mtn.) Thomas Uskup (Southeastern) Kelly Beal (Southwestern) At- Large Members: Thomas Biddle Maureen Brennan John Gobin Mariano Gonzalez Thomas Goodspeed Steve Lane Martin Pepa Rick Sears
USPA High Goal Committee Committee Chair: Stephen Orthwein, Jr. Committee Staff: Robert Puetz Committee Members: Julio Arellano Joel Baker Kelly Beal Thomas Biddle Anthony Coppola Robert Daniels John Goodman Gillian Johnston Charles Muldoon James Newman Charles Smith Adam Snow Martin Pepa
Mission Statement: To advise the Chairman and BOG and committee chairs on all aspects of high goal polo in the US. To be the communication channel between the USPA and High Goal community including club managers, High Goal sponsors, and High Goal Professionals. To grow and promote the sport of polo at its highest level around the US.
R Bowman
High Goal Meetings: After several meetings with the High Goal Community at the International Polo Club, it was determined the High Goal Community did not feel properly represented with the High Goal Committee. The High Goal Chairman and USPA staff created a new High Goal Committee Guidelines based on the feedback from the High Goal Community. The Board of Governors approved the new High Goal Committee Guidelines. High Goal Election: In an effort to create a more broad representation and increased current player participation, the High Goal committee has restructured the process in which the committee members are chosen. Within the new USPA High Goal Committee Guidelines there will be two positions for eligible High Goal professionals and two positions for eligible High Goal sponsors. Any player who competed in 20 goal polo or above in the previous year is eligible to serve on the High Goal Committee. Positions will be filled through and election process by USPA high goal polo participants. The High Goal Committee Chairman will appoint a High Goal Polo Manager, a representative from the Umpires, LLC, a representative from the Rules Committee, and a representative from the Marketing, LLC to also serve on the committee. The new committee will begin in 2015. Lowering of National Events: The High Goal Committee discussed lowering both the 26 goal tournaments at IPC and the 20 goal tournaments at Santa Barbara Polo Club in an effort to increase team participation. It was decided not to make any changes at this time.
37
USPA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the Intercollegiate/Interscholastic (I/I) Committee of the United States Polo Association (USPA) is to promote and grow the sport of polo by providing maximum exposure to the sport; recruiting collegiate and scholastic institutions; coordinating activities of member schools and players; providing for organized competition including sponsoring & administering regional and national tournaments with an emphasis on sportsmanship, fairness and safety; and by effectively utilizing funding for the benefit of I/I activities. College Polo 101: The 5th Annual College Polo 101 Mentoring Clinic was held in Aiken, South Carolina where representatives from 10 collegiate programs attended a two-day intensive clinic with round table discussions revolving around club growth, fundraising, and member retention, along with a skills and drills session. The clinic also featured various speakers including 10 goaler Tommy Biddle. Newly added in 2014 is the launch of the “College Polo 101 – On The Road” series. Staff and contract clinicians travel to various collegiate programs and work with them in a hands-on environment. I/I Growth in 2014: The I/I season in 2014 showed growth in the overall participation in the program. The I/I program had 44 intercollegiate teams and 64 interscholastic teams compete in the tournament season. The 2014 I/I tournament season ended with a combined total of 32 tournaments and 108 teams, a record high! The National Tournaments were hosted by ERG in Brookshire, Texas (NIC); The Empire Polo Club in Indio, California (NIS); and the University of Connecticut in Storrs, Connecticut (GNIS).
I/I teams Competing in Tournaments 2011-2016 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
2011
Projected Total Teams Actual Total Teams
92
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
106
114
121
118
126
99
107
108
38
Committee Chair: Duncan Huyler Committee Staff: Amy Fraser Committee Members: Dr. Philip Abel Steve Armour Christopher Blythe Scott Boggess James Burton Annetta Evans Stan Feldman Melissa Ganzi Megan Judge Miranda Luna Robert Lynn-Kee-Chow Jon Nicholson PJ Orthwein Stephen Orthwein, Jr. Robin Sanchez Daniel Sheraga Russ Sheldon Caroline Stimmel Lynn Thompson Dr. Bruce Wells David Wenning Tom Wisehart
Interscholastic Teams Competing in Tournaments 2011-2016 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
2011
Projected Open IS Actual Open IS
30
Projected Girls IS Actual Girls IS
15
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
34
37
40
42
44
33
38
40
21
24
26
28
30
21
22
24
Interscholastic Players Competing in Tournaments 2011-2016 700
531 The number of Interscholastic players who competed in tournaments in 2014
600 500 400 300 200 100 0
2011
Projected IS Players Actual IS Players
2013
2014
2015
2016
270
290
544
600
229
259
260
208
229
244
300
459
509
530
439
459
491
531
Projected Total I/I Players Actual Total I/I Players
2012
These figures do not included an estimated additional 1000 students participating in an I/I Program as a JV, Club member or non-competing team.
Intercollegiate Teams Competing in Tournaments 2011-2016 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
2011
Projected Women IC Actual Women IC
30
Projected Men IC Actual Men IC
18
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
30
30
32
27
29
21
23
27
28
25
21
23
23
18
19
19
39
Intercollegiate Players Competing in Tournaments 2011-2016 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
148
158
168
170
190
148
150
127
82
92
102
104
120
82
97
104
Projected Women IC Actual Women IC
150
Projected Men IC Actual Men IC
81
Historical Growth of I/I Tournaments 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
231 1983
1993
2003
2012
2013
2014
Women IC
1
5
5
13
10
9
Men IC
1
5
5
8
8
5
Open IS
1
1
8
9
10
11
Girls IS
0
1
1
5
8
7
Total
3
12
19
35
36
32
I/I Start-Up & Enhancement: Through the Start-Up & Enhancement funding program, 24 teams were awarded a total of $33,000 for the use of purchasing tack and equipment, and to support fundraising opportunities. I/I Summer Review: Each summer, the I/I Committee reviews and makes changes to the I/I Tournament Conditions for the best interest of the program. Last summer’s main topics included raising the age limit of interscholastic participation from 5th grade to 7th grade, and the addition of a Middle School league for players in grades 5th – 8th. I/I Umpire Support Program: The I/I Umpire Support Program sponsored four USPA arena umpire clinics by the Umpire, LLC, hosted by Virginia Polo in 40
The number of Intercollegiate players who competed in tournaments in 2014
Historical Growth of I/I Teams 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
1983
1993
2003
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Women IC
9
18
23
28
30
27
28
25
Men IC
10
16
22
16
18
18
19
19
Open IS
7
7
22
24
30
33
38
40
Girls IS
0
2
3
14
15
21
22
24
Total
26
43
70
82
93
99
107
108
New Official USPA Collegiate Clubs 10 9
9
New Clubs
8 7 6 5 4 3
5 4 3
2
2
1 0
2009
2010
1 2011
2012
2013
2014
Year
Charlottesville, VA; Central Coast Polo Club in San Luis Obispo, CA; Houston Polo Club in Brookshire, TX; and Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. In addition, USPA certified arena umpires received compensation for umpire services provided during regular season qualifying games. National I/I Alumni Event: The Young Alumni Outreach and Student Athlete Advisory sub-committees were formed in 2012. The Young Alumni focus on engaging alumni for events, support, umpiring, coaching, etc. The Inaugural USPA I/I Alumni Championship, “The Feldman Cup�, was held in conjunction with the 2014 USPA National Intercollegiate Championship at ERG Arena in Brookshire, TX. Five teams of alumni from across the country competed for the trophy. USA vs. England: The USPA I/I team traveled to England in February for the second annual USPA I/I vs SUPA Britain intercollegiate tournament where each 41
organization puts forth a squad of national collegiate players. The USA team included the following players representing four regions of the country: Vicky Friedrichs (University of Virginia), Kailey Eldredge (Cornell University), August Scherer (Southern Methodist University), and David Samaniego (Westmont College). The USA team was victorious for the second year, and Vicky Friedrichs was named MVP!
I/I Team in the US Arena Open: The USPA I/I sponsored a team in the US Arena Open for the second year in 2014. The team of Nik Feldman (Cornell University), Todd Thurston (University of Virginia) and August Scherer (Southern Methodist University). The team went up against heavy hitters such as ten-goaler Tommy Biddle, and showcased our sportsmanship, horsemanship and playing ability. WCT Arena Finals: The USPA I/I sponsored the championship team in the WCT Arena Finals for the second year in a row at the California Polo Club in Los Angeles! The team included Audry Persano (University of Connecticut), Julia Smith (University of Virginia), Alyssa Daniels (University of Wisconsin – Madison) and Hollie Boggess (Texas A&M University). Audry Persano was named tournament MVP! I/I Middle School League: The fall of 2014 saw the launch of the new I/I Middle School league, which provided a tournament venue for our youngest participants in grades 5th -8th. Players could enter with a team, or as an individual and play their own mounts. A total of 75 participants in six regional tournaments were hosted by Maryland Polo Club, Garrison Forest School, Gardnertown Polo Club, San Diego Polo Club, Houston Polo Club and Maui Polo Club. USPA I/I Magazine: The I/I Magazine, in its 11th year of production, reached a record high in advertising, and featured season highlights, alumni spotlights, umpires’ points of views and other articles featuring players, coaches and parents. Be on the lookout for the 2015 I/I Magazine!
42
Congratulations to the I/I Polo Champions 2014 USPA Open National Interscholastic Champions: Natania Polo Club
Left to right: Kamran Pirasteh, Clavin Mulligan, Sophia Bignoli and Wyatt Harlow.
2014 USPA WCT Arena Finals
Left to right: Horse supplier & PNW Circuit Governor George Dill, Coach Claudia Uretz, Alyssa Daniels, Julia Smith, Audry Persano, Hollie Boggess, I/I Staff Ali Davidge and California Polo Club President Rodney Fragodt.
43
2014 USPA Girls’ National Interscholastic Champions: Maryland Polo Club
Left to right: Coach Kelly Wells, Maddie Grant, Marissa Wells, Abbie Grant and Stephanie Shultz. PH: Mike Ryan
2014 USPA Women’s National Intercollegiate Champions: University of Virginia
Left to right: Coach Lou Lopez, Mary Collins, Julia Smith, Vicky Friedrichs, Colby O’Neil and Coach LJ Lopez. PH: Frances Hinkle
44
2014 USPA I/I Alumni Tournament: The Feldman Cup
Left to right: Trophy donors Mr. & Mrs. Feldman, Ethan Gallis, Danika Rice and Jared Sheldon
2014 USPA Men’s National Intercollegiate Champions: Westmont College
Left to right: Coach John Wesley, David Samaniego, Tony Uretz, Patrick Uretz, Jake Bergman and Coach Wendy Wesley. PH: Frances Hinkle
45
USPA International Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the International Committee is to build and improve USPA membership by facilitating and promoting international polo events, including tournaments, umpire and player clinics to foster international fellowship and sportsmanship. The committee will co-operate with National Polo Associations, The Federation of International Polo, The Pan-American International Polo Foundation, The United States Olympic Committee and all other interested qualified groups or individuals in achieving its goals.
Jesse Bray during tournament training sessions at Grand Champions Polo Club
FIP Zone A Playoffs: Six Team USPA members were selected by a committee to participate in the FIP Zone Playoffs hosted in December at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. Prior to travel to Casa de Campo the team had a unique opportunity to participate in training sessions held in Florida during the month of November. Coached by Joel Baker the team competed at Grand Champions Polo Club for their Fall Season. The team was comprised of Jesse Bray, Jared Sheldon, Patrick Uretz, Will Tankard, Felipe Viana, and Mason Wroe. During the training period the team was able to bond and create a comradery that helped drive their victory at Casa de Campo. USPA went undefeated against Canada, the Dominican Republic and ultimately Mexico, to earn their place amongst other Zone Champions. Team USPA closed out the FIP Zone A Playoffs with a strong win of 10-3 against Mexico. Felipe Viana led the charge by scoring 6 goals, followed by Jesse Bray with 3 in the final. Team USPA will compete against the other Zone Champions in March of 2015 in the coveted FIP World Championships. 46
Committee Chair: George Dill Committee Staff: Lindsey Ebersbach Committee Members: Paige Beard Bruce Colley Melissa Ganzi Glen Holden Robert Leary Robert Miller Clint Nangle Stephen Orthwein Samuel Ramirez Wesley Ru Paul von Gontard Derek Wolstenholme Dr. Richard Caleel Stephen Orthwein, Jr. Doreen Ladin Lydia Suddick Edward Armstrong Geraldine Strunsky Mark Gillespie Patrick Nesbitt Tony Yahyai Chris Dawson
Fortune Heights Snow Polo World Championship: The third edition of the Fortune Heights Snow Polo World Cup took place from January 8-19, 2014. The USA entered a team comprised of Tommy Biddle (6), Pelon Escapite (6), Del Walton (3), and managed by Joel Baker. The tournament featured twelve of the top teams from around the world competing to take the title, prize money, and the prestigious trophy to their nation. The USA advanced to the quarterfinals but fell to Hong Kong in overtime. In 2015 Tommy and Del will return to China accompanied by 8 goal player Mike Azzaro. The tournament will take place at the end of January. Fortune Heights Super Nations Cup: The third annual Fortune Heights Super Nations Cup hosted by the Federation of International Polo and the Chinese Equestrian Association took place at the beginning of October at Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club. Four of the top teams from around the world gathered to compete in the 24-goal tournament. The USA was represented by Mike Azzaro, Nic Roldan, Andres Weisz, Carlitos Gracida, alternate Jason Crowder, and managed by Joel Baker. The Hong Kong team prevailed for the third year and took the title, the USA finished third. Manipur Polo International: For the second year the United States sent a team to the historic polo ground in Imphal, the capital city of the state of Manipur, India. The United States Polo Team was coached by Robert Leary and was made up of Daniel Tognini, Tenzin Tognini, Jacob Brown, Sebastian Aycinena, and Wyatt Harlow. The event was an open-invitation polo tournament played on the Manipuri Pony under the Indian Polo Association Rules. The tournament was organized with the prime objectives of: conserving the Manipuri Pony and preventing its extinction, popularizing the game in its place of origin and developing polo tourism in the State of Manipur. Nine teams competed in the tournament and the United States lost in the semi-finals to South Africa.
Dr. Richard Caleel, Brandon Phillips, and Pat Nesbitt at World Equestrian Games. Photo: Sandy Herron
World Equestrian Games: International Polo had a unique opportunity to send an American five goal player to compete in an exhibition polo game with “The Rest of the World� versus France in 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. 47
Brandon Phillips was selected to represent the United States in Nomandy for this unique event. Over two thousand spectators attended the polo demonstration to watch the teams’ battle for victory; unfortunately, “The Rest of the World” team fell short to the French in 10-6 loss. The event was an important step towards polo being included as an Olympic Sport. United States Participation in FIP YEAR
1987 1989 1992 1995 1998 2001 2004 2008 2011 2015
USA PARTICIPATION IN CHAMPIONSHIPS
HOST COUNTRY
Argentina Germany Chile Switzerland United States Australia France Mexico Argentina Chile
No Yes (Champion) Yes ( 4th Place) No Yes (4th Place) Yes No No Yes (Zone Winner) Yes (Zone Winner)
1st
RESULTS 2nd
3rd
ARG USA ARG BRZ ARG BRZ BRZ CHILE ARG TBD
MEX ENG CHILE ARG BRZ AUS ENG BRZ BRZ TBD
BRZ ARG ENG MEX ENG ARG CHILE MEX ITALY TBD
Team USPA Won 2014 FIP World Championship Zone A Playoffs. They are set to play Brazil, England and Pakistan March 24-29 in Santiago, Chile.
Federation of International Polo 12 10 8 6
Number of FIP National Teams
4 2 0
1987
1989
1992
1995
1998
2001
2004
2008
2011
5
8
6
6
6
8
4
8
10
International Polo Events from 2011-2015 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
2011
Projected Events Actual Events
2
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2
6
4
4
4
2
5
9
Note: Large event increase due to Sanctioned International Application
48
USPA Nominating Committee Committee Chair: Thomas Biddle, Sr. Committee Staff: Robert Puetz Committee Members: Mark Sedacca Christopher Dawson James Burton Chrys Beal Charles Smith Britt Baker
Mission Statement: The Nominating Committee shall consist of seven Registered Players, five of who shall be members of the Board of Governors and four of who shall be Circuit Governors. This committee will meet annually to consider and nominate a slate of Officers. This slate of Officers is to be conveyed to the Secretary of the Association at least two weeks in advance of the Board of Governors meeting prior to the Annual Meeting.
USPA Rules Committee Committee Chair: Thomas Gose Committee Staff: Robert Puetz Replay Sub Committee: Charles Muldoon Stephen Orthwein, Jr Jeff Hall Anthony Coppola Steve Lane Gus Whitelaw Committee Members: Daniel Coleman David Eldredge Charles Muldoon Stephen Orthwein Daniel Scheraga Mark V. Sedacca Charles Smith Steve Lane Thomas Hughes Christopher Green
Mission Statement: The mission of the Rules Committee is to advise the USPA Chairman and Board of Governors about all aspects of the USPA Rules and Rules Interpretations. Instant Replay: With the growing developments in technology the Rules Committee created Instant Replay Guidelines. To view the Instant Replay guidelines see the 2015 Tournament Conditions in the USPA White Book. International Rules Alignment: The rules committee met twice with Argentine Association of Polo and the Hurlingham Polo Association in an effort to create an international set of Rules for High Goal Polo between the three associations. Plans are to accomplish complete rule alignment within 2015. To review the rule changes for 2015, click here to view the 2015 USPA White Book. 49
USPA Safety Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the Safety Committee is to advise the USPA Chairman and Board of Governors of all safety aspects of polo through injury research, injury prevention and testing of protective gear, as well as communication of safety information and safety recommendations to polo players and polo officials. Umpires to wear helmets: It was adopted in 2013 that all mounted umpires are required to wear a helmet with a chinstrap during USPA sanctioned events. The new ruling ensures proactive measures taken by the USPA in an effort to make the sport safer for all participants, not just players. The Argentine Polo Association and the Hurlingham Polo Association also require umpires to wear helmets during their sanctioned events. Helmet Testing: The safety committee is actively testing new and updated polo helmets currently available on the market to the NOCSAE Standard. To-date there are two helmets that meet the NOCSAE Polo Standard. Eye Protection Testing: In addition to helmet testing, the safety committee tested 3 styles of goggles to the NOCSAE eye protection standard. As a result of the 2014 Fall Committee meeting, the safety committee will be contracting an independent researcher for eye protection standards and recommendations. ImPact Baseline Testing: ImPact Baseline testing is an online computer generated cognitive test that assists with diagnosis and return to play with regards to suffering a concussion. A $25 membership discount is available to all USPA youth members under the age of 26 who participated in ImPact Baseline Testing and incurred an out of pocket expense. Online Injury Survey: The safety committee survey, which was launched in October of 2013, has received a total of 429 responses reporting injuries from USPA members. The information will be collected and analyzed to better assess injuries within our polo community.
Injury Survey Responses 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Number of Responses
2013
2014
369
112
50
Committee Chair: Dr. Thor Norregaard Committee Staff: Amy Wisehart Committee Members: Chrys Beal William Bennett Avery Chapman Tony Coppola George Dill Robert Donahey Stan Feldman Merle Jenkins Clint Nangle Dr. Vic Ramon Stephanie Reissman Robin Sanchez Dr. Stephen Seager
USPA Tournament Committee Committee Chair: Michael Carney Committee Staff: Lindsey Ebersbach Committee Members: Anthony Coppola Charles Smith Craig Fraser Daniel Walker Edward Armstrong James A. Newman Jeff Hall Jennifer McLeavy Maureen Brennan Russell Sheldon Stephen Orthwein, Jr. Steve Armour Stormie Hale Toby Wayman
Mission Statement: To promote the sport of polo in the United States through responsible consideration and recommendation for the approval of tournament matches and events. It is the Tournament Committee’s responsibility to preserve the history and tradition of the sport of polo; encourage interest in the sport of polo; elevate the standards of play; promote involvement and the overall vitality of the game; and stimulate the growth of tournament play at all levels by hosting USPA Sanctioned, Circuit, and National tournaments at USPA member clubs. The Tournament Committee promotes an emphasis on sportsmanship, fairness and safety, while expanding the opportunities for professionals, amateurs, umpires, clubs, sponsors and spectators.
National Butler Handicap: The historic Butler Handicap was officially adopted as a National USPA Event in the 2014 USPA Annual Fall Meeting. The Butler Handicap has a long and rich history throughout polo, and in an effort to preserve the prestige the Butler family requested it be made into a National USPA event. The Tournament Committee endorsed the request and it was passed by the Board of Governors. The National Butler Handicap will be played at 20 goals beginning in 2015 at Bridgehampton Polo Club. USPA U.S. Open Arena Polo Championship and United States Arena Handicap: A three year contract has been approved for Country Farms Polo Club to host the USPA US Open Arena Polo Championship and United States 51
USPA Clubs Hosting Tournaments 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2009
2010
2011
Projected Clubs hosting Circuit Clubs hosting Circuit
2014
2015
2016
57
59
60
62
71
75 25
25
45
46
48
53
59 23
24
24
14
18
22
18
17
16
42
43
44
35
36
37
Projected Clubs hosting Sanctioned Clubs hosting Sanctioned
2013
56 42
Projected Clubs hosting National Clubs hosting National
2012
43
33
40
Arena Handicap. The polo club requested the Tournament Committee award the event for multiple years to help secure a potential sponsor. The extension will also help promote high level arena polo in Northeastern Circuit. The contract will begin in 2015 and Country Farms Polo Club will need to maintain 4-6 teams competing at or above the 12 goal level. National Youth Tournament Series: After an impressive inaugural year in 2013, the National Youth Tournament Series (NYTS) continued to grow throughout 2014. A total of sixty-five teams competed in various NYTS qualifiers across the country, which equated in over 270 junior participants for the year. The selected All-Stars from each Zone went to compete in the National Championship at San Diego Polo Club. With the addition of the NYTS program USPA Circuit Events have also continued to increase, 194 Circuit Tournaments were hosted in 2014 and NYTS qualifiers made up 27 of those events. H. Ben Taub Memorial: To honor H. Ben Taub, the Taub family requested the Tournament Committee consider creating the National H. Ben Taub Memorial. The committee held an e-mail discussion and unanimously agreed to recommend the event to the Executive Committee. The tournament was approved as a National Event and will begin to be played at Houston Polo Club in 2015. Silver Cup: A variance was requested by Santa Barbara Polo Club to lower the goal level of two National USPA events, the America Cup and the Silver Cup. After the High Goal Committee submitted a recommendation for a one year variance to lower both the tournaments, the Tournament Committee held a discussion. It was decided that the Tournament Committee would like preserve the prestige of the Silver Cup and requested it remain at the 20 Goal Level. Santa Barbara withdrew its request for a variance for the two national tournaments and the events will continue to be played at the 16-20 goal level in 2015. 52
USPA Women’s Polo Committee Committee Chair: Sunset Hale Committee Staff: Lindsay Dolan Committee Members: Chrys Beal Barbara Alexander Lesley Ann Fong-Yee Robin Sanchez Erica Gandomcar Rebecca Bollenbach Elizabeth Beer Stormie Hale Joanne Smicklas Arshia Rios Maureen Brennan Geri Dardi Clint Nangle Lynn Thompson Natasha Baescher
Mission Statement: To recognize the value of the polo pony to the sport and to advise the USPA Chairman and Executive Committee on all aspects of the care and well-being of polo ponies. And to carry out Committee driven programs to insure that polo ponies are treated in accordance with humane guidelines as established by this committee. Women’s Handicapping System: The Women’s Handicapping System was implemented January 1st, 2014. The conversion scale created by Sunny Hale was used to determine the new handicaps. The Women’s Handicap Committee met in April and in November, after the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship, to verify the accuracy of the Women’s Handicapping System. Currently, approximately 900 women hold a Women’s Handicap. Women’s Polo Promo Video: A new video was created by CreativeAmmo to promote Women’s Polo. It was launched at the April Meeting to the Committee and the USPA Board of Governors. The video was a huge success and has been used throughout the year in e-blasts and social media.
Circuit Women’s Arena Challenge: The committee discussed working with the Tournament Committee in 2015 to create the Circuit Women’s Arena Challenge. This will help to promote Women’s Arena Polo and encourage college and post college members to participate in USPA Circuit Events. 53
Women’s Championship Tournament (WCT) Arena Events: The WCT Arena Finals were held at California Polo Club in October. For the second consecutive year, the USPA I/I Polo Team was victorious. The team consisted of Hollie Bogges (TEXAS A&M), Audry Persano (CORNELL), Julia Smith (UVA) and Alyssa Daniels (UW-MADISON). WCT Outdoor Events: The 2014 WCT Finals were held at Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, Florida in April. With the new Women’s Handicap System in place, the tournament was broken down into three divisions (High Goal, Medium Goal and Low Goal) as well as a Junior Invitational. High Goal ChampionsNorthern Trust Polo Team (Kristy Outhier, Claire Brougham, Maureen Brennan, and Belinda Brody), Medium Goal Champions- LBL Polo (Alison Patricelli, Julia Steiner, Courtney Asdourian and Belinda Brody), Low Goal Champions- Escue Pink (CoCo Smith, Erika Lipton, Marissa Wells and Kelly Wells) and the WCT Junior Invitational- Diamonds (Malia Bryan, Hope Arellano, Mia Cambiaso. Olivia Merlos and coached by Gillian Johnston)
Women's Membership 2000 1800 1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0
Students Players Associates Dec 2007
Dec 2008
Dec 2009
Dec 2010
Dec 2011
Dec 2012
Dec 2013
Dec 2014
Students
444
471
364
564
604
588
709
647
Players
685
656
587
628
661
696
723
899
Associates
21
21
112
310
494
321
415
283
1150
1148
1063
1502
1759
1605
1847
1829
Total
Total
Women's Tournaments 35 30 25 20 15
Arena
10
Outdoor
5 0
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Arena
0
5
4
4
4
Outdoor
25
28
27
24
20
54
USPA Marketing, LLC Interim LLC Chair: Scott Walker Chief Marketing Officer: Christine Vermes LLC Staff: Daniel O’Leary April Wehle LLC Board Members: Bruce Colley Chris Dawson Melissa Ganzi Peter Rizzo
Mission Statement: The USPA Marketing, LLC’s mission is to help grow the sport of polo as measured by an increase in players, spectators and sponsors. The USPA Marketing, LLC, will do this by providing and coordinating all national promotion and marketing of the sport including: branding, advertising, press relations, television and internet broadcast, digital media, special events, strategic partnerships and national sponsorship programs. The formation of the USPA Marketing, LLC, was a direct result of the most recent USPA Strategic Planning effort, Polo 2020 – A Vision for the Future. The USPA Marketing, LLC, addresses the need to promote the sport of polo in the United States by driving all national marketing activities across the organization in an effort to accomplish the following:
•• •• •• •• •• ••
Support USPA member clubs with strategic communications and shared resources Establish and communicate a clear identity and positioning of the United States Polo Association as the authoritative national governing body of the sport in the United States Continue to broaden the exposure of the sport through broadcasting events on multiple media platforms including national television and live streaming Build an infrastructure and platform to generate revenue from partnerships and sponsorships to fund future marketing activities and to provide incremental revenue for participating clubs Collaborate closely with USPA Properties to demonstrate its position as the authentic brand of the sport by implementing marketing programs that directly tie the brand to the sport and the sport to the brand– its key point of differentiation from its competitors. Interact with USPA committees for internal and external public relations, communications and marketing initiatives.
Benchmark Research: As the Marketing LLC’s mission is to help grow the sport of polo, there were missing critical pieces of data necessary to help complete a strategic and effective marketing plan specifically: the size of the total available player member market, the segmentation of the player member market to better understand and prioritize opportunities for future growth, and the most prevalent paths to player membership. The USPA Marketing, LLC initiated a benchmark research project with SourceUSA. This fact-finding and analytical work that informed the USPA of key issues affecting player participation and retention. The Benchmark Research was implemented during the second quarter of 2014. Findings and recommendations were shared during the Annual Spring 55
Meeting in April. These findings have been critical to helping USPA Marketing, LLC make informed decisions about its marketing strategies and initiatives. Findings include: The highest priority target market segments (Equine Insatiables, Adrenaline Junkies and Aspirationals); The importance of I/I, arena and productive follow-up of past players; The importance of converting lesson takers to players and as well as the retention of them - 10% of new lesson takers will make it to a 2nd year and once they do that 10% of them will be lifetime member; The Total Available Market over the next 5 years with Polo Development alone would add 50 members annually but with marketing’s help we could add 150 a year. In the end, our research showed that we have to manage the entire experience from marketing’s role of building awareness, appeal and activating to Polo Development’s role in conversion, retention and commitment - we call this “Experience Management.” Public Relations: The 2014 PR strategy exposed nearly 90 million unique people to polo via television, digital and print news stories, a 115% increase from the year before for an approximate media value of $2.7M. Media outlets where the USPA Marketing, LLC, secured coverage include: The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Barron’s, SELF, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, CNN, Palm Beach Post, Daily Beast, Boston Globe, Financial Times, USA Today, Business Insider, etc. along with polo publications such as Morning Line, Polo Line, PoloZone, Hurlingham Polo, Sidelines, etc.
100% Percentage increase of people exposed to polo through TV, digital, and print news stories in 2014
Public Relations 90,000,000
$3,000,000
80,000,000
$2,500,000
70,000,000
$2,000,000
60,000,000 $1,500,000
50,000,000
$1,000,000
40,000,000 30,000,000
2012
2013
2014
Impressions
48,062,241
43,483,822
87,607,000
PR Value
$1,484,161
$1,342,779
$2,705,302
$500,000
The USPA Marketing, LLC engaged the strategic public relation’s agency Keating Co in July 2013 with the primary objective to align the press and media-relations strategy with USPA’s core objective to increase the number of people actively engaging with polo. We are certain that active engagement equals habitual spectatorship and/or regular polo playing at any skill level. In addition, the exposure polo has received from mainstream media has increased its publicity value and attractiveness to potential corporate sponsors. This visibility, combined with engaging story telling and positioning, is one of many sponsorship value drivers. Our primary target audiences are outside of the current polo community, have sufficient means to sustain themselves as a player, and are in a professional 56
80M+ Number of people exposed to polo in 2015
situation that would leverage polo’s networking opportunities. Personal stories from within this target audience about playing, loving and benefiting from polo is a principal vehicle that Marketing has to generate targeted media interest in polo. The strategy of communicating these personal stories of a wide range of people who have made polo a part of their lives has been effective as they provide inspiration and guidance to others who may have heard of polo, but don’t understand why they should get involved. Brand Development: Establishing and expressing a clear brand identity and positioning for the United States Polo Association as the authoritative governing body of the sport is a fundamental requirement to accomplish the Marketing LLC’s strategic objectives. In 2014, the Marketing LLC engaged Red Peak, a leading branding and marketing agency, to implement a process to develop the USPA Brand Platform encompassing the following three phases: Brand Audit and Assessment, Brand Positioning and Architecture, Brand Execution. Stakeholder research began in January and the process took over six months to complete. Findings from Brand Audit and Immersion Phase and preliminary concepts were presented at the annual spring meeting in April. The team presented our brand positioning of “Refined Adrenalin” which is visually represented in our new “look and feel” standards. The Brand Execution Phase, along with final concepts, was presented at the annual fall meeting in October. The Marketing LLC has begun to finalize USPA’s new mark and other creative concepts for implementation in 2015. USPA’s final creative concepts will also be used to create marketing and promotional templates that clubs can leverage to better promote themselves to future and current players and spectators of polo. The Marketing LLC plans to develop these templates in the first quarter of 2015 and make them available via an online portal (e.g. Asset Library) for easy download and implementation.
1M+
Viewers tuned-in to watch polo on television in 2014
Broadcasting: The most recent USPA Membership Survey (POLO 2020 – Vision for the Future) revealed that members believe presenting polo to a wider audience through targeted television programming and internet broadcasts of high profile polo events is critical to the growth of the sport. The Marketing LLC continued the broadcast momentum set in the previous year by broadcasting four (4) major events in 2014: the C.V. Whitney Cup (NBC Sports), the U.S. Open Polo Championship (NBC) the inaugural U.S. Polo Assn. Central Park Polo Challenge (NBC Sports), and the Piaget World Snow Polo Championship (NBC Sports). The combined viewership of these four broadcasts reached nearly one million viewers. The 2014 broadcasts generated over 3.5 million earned media impressions and nearly 200 direct leads from individuals interested in learning more about the sport. Substantial increases in traffic to the uspolo.org website (50% for the U.S. Open alone) and social media were also achieved. The programs are now being 57
re-aired on HRTV and HRTV.com for further exposure. HRTV reaches nearly 20 million homes in the United States. This exposure was also significantly less costly than previous efforts – reducing the cost per viewer from a high of $9.44 in 2011 to just under 40¢ in 2014. Sponsor support and scheduling on networks and time slots with greater viewership will reduce this cost even further in 2015.
Television Audience Size 600,000
260%
500,000 400,000 300,000
Increase in TV viewership YOY
200,000 100,000 0
Viewership
2013 U.S. Open
2013 Westchester Cup
2014 C.V. Whitney Cup
2014 U.S. Open
2014 Central Park*
2014 World Snow Polo
140,000
140,093
167,000
559,251
98,917
172,797
Sponsor and Partnership Development: In 2014 the USPA Marketing, LLC engaged IEG to develop and evaluate a custom corporate sponsorship program for the organization and some of its marquee events. IEG, the industry authority in global sponsorship monitoring and valuation, evaluated USPA’s assets and created packages for 2015 on a national level. The engagement included: Custom Packaging Strategy for USPA’s Designated Events & Club Assets; Sponsor Targeting Report; Valuation and Pricing Guidelines; Sponsorship Value of Event Broadcast Coverage received by USPA sponsors. The results of IEG’s study were presented to the USPA Executive Committee in July and then to the Board of Governors during the annual fall meetings in October. The results will be translated, packaged and presented to club members in a way that they can understand and reflects the challenges they encounter. The USPA Marketing, LLC began this rollout when the study was presented to over 50 club members and PDI recipients during the 2014 Instructors & Managers Forum present by USPA Polo Development, LLC. USPA Properties Collaboration: Joint branding and marketing initiatives with USPA Properties are already helping to move the brand closer to the sport, enhancing licensing revenue and accomplishing the primary strategic objective of the USPA – which is to grow the sport in the United States. The two entities, both subsidiaries of the USPA umbrella, in 2014 have collaborated on number of projects, including: NBC Sports Network polo broadcasts (C.V. Whitney Cup, U.S. Open Polo Championship and the U.S. Polo Assn. Central Park Polo Challenge) with vignettes and commercials that presented a cohesive voice, look and feel 58
to the polo community and general public; U.S. Polo Assn. entitlement of the inaugural Central Park Polo Challenge, which served as the finale for The Central Park Horse Show presented by Rolex, a four-day extravaganza of equestrian sports. Website Activity 1,000,000
800,000
600,000
400,000
200,000
100% Increase in the number of visitors and visits to uspolo.org
0
2013
2014
Users
78,763
149,567
Sessions
106,617
205,263
Pageviews
315,687
953,134
Definitions Users: Have had at least one session within the selected date range. Includes both new and returning users. Sessions: A session is the period time a user is actively engaged with your website, app, etc. All usage data (Screen Views, Events, Ecommerce, etc.) is associated with a session. Pageviews: total number of pages viewed. Repeated views of a single page are counted.
Website: The USPA Marketing, LLC is continuously striving to improve the way members and consumers experience the USPA, most importantly online. USPA’s current website does not support the needs of its members or has the functions a national governing body of a sport needs to promote itself or communicate important information to the general public. The USPA Marketing LLC has engaged U.S. Polo Assn.’s global website developer, Blue Fountain, to transfer information and USPA’s new brand creative onto an existing digital platform that coincides and aligns with U.S. Polo Assn.’s digital and online initiatives. Social Media: USPA kicked off 2014 launching an Instagram account to share our fans’ polo journey with images from around the country (and sometimes the world!) that capture the action and ambiance of the sport we love. To date, USPA’s Instagram account has over 1,300 followers. We have also had an increase of nearly 33% Facebook fans and nearly 80% Twitter followers since January 2013, reached by providing engaging and relevant polo content. Facebook fans are nearly 23,000 and Twitter followers are over 5,200. USPA is also leveraging its YouTube channel as a cost-effective opportunity to get our message out to the masses and educate and entertain the general public in an attempt to build our membership and spectator base. We invite our members to follow us on all four platforms to keep connected and engaged in our passion!
59
Social Media Activity 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0 Facebook Twitter
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
3,131
11,487
13,442
16,230
22,979
1,199
2,078
3,195
5,211
273
1,300
E-Communications: In early June, the USPA Marketing LLC was tasked with optimizing and streamlining communication requests internally and from USPA member clubs, and how the USPA should handle its member database. As a result, the Marketing team developed a series of communication policies and guidelines for internal groups and clubs to abide by when requesting information be sent to USPA members. Coinciding with this task, USPA Marketing LLC also created new and more professional e-blast templates, as well as other functions to make communications to members more engaging in an attempt drive down bounce rates and increase open rates. As a result, the USPA is creating and distributing more polo-related USPA and club content and information to its members. Publications: The USPA Marketing, LLC, is continuously striving to improve the online experience, and our official monthly publication, Polo Player’s Edition magazine is offered in print and digital. In addition to Polo Player’s Edition and other publication resources, the USPA created a USPA Club & Store Directory to be distributed to new members. This collaborative piece will serve as a resource for individual members and member clubs in the future. The publication will also be available in participating U.S. Polo Assn. stores around the country to educate consumers on the sport and how they can get involved.
29.5K+ People following us on facebook, twitter, instagram and youtube
www.instagram.com/USPoloAssociation
www.youtube.com/PoloAssociation
www.facebook.com/USPoloAssociation
www.twitter.com/PoloAssociation
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USPA Polo Development, LLC LLC Chair: Charles Smith Executive Director: Kris Bowman LLC Staff: Amanda Snow Elizabeth Holson Elizabeth Hedley Justin Powers Jessica Downey Amy Fraser Ali Davidge Emily Dewey
Mission Statement: Develop, institute, and manage USPA programs that grow polo through education, development, and assistance thereby fortifying clubs and membership. This includes the training and development of players of all ages and the training, educating and certification of instructors as well as the administration and evaluation of the PDI assistance to clubs. These programs will be the positive face of the USPA to clubs across the country.
LLC Board Members: Chrys Beal Dennis Geiler Duncan Huyler Peter Rizzo
The Polo Development team has had a busy year helping you to grow your clubs and membership. Some of our key accomplishments have been:
•• •• •• ••
Initiating a successful middle school arena polo program Creating a Certified Polo Instructor Program Developing a Polo Drills and Skills Booklet for Instructor’s and coaches Purchasing the PoloSkilz Network so it can be the number one learning resource for all levels of polo development
The future holds in store:
•• •• •• •• ••
An official USPA Polo Manual A National Youth Tournament Championship located in the center of the United States for players 19 and Under Team USPA players who have all come up through the Interscholastic / Intercollegiate program to represent USA in the World Championships in Chile March 24th Over $400,000 dollars in Polo Development Initiative funding distributed to applicants who are committed to the growth of our sport Free Club Consulting and Player Clinics for USPA member clubs
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USPA Club & Membership Development Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the Club and Membership Committee is to promote the sport of polo in the United States through conceiving and developing programs and strategies to increase membership, improve the quality of the polo experience by its membership and to retain clubs and membership. This will be done by creating programs such as Polo Development Initiative, Regional Polo Centers, and other strategic club and membership programs. Once developed these programs and strategies are disseminated to the membership through our network of clubs.
R Bowman
Circuit Strategic Planning: The Polo Development, LLC’s staff conducted Strategic Planning sessions with seven circuits. The goals of these sessions were to educate and inform the circuit of the various programs and services the USPA offers, identify opportunities for growth and better tailor communications and assistance to individual clubs as well as identifying growth opportunities in individual clubs and regions. Polo 2020- A vision for the Future: Following the USPA’s strategic plan the Club and Membership Development Committee saw the Polo Development Initiative (PDI) funding increased to $375,000 in 2014. Polo Development Initiative (PDI): In 2014 a record 75 applicants applied for PDI funding a 15% increase from 2013. The projected metric for new Registered Players at 2014 PDI clubs was 156 Registered Players. The actual metric for Registered Players at 2014 PDI Clubs was 176 Registered Players, 12% higher than 62
Committee Chair: Dennis Geiler Committee Staff: Justin Powers Committee Members: Lesley Ann Fong-Yee Steven Armour Chrys Beal Scott Brown Max Duarte Julie Empey Diego Florez Kyle Fargey Ilene Tognini Thomas Goodspeed Jef Graham Glenn Hart Jim Huber Andrew Jasco Megan Judge Richard Lara Scott Lancaster Erik Wright Chip McKenney Mark Nance Margaret Paur Amir Ahmad Pirasteh Robin Sanchez Scott Walker Ed Armstrong Paul Jornayvaz
projected. Additionally, the PDI program strived to meet a projected percentage of new Registered Players compared to the Total new members through 2014 PDI clubs of 30%. The actual percentage was 38.6%.
Polo Development LLC Interaction by Month 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0
Jan
Feb March April May June July
2013 Clubs 2014 Clubs
93
95
97
101
2013 Interactions 2014 Interactions 381
456
272
280
90
Aug Sept 94
96
Oct
Nov
Dec
100
104
108
117
121
125
358
334
289
259
190
78
84
105
108
111
113
113
358
330
322
383
212
303
350
285
212
140
142
The increase in clubs reached includes potential USPA clubs applying for membership in the USPA
Polo Development LLC Interaction 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0
2013
2014
Interactions
2586
3270
Clubs
108
121
2015
2016
1. The number of clubs reached increased which is a direct relationship to the Polo Development LLC taking over the Club Approval Process 2. 2014-2016 Projections will be made after a full year of data is established as a baseline
Polo Development, LLC Reach: The Polo Development LLC interacted with 125 clubs in 2014, up from 108 clubs in 2013, an increase of 16%. The club consulting program includes club marketing and promotion work through the Outside the Boards Program. In 2014, the Club Consulting program identified and trained 3 new contract club consultants. Those consultants worked with 13 individual clubs. 2014 also marked the development of the Club Consulting Folder which contains collateral relating to the polo eco-system, sustainability, polo experience, and player development.
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Outside the Boards/Polo Development LLC Promotion: The Outside the Boards program and Polo Development, LLC Promotions program produced the following material in 2014: 12 monthly newsletters featuring key initiatives of the Polo Development, LLC. The newsletter open rate averaged 34%, roughly 5% more opens than the average USPA open rate. Continuous Facebook postings posting throughout the year. On site marketing and promotional planning and implementation for the following: NYTS Championships in San Diego, CPI Pilot testing in Aiken and Houston, Instructors and Managers Forum in Houston, and FIP Pool Play at Casa de Campo. Key PPE articles, interviews, and jot form submissions for Team USPA, NYTS, I/I, and other Polo Development, LLC Programs. The Outside the Boards program continued to consult polo clubs on marketing and promotional initiatives and developed and produced the Club Consulting Folder featuring Club Development Collateral. Instructors & Managers Forum: The ever popular annual Instructors & Managers Forum (IMF) saw another year of success in 2014. Metrics projected 67 attendees in 2014 and the actual participation was charted at 69 participants. 60% of the 2014 participants were first time participants. 86% of participants found the event “very well organized” & 14% found the event “organized”. Highlights of the 2014 IMF from exit surveys (rating 1-5): Maintaining a Healthy Polo Pony (71% scored a rating of 5); Outside the Boards (71% scored a rating of 5); Breakout Sessions (80% scored a rating of 5).
Instructor's Forum Participants 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Projected Participants
45
51
55
62
67
70
Actual Participants
45
51
75
68
69
1. Instructor/ Manager Forums in 2014 2. Roughly 60% of the 2014 attendees were first time attendees. A 10% increase from 2013 3. 2014 IMF marked the 3rd consecutive year the event was at max capacity
Certified Polo Instructor Certification: In 2014 the Polo Development, LLC undertook a project decades in the making, a certified polo instructor program. The Polo Development, LLC set an ambitious goal of launching the program in 2015. The process for developing the program includes: research, testing, process and resource development. In 2014 (and December 2013) Polo Development, LLC organized three focus group sessions with leaders in Polo Instruction. These focus groups developed the structure of the program and the manual. Additionally, periodical web form submission and review sessions advanced the framework of the program. Finally, the Polo Development, LLC performed three pilot testing sessions with Polo instructors from across the country.
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Associate and Junior Memberships at Houston RPC 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
28
24
20
16
18
11 24
28
Projected Associate Actual Associate
42
36
9
16
Projected Junior Actual Junior
18
22
22
26
Associate memberships have declined. This is directly related to a culture sift away from FYF members to pushing full Playing Memberships.
Total and Playing Memberships at Houston RPC 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
2011
2012
Projected Total RPC Members Actual Total RPC Members
2014
2015
2016
160
162
162
164
177 118
120
169
165
165 114
116
113
111
123
140
Projected Player Actual Player
2013
% Breakdown of Memberships at Houston RPC 82% 80% 78% 76% 74% 72% 70% 68% 66% 64% 62% 60%
2011
2012
Projected % of Player of Total Actual % of Player of Total
66.9%
67.3%
65
2013
2014
2015
2016
71%
72%
73%
73%
74.5%
79.1%
% Breakdown of Memberships at Houston RPC 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%
2011
2012
Projected % of Associate of Total Actual % of Associate of Total
2013
2014
2015
2016
18%
15%
12%
10%
6% 15%
17%
24.9%
21.8%
10.9% 11%
14%
5.3%
9.7%
13.3%
14.7%
Projected % of Junior of Total Actual % of Junior of Total
PDI Clubs Applying 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2011
Projected Applications Actual Applications
31
2012
2013
2014
2015
50
65
75
80
65
77
73
PDI Clubs Awarded 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
45
46
50
50
51
65
70
Projected Awards granted Actual Awards granted
31
66
New Playing Membership at 2014 PDI clubs 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0
2011
2012
Projected Total PDI Members Actual Total PDI Members
2014
2015
2016
312
520
548
616
456 164
185
703
188
566 94
156
15
32
127
176
Projected Player Actual Player
2013
The New Membership at 2014 PDI Clubs charts measure the members who have initially joined the USPA in 2014 via a 2014 funded club. One facet of the PDI program is to generate USPA members. These charts aim to measure the success of membership development via the PDI program.
New Associate and Junior Membership at 2014 PDI Clubs 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
125
208
219
246
137
154
Projected Associate Actual Associate
445
99
282
180
78
130
126
40
140
100
Projected Junior Actual Junior
Year to Date Breakdown of Membership2014 Awarded PDI Clubs 60% 40% 20% 0% Actual % of Player of Total
2011
2012
2013
2014
2.1%
17.0%
22.4%
38.6%
25%
30%
Projected % of Playerof Total
2015
2016
30%
30%
Year to Date Breakdown of Membership2014 Awarded PDI Clubs 70% 50% 30% 10% Actual % of Associate of Total
2011
2012
2013
2014
63.3%
52.7%
49.8%
39.5%
45%
40%
24.7%
21.9%
20%
25%
Projected % of Associate of Total Actual % of Junior of Total
17.9%
21.3%
Projected % of Junior of Total
67
2015
2016
40%
40%
25%
25%
USPA Junior Polo Committee Mission Statement: To cultivate and promote junior polo throughout the United States by providing the organizational structure to support junior polo clinics, tournaments, and international competition. The program will utilize Regional Polo Center instructors, experienced Team USPA members, and other qualified instructors as mentors and clinicians. Junior Polo will also work with US Pony Club and other youth equestrian organizations to develop new playing members of the USPA. National Youth Tournament Series: Until the Junior Polo Committee was reinstated in 2012 there was nothing targeted at youth player development outdoors offered by the USPA. The National Youth Tournament Series (NYTS) program is designed to prepare young players for tournament polo. NYTS is the first national outdoor tournament for youth and is designed to prepare young players for tournament polo. NYTS Qualifiers are full field, four chukker polo held between March 1st and the first Monday in August. The National Championship is held over Labor Day Weekend.
NYTS 2014 Champions - Zone 3 Wes Finlayson, Juan Bollini, Grant Ganzi and Christian Weisz Photo: Jim Bremner
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Committee Chair: Chrys Beal Committee Staff: Amanda Snow Liz Holson Committee Members: Brandon Alcott Haley Bryan Teal Lachlan Margaret Paur Charles Smith Nick Snow Carolyn Stimmel NYTS Sub-Committee: Chrys Beal, Chair Amanda Snow, Staff Kris Bowman Haley Bryan Kelly Price Nick Snow Carolyn Stimmel
27 NYTS Qualifiers
Garrett Smith and Jim Wright defending Juancito Bollini. Photo: Jim Bremner
After the success of the 2013 Inaugural NYTS season the 2014 season has surpassed all expectations with at total of 27 qualifiers held at 24 USPA clubs across the country with the National Championships at the San Diego Polo Club, it was another banner year. •• At each of the qualifying tournaments at least four players were selected as tournament All-Stars, who were then eligible to compete in the National Championship event. The All-Stars were selected based on their tournament performance in horsemanship, sportsmanship, playing ability at their current handicap and how they play as a team player. •• Two hundred sixty players competed in 2014 NYTS and 122 of those were named All-Stars. •• Over 1,000 spectators turned out for the final game, pitting Zone Three (Florida, the 2013 defending Champions) against Zone Two (Central, MidStates, and Southeast) for the second year. Zone Three once again came out victorious, as the 2014 Cecil Smith Cup NYTS National Champions. •• One of the goals for this year’s NYTS National Championship was to increase the training available to the players at the event. Coaches were appointed for each of the zones and ran teleconferences with their teams leading up to the event, video reviews after the games, and led team meetings for players throughout the tournament. •• The NYTS program showed substantial growth in its second year. Most interestingly there was an 18% increase in players who competed in more than one qualifier, with a 14% increase in total number of players in 2014. Since NYTS was created, the number of USPA members 19 & under with a rating has increased from 77 to 416. 69
NYTS Growth Includes Percent Increase from 2013 to 2014
300
14%
250 200 150
23%
100
14%
50
12%
19%
18% 50%
0 Total Participants
All Stars
Played in 2 NYTS
Played in 3 or more NYTS
Total Juniors in More than 1 NYTS
Qualifiers
Total Teams
2013
22
57
240
99
37
3
40
2014
27
65
274
122
42
6
48
2014 Figures as of 1/5/2015
Rating Breakdown of Junior Players 300 250 200 150 100 50 0
2012
2013
2014
C Rating
2
20
30
B/B.5
25
186
257
A/A.5
31
86
83
1/1.5
13
27
34
2+
6
12
12
2014 Figures as of 1/5/2015 2014-2016. Projections will be made after a full year of data is established as a baseline.
Clinics & Local Leadership •• In 2014 USPA has conducted 70 clinics for young and aspiring players in all 13 circuits with over 900 players participating. •• The success of this program has been in part to the incorporation of contract instructors to the program. By using top instructors as USPA Clinicians we have been able to grow the clinic program and increase the number of clinics 64.3%. •• An increased focus in training for USPA Clinicians in 2014 has also led to
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Since NYTS was created the number of rated youth players increased 440%.
the increased capacity for follow-up that the USPA Polo Development, LLC staff can provide to host clubs in order to help promote sustainability in each circuit.
Clinics by Year 120 100 80 60 40 20
In 2014 the USPA has conducted 70 clinics in all 13 circuits
0
2012
Projected Clinics Actual Clinics
2013
2014
2015
2016
24
53
80
100
42
70
22
2014 Figures as of 1/5/2015
“This is probably the 22nd clinic that I have hosted/sponsored/instructed at in the 23+ years that I have played polo and it is the first one that I have actually been able to take part in. I had a chance to brush up on my skills and improve my play and horsemanship. It was an extremely rewarding experience. I was getting burned out on polo and now I am out promoting it again and already have some new people lined up to learn this incredible game. Thanks to the USPA and especially to Henri.” – Melissa Joseph, La Grande Polo Club, Pacific Northwest about the USPA Clinic that Henri duToit conducted. Pony Club •• The USPA-US Pony Club relationship has continued to grow, with 12 Pony Club clinics held in 2014. •• The USPA Polo Development, LLC has begun working closely with the US Pony Club incoming Chair of their Polo Committee, Judy Kosanovich. Judy has already been enthusiastic in growing the prominence of the sport among US Pony Club members and is looking forward to getting a rally on the books in 2015. •• Initiatives allowing the USPA to conduct clinics with US Pony Clubs then partner them with clubs at the local level to support ongoing education, have been successful across the board. •• The addition of the I/I Middle School Program has given many US Pony Club members an outlet in which to compete and many US Pony Club parents are looking forward to the program. 71
Team USPA Committee Mission Statement: The mission of the Team USPA Committee is to enhance and grow the sport of polo in the United States by identifying young, talented American players and providing mentored training and playing opportunities leading to a pool of higher rated amateur and pro players and the resultant giveback to the sport of polo.
Committee Chair: Charles Smith Committee Staff: Kris Bowman Amanda Snow Committee Members: Steve Armour Chrys Beal Thomas Gose Gillian Johnston Joseph Meyer Charles Muldoon James Newman Owen Rinehart Peter Rizzo Adam Snow Tommy Wayman
Program Background Information: Team USPA consists of 57 young American polo players from ages 18-25 that were selected by the United States Polo Association based on their talent, enthusiasm and dedication to the sport of polo. By providing mentorship opportunities with top polo professionals, Team USPA members learn from the success of their predecessors. Team USPA members also participate in a variety of clinics and attend lectures on topics ranging from natural horsemanship to building skill sets. In its fifth year, twelve new members were welcomed to the Team USPA program in 2014. The Team USPA program has also successfully created countless opportunities through the Young Player Outreach Program (YPO). The Young Player Outreach program consists of over 200 USPA members from ages 16 to 30, who are provided Team USPA training opportunities around the country throughout the year in an effort to support more young polo players. With a strong foundation, supported by polo players (professional and amateur), polo team sponsors and polo club owners/managers, Team USPA will provide 72
Team USPA Total Selected and Current Membership 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Selected
24
36
44
52
64
68
Projection
24
32
39
46
53
60
Current
24
32
37
45
57
1. Plan to continue to add 8 new members per year 2. The “Current Members” projections are based off on the previous removal rate of 11%
57
Team USPA Member Participation 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
The number of Team USPA members in 2014
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
62
132
135
142
149
157
Actual Jobs/ Mentoring
63
129
106
131
171
Projected 12-14 Goal
42
76
80
84
88
Actual 12-14 Goal
42
76
79
63
91
Projected 16-20 Goal
13
14
15
15
16
Actual 16-20 Goal
13
14
32
12
31
Projected Jobs/ Mentoring Opportunities
92 17
Goal level ( Ex: 16-20 Goal) represents the number of tournaments played by Team USPA members
more opportunities to players of all levels who participate in the United States. Training & Clinics: Team USPA hosted year-round training opportunities, maximizing mentoring from polo professionals in Florida, Wyoming, South Carolina, California, Texas and Argentina:
•• ••
10-week Argentina Training Program attended by Jake Stimmel, Loreto Natividad and Jimmy Wright Lectures by industry professionals in Wellington, FL; Aiken, SC; Indio, CA; 73
Team USPA Interaction with Clubs 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0
2013
2014
Projected Club Touches Actual Club Touches
201
598
69
101
Projected Clubs Touched Actual Clubs Touched
2015
2016
650
682
110
115
Projections will be made at the end of 2014 after establishing a trendline. In 2014 the team USPA interaction with clubs will be measured both on a playing and umpiring/ other basis.
•• •• •• •• •• ••
and Sheridan, WY Dartfish Swing Analytics Training in Houston, TX YPO/Team USPA Advanced Player Clinic in Wellington, FL Horse donation program, providing polo opportunities to talented players who do not yet own their own string YPO Umpire Clinic in Wellington, FL and Aiken, SC under professional umpire, Bradley Biddle YPO Umpire Clinic in California under professional umpire, Carlos Galindo Umpire Training resulting in 22% of CC to BB umpires (8-16 goal level) and 20% of all rated umpires are Team USPA members
Giving Back to Polo: Team USPA Players value mentoring young players, and are committed to giving back to polo and sharing the skills that they have learned through the program. Team USPA members umpired NYTS events and taught clinics across the U.S. in 2014 including: Houston, Boston, Wyoming, Wellington, Aiken, and many other locations. Team USPA members have also spent time in their local clubs supporting the efforts at the club level by offering their umpire services. 101 USPA clubs have hosted a Team USPA member with a total of more than 557 interactions including umpiring, playing, mentoring, teaching, or coaching. International Polo: Team USPA players have represented their country and the USPA in multiple international events including; England - Patrick Uretz and Will Tankard won the Bryan Morrison Cup, Chile – Nick Snow competed in an international friendly, South America – Mason Wroe, Nick Snow, Felipe Viana and Will Tankard defeated South America at Myopia Polo Club, India – Wyatt Harlow and Sebastian Aycenena traveled to India to participate in the 8th Manipur Polo International, and the Dominican Republic – Mason Wroe, Jared Sheldon, Jesse Bray, Patrick Uretz, Will Tankard and Felipe Viana won the F.I.P. World Championship North America Zone Playoffs, advancing to the World Championships March 2015 in Santiago, Chile. Argentina: Cody Ellis, Herndon Radcliff, Will Tankard, Remy du Celliee Muller and Jake Stimmel spent the fall season training in Argentina 74
75%
of all USPA 12 goal tournaments were won by a Team USPA member
Team USPA Interaction with Clubs 600 500
42%
of all American 3 & 4 goal players 30 years old and younger are Team USPA members
400 300 200 100 0
2014
Club Touches-Playing
519
Club Touches-Umpiring/ Other
247
Projections will be made at the end of 2014 after establishing a trendline. In 2014 the team USPA interaction with clubs will be measured both on a playing and umpiring/ other basis.
Team USPA Rating and Umpire Certifications 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Projected Certified Umpires
23
32
39
46
53
60
Actual Certified Umpires
23
32
39
44
50
Projected 0-2 Goals
18
24
30
36
41
Actual 0-2 Goals
18
24
29
34
38
Projected 3-4 Goals
6
8
9
10
11
Actual 3-4 Goals
6
8
10
11
12
Projected 5-6 Goals
0
0
0
0
1
Actual 5-6 Goals
0
0
0
0
0
75
45 12 3
Awards Used for Polo String Improvement: Equus & Co. Award - The 2014 Team USPA Equus & Co. Award recipient was Jesse Bray. Jesse used this $10,000 grant towards the purchase of two horses. Remy du Celliee Muller was awarded the $10,000 Team USPA High Goal Achievement Award after a successful high goal season in Santa Barbara winning the Pacific Coast Open for ERG. High-Goal Mentor Opportunities: High-goal players donated their time to mentor Team USPA players. Hector Galindo, Sugar Erskine, Adam Snow, Owen Rinehart, Julio Arellano, Jeff Hall, Mariano Aguerre, Nick Manifold, Carlucho Arellano and many more volunteered their time and expertise to support the next generation of players. High-goal teams such as Tonkawa, ERG, Orchard Hill, White Birch, Grants Farm, Coca Cola, Mansour and many more have supported the program since its inception, and have hired Team USPA players. Team USPA players competed in thirty 16 - 20 goal tournaments in 2014. The Team USPA program produces an educated player who has reached their full potential as a polo player, who is a certified umpire, and is committed to giving back to their polo community in countless ways. This program will be felt exponentially throughout the polo circuits for years to come.
114
Professional polo player's rating progression over a 20 year span 10 9
Owen Rinehart
8
Steve Dalton
USPA RATING
7
Brandon Phillips
6
Tommy Biddle
5
Kris Kampsen
4
Charlie Muldoon
3
Adrian Wade
2
Adam Snow
1 0 -1
AVERAGE 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Taking a composite of the above 8 professionals. It can be projected that it will take 6 1/2 years to progress from 0 to 5 goals. ASSUMING HE OR SHE HAS ACCESS TO GOOD HORSES
76
Young Player Outreach Members
PLAYER
Owen Rinehart
Steve Dalton
Brandon Phillips
0-5
RATING 6+ HIGHEST
4 YEARS 10 YEARS
5 YEARS
9 YEARS
1 YEAR
1 YEAR
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
10
Owen received a gift of 5 high goal horses from Seth Herndon when he was 7 goals. These horses helped him raise his game to 10 goals. Before that he received horses from people he worked for.
6
Steve didn’t own his own horses until he was 6 goals. He depended on Bart Evans and Dale Smicklas.
6
Brandon didn’t own horses until he was 5 goals. Memo Gracida provided him horses until he was 6 goals.
Tommy Biddle
7 YEARS
6 YEARS
8
Tommy was supported with horses by his father during the beginning of his career.
Kris Kampsen
7 YEARS
1 YEAR
6
Kris was supported with horses by his father during the beginning of his career.
6
Charles was supported initally by his father with horses and later mentored by Memo Gracida and Eduardo Heguy.
6
Adrian was mentored by Carlos Gracida. Carlos provided Adrian horses to start off and then he added one excellent horse per year until he could go off on his own.
10
Adam was mounted by friends and family from Myopia when he started to play professionally. His first winter in Florida he played a combination of horses from his Dad, Peter Orthwein and George Haas. After that, he began playing for Brook Johnson and Adolphus Busch and they mounted him almost entirely until he got to 7/8 goals.
Charles Muldoon
Adrian Wade
Adam Snow
10 YEARS 10 YEARS
6 YEARS
1 YEAR
6 YEARS 14 YEARS
77
TEAM USPA’S TOP 10
TOP TEN REASONS TEAM USPA ROCKS
Jesse Bray reaches 5 goals
# 1 - They Reach 5 goals Team USPA is proud to announce that we have reached one of our founding goals! When the program launched we set our sights on one member reaching a 5 goal handicap within 5 years and as of January 1, 2015 Jesse Bray Team USPA member since 2011, will be the first member to hold a 5 goal handicap. Jesse was rated 3 goals when he joined the program and Team USPA has supported him every step of the way. #2 - They Dominate the 12 goal Want to increase your chances of winning the 12 goal? Play with Team USPA! A Team USPA member has won over 75% of 12 goal USPA tournaments in 2014. # 3 - They Manage Polo Talk about experience management! Team USPA educates our members on everything it takes to run a successful polo club from finances to lesson programs to field maintenance. In 2014, 18% Team USPA members were employed in the business of polo.
# 4 - They Field USA Team for F.I.P. A team of all Team USPA members was selected FIP Team USPA 4 Goal Player Felipe to represent the U.S. in the 2015 Federation of International Polo World Championships. Viana Jesse Bray (4), Felipe Viana (4), Jared Sheldon (3), Patrick Uretz (3), Will Tankard (3) and Mason Wroe, coached by Joel Baker, and have won the North America Zone Playoffs this past December in Casa de Campo defeating Canada, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. They will advance to the World Championships, to be played in March 2015 in Santiago, Chile. # 5 - They Won the P.C.O. Team USPA is not only sweeping the 12 goal level this year! Our very own 2-goaler Remy du Celliee Muller earned himself the Team USPA High Goal Achievement Award for his Remy du Celliee Muller wins Team USPA outstanding performance in the Pacific Coast Open 20 goal in Santa Barbara. High Goal Achievement Award 78
# 6 - They Are Good Umpires Team USPA proudly claims 22% of CC to BB umpires (8-16 goal level), and 20% of all rated umpires are Team USPA members. # 7 - They Impact Our Clubs Team USPA members have touched 86 polo clubs in 2014, playing at 62 of those clubs and umpiring or instructing at 26. Team USPA Umpiring NYTS at Houston Polo Club
# 8 - They Are Good American Players 42% of all American 3 & 4 goal players 30 years old and younger are Team USPA members. # 9 - They Carry Out Tradition Team USPA members are coached by the true American legends of the sport. Tommy Wayman, Red Armour, Charles Smith and countless others pass on their polo knowledge to Team USPA members who then bring what they learned back to local clubs.
# 10 - The Importance of Horsemanship Team USPA program emphasizes the importance of horsemanship. Our members Team USPA Chalk Talk vs Canada in FIP are placed in mentorship positions with the leading Trainers and Breeders in the industry.
For more information on Team USPA, please contact Amanda Snow asnow@uspolo.org. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/teamuspa. 79
USPA Umpires, LLC Honesty – Transparency – Integrity – Respect Mission Statement: The mission of the USPA Umpires, LLC, is to support all aspects of the umpire services and programs within the United States Polo Association. This includes training and certification, support of the USPA professional umpires, the club and circuit umpire expense reimbursement program, along with the umpire exchange program.
LLC Chair: Britt Baker Executive Director: Charles Muldoon LLC Staff: Steve Lane Maggie Mitchell Bradley Biddle LLC Board Members: Robert Daniels Thomas Biddle, Sr. Thomas Gose Peter Rizzo
Overall Achievement: The demand for professional umpires has increased over 400% in the last 3 years and is still growing. Bottom-line, the USPA members want better umpiring and the USPA Umpires, LLC will continue to grow and advance to give the members what they want. In 2014 the main focus was to improve umpiring quality and availability to all USPA clubs. Our goal was achieved, significantly increasing umpire services and the number of games that were professionally umpired. With added technological support, professional umpires were able to use video and aerial to aid them in their training and development. New for this year, all professional umpires wear uniform attire with the USPA Umpires, LLC logo. The new apparel gives the umpires a sense of belonging and creates an identity to the polo clubs. Umpire Training & Certification: Umpire enforcement of the USPA Rules & Rules Interpretations is the top priority for all certified umpires. The LLC has developed a training and evaluation system which gives umpires the opportunity to reach a higher rated level. The LLC places a strong emphasis on consistency of performance. USPA members must feel confident that the certification rating reflects the highest level of training and observation for that umpire rating. Accomplished umpires are an invaluable asset, and should be considered a top priority for clubs hosting USPA events. In 2013 we had 60 certified arena umpires and in 2014 we increased to 95 certified arena umpires. In 2013 we had 170 certified outdoor umpires and in 2014 the number rose to 217 certified outdoor umpires. There are 47 umpires with dual certifications, 53 new outdoor umpires, 17 new arena umpires and 14 umpire upgrades for 2014. Umpire Training Clinics & Seminars: For USPA trained and certified umpires; adherence to high standards and professionalism earns respect from players and
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1,200+ The number of professionally umpired games in 2014
clubs, as well as results in pride within the ranks of certified umpires. For players and clubs, umpiring excellence will be witnessed on the polo field and taught in USPA approved umpire clinics and seminars. Umpiring excellence makes the sport safer, more competitive, and fun to play and to watch. In 2014, there were 25 umpire Clinics and Rules Reviews, with 453 attendees. Professional Umpire Program “PUMP”: Is responsible for the ways and means of achieving umpiring excellence in the United States. There is a greater demand for professional umpire services at USPA clubs and foreign clubs. Executed club contracts for professional umpires increased 20% and the number of professionally umpired tournaments doubled. Member clubs are now adding more USPA tournaments and events to their programs. Currently there are a total of 23 certified professional umpires rated at: “AA” - 7, “A”-3, “BB” - 9 and “B” - 4. During the season, 2 “BB’ umpires were raised to “A” and 6 “B” umpires were raised to “BB”. In 2014, there were 92 professional umpires contracts written, and they officiated over 1200 games at 70 USPA clubs. USPA Outdoor & Arena Rules Testing: To become a certified umpire, applicants must be a current registered USPA member and take the test each year, passing with a 95% grade for Outdoor and a 94% grade for Arena. They must also be observed every 3 years with a recommendation made by a designated USPA Umpire Certifier. In 2014: •• 217 - Outdoor Certified Umpires •• 95 - Arena Certified Umpires •• 47 - Dual Certifications (umpires with both Outdoor and Arena Certifications) •• 53 - New Outdoor Umpires •• 17 - New Arena Umpires •• 14 - Umpires raised in Certification (Upgraded) Arena and Outdoor
•• ••
271 - Number of Outdoor Tests 87 - Number of Arena Tests
Umpire Management Program “UMP”: Each USPA circuit governor is allocated “UMP” funds, based on the amount of member clubs, registered players and affiliate members within their circuit. The UMP Program is focused on paying local, certified umpires. There was a total amount of $228,000 allocated to the 13 circuits of the USPA. Over 70 USPA clubs received umpire reimbursements through the UMP Program in 2014. Foreign Umpire Program: US professional umpires will be afforded opportunities to travel abroad to train and mentor with peer professionals for their continued education and enhancement. Argentina requested “AA” American umpires for the 2014 Argentine Open, but due to previous commitments, they were unable to participate. Plans to send umpires in 2015 are in the works. Matias Baibiene (Argentina) umpired the high goal season in Wellington and Santa Barbara. Julian Appleby (New Zealand) also umpired the high goal season in Wellington. USPA Umpires, LLC acquired Visa’s for JJ Boote (Argentina) and Fergus Gould (Australia) this year. Boote umpired at several East Coast clubs this summer and Houston in the fall. Charles Muldoon attended Rules & Regulation meetings in Argentina this fall. England (HPA), Argentina (AAP) and the US (USPA) have all agreed to follow the same rules for polo tournaments 20 goal and above beginning in 2016. International Professional Umpire Contracts: Several of the LLC’s professional umpires traveled to England, Guatemala, Canada and Mexico to officiate at the Club’s
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requests. Positive feedback from these clubs to the LLC, reported, that professional umpiring significantly improved the level of their tournaments. Technology Support: Implementing ways for umpire development through aerial and instant replay. The “Drone” proved as a valuable lesson aid in their weekly playby-play discussions at umpire meetings. Test centers this summer, helped establish technical requirements for Instant Replay: cameras, placement and set-up/take down timeframe. They also determined guidelines for instant replay: ie. As to what instances the umpires can use it and what the trigger points will be. National Association of Sports Officials “NASO”: All professional umpires are members of this organization, which includes officials from the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, etc., as well as collegiate and scholastic sports. Fundamentally their main focus is educating players and their members on the positive side of officiating. All sports have the same basic issues, and NASO is there to help and support each organization in any way they can. Additionally they offer a legal team to help officials; up to a $3 million liability policy. Bob Delaney: Delaney was hired at the beginning of the winter polo season as an advisor to LLC to help improve the program. He was a former NBA referee for 25 years and undercover police officer for the New Jersey State Police. Delaney’s goal was to challenge each umpire to be in competition with himself to be the best they can be, and not be in competition with each other. The umpires’ goal of maintaining a high level of consistency comes by constantly working to improve. Delaney believes there are three teams in every sporting event, the two competing and the officiating team. All of them strive to get better every day. Umpires are an integral part of polo and the LLC is providing the tools for polo umpires to get even better. Officials in every sport want to get the calls right and giving them every opportunity to make sure that happens is management’s responsibility. The umpire’s responsibility is to take those opportunities and improve individually so the officiating team improves. Future Goals: Timeline for Umpire Services •• 2015 - Umpires, LLC to provide one umpire (free of charge) to all Circuit and National events with four teams participating at 6 goal and below •• 2016 – all Circuit and National events 8 goal and below •• 2017 – all Circuit and National events 12 goal and below In addition, beginning in 2015 the Umpire LLC will begin transitioning into providing all umpire services for I/I. •• 2015 – scheduled to umpire all Regional and National Tournament finals •• 2016 – scheduled to umpire all Regional and National events •• 2017 – scheduled to umpire, with additional funding, all events for I/I (600-1,000 games) Our single largest challenge is to grow the number of umpires to meet our goals through 2017. To ensure that we maintain the highest quality of Professional Umpires we have established an ongoing professional training program. With this program we expect to: •• Evaluate and train existing B - AA umpires •• Create unity and consistency on how the game is called •• Recruit additional B – AA umpires Future plans to host boot camps for professional umpire training; •• 2015 – 1 Boot Camp/year •• 2016 – 2 Boot Camps/year •• 2017 – 3 Boot Camps/year
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Certified Umpires- Arena (AA,A,BB,BBT) 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
2009
2010
2011
Projected AA/ A Actual AA/ A
2
0
7
0
0
0
Projected BB/BBT Actual BB/BBT
2012
2013
2014
2015
7
7
8
9
7
7
9
0
1
1
0
3
2
5
Certified Umpires- Arena (B, BT, CC, CCT) 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0
2009
2010
2011
5
2
13
Projected B/BT Actual B/BT Projected CC/CCT Actual CC/CCT
0
0
3
2012
2013
2014
2015
12
12
14
16
11
11
17
7
10
12
4
9
12
14
Certified Umpires- Arena (C, CT) 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
24
29
40
54
15
30
46
Projected CU
18
18
Actual CU
7
9
Projected C/CT Actual C/CT
9
3
20
83
18
Certified Umpires- Outdoor (AA, A, BB,BBT) 25 20 15 10 5 0
2009
2010
2011
Projected AA/ A Actual AA/ A
9
7
8
Projected BB/BBT Actual BB/BBT
3
13
20
2012
2013
2014
2015
11
12
13
14
9
11
13
17
18
19
17
17
22
20
Certified Umpires-Outdoor (B, BT, CC,CCT) 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
2009
2010
2011
Projected B/BT Actual B/BT
8
9
20
8
7
21
Projected CC/CCT Actual CC/CCT
2012
2013
2014
2015
35
35
35
35
28
29
31
20
21
22
20
27
22
24
Certified Umpires- Outdoor (C, CT) 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
2009
2010
2011
Projected C/CT Actual C/CT
16
20
53
2012
2013
2014
2015
77
82
85
92
67
72
87
Projected CU
30
60
Actual CU
14
21
84
90
Total Certified Umpires (Arena and Outdoors) 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
2009
2010
2011
Projection Arena Actual Arena
16
2012
2013
2014
2015
50
77
100
116
5
43
37
60
95
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
160
198
234
275
141
170
217
300 250 200 150 100 50 0
2009
Projection Outdoor Actual Outdoor
44
56
141
Professional Umpire Contracts and Games Officiated 1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 Actual Contracts
2012
2013
2014
10
39
92
2015
Projected Contracts
21
62
115
Projected Games
500
1000
1440
862
1246
Actual Games
152
1. Clubs that contracted for 1 umpire in 2013 are now requesting 2 umpires for 2014 season. 2. After the 1st quarter in 2014, all Professional Umpire contracts will be by the month, not by the game.
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USPA Properties, Inc. Mission Statement: As the exclusive licensee of the USPA, USPA Properties, Inc. (USPAP) is a for-profit corporation, organized to serve as the steward of the USPA’s intellectual properties and to develop a long-term source of income for the USPA by developing a global sportswear marketing program. Vision: The vision and objective of the Company is to build a global brand that speaks to the authenticity of the spirit of polo. Our design inspiration comes from our connection to the sport itself: over 120 years of tradition, heritage and “Classic American Styling.” Our strategy is to capitalize on the principles that are unique to the USPA; our products are value driven (quality at a reasonable price) in the moderate to upper-moderate tier of distribution. The royalties generated from the contractual relationship are paid to the U. S. Polo Association, who utilizes these funds to grow, market and promote the sport of polo in the United States through various programs ranging from education at polo clubs and interscholastic/intercollegiate venues to adult training centers that teach how to play and umpire the game.
Business Overview: The U.S. Polo Assn. Brand consists of a complete collection of men’s, women’s and kids’ clothing, including accessories such as watches, shoes, purses, belts, eyewear, luggage, handbags and home textiles. Our official product can be found in over 130 countries and over 450 mono-brand U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores, driving our mission to generate revenue for the USPA from the licensing of their trademarks globally 86
Chairman: G. Stephen Felker, Sr. President/CEO: W. David Cummings Treasurer: Robert W. Donahey Secretary: Gerry Aschinger Directors: Thomas J. Biddle, Sr. Joseph P. Meyer Jack L. Shelton Peter Rizzo
United States Polo Association 9011 Lake Worth Road Lake Worth, Florida 33467 (800) 232-USPA ∙ uspa@uspolo.org
R Bowman