Thanks for your interest in the Interscholastic programs at Brandywine Polo Academy. Our mission is to provide access for children to the sport of polo. Our focus will be on developing solid polo fundamentals, horsemanship and having fun. We also hope to instill competitiveness and good sportsmanship.

During our summer season which runs from May 1st through October 10th we maintain two strings of polo ponies at the Brandywine Polo Club and play polo throughout the week. In the fall and winter we campaign teams that compete in the United States Polo Association’s inter-scholastic tournaments. At that time we travel to play at several colleges and high schools along the east coast.

A typical week during the summer session involves an instructional practice session, one organized game, either inter-club or with visiting teams, and a session for open riding.  We also run a three day tournament at the end of July which attracts players from around the country.  To begin participating players only need a riding helmet and a good pair of riding boots. Horses and equipment are provided by the program. We anticipate having approximately 20 players for the 2010 season split approximately evenly between boys and girls.

Existing players that meet our basic playing standards can enter directly into the Academy and are required to join the Brandywine Polo Club and the US Polo Association.   Academy dues are $1,000 for the summer season which can be paid directly or via selling sponsorship to BPA.  For players that want to work to reduce their financial obligations a credit of $8 per hour can be earned for work during the adult training sessions throughout the summer.  This credit will be rebated monthly to working players up to a total rebate of $500. 

For children who would like to join the Academy but have never been exposed to polo before we offer two alternatives which allows new players to experience the sport without a major commitment and allows us the time to develop basic skills before integrating them into Academy programs.

The first is called Kids Introduction to Polo (KIP) which involves 8 one hour sessions held on Mondays and Thursdays over a 4 week period at the beginning of the season.  KIP costs $250 and no USPA or BPC membership is required.  KIP is limited to 8 students and begins May 11^th at 4pm and ends June 4^th.

The second means is via participation in a summer youth clinics designed for new players.  Our clinics run over 4 full days from Monday through Thursday.  The New Player Youth Clinic for the 2009 season is limited to 8 players and begins on June 15^th at 9am and ends Thursday June 18^th.  The cost is $600 for day students and $800 for those that require room and board.  No USPA or BPC membership is required.

In closing, a note to parents. Polo is a passionate sport which can be extremely engaging for young player; the partnership with the horse, the speed and team play. However, participants and their parents need to be aware that polo is a dangerous sport. At BPA we do everything we can to minimize the risk.

Please contact us for more details at scottwbrown@verizon.net or 302 897 0912.