Exciting Season Planned At The National Polo Center In Wellington
By The United States Polo Association
Located in the heart of Wellington’s renowned horse country, the USPA National Polo Center (NPC) is the United States Polo Association’s premier venue and the perpetual home for polo in the United States. Arriving at the property, visitors are greeted by a palm-tree-lined drive that leads to six of the most manicured polo fields in the world.
Every Sunday from the end of December until the last week of April, catch the action from the stadium, private boxes, fieldside tailgates or special hospitality tents, all overlooking the prestigious U.S. Polo Assn. Field One. Participate in the halftime divot stomp and enjoy champagne to fully immerse yourself in the traditions of Sunday polo.
Celebrate the George Miller Memorial season opener on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, and kick off the New Year with the Heritage Cup final set for Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. The 2025 winter season is highlighted by the Gauntlet of Polo, from February to April, featuring the world’s top teams, athletes and horses competing for the historic C.V. Whitney Cup, USPA Gold Cup and U.S. Open Polo Championship trophies.
Sunday brunch at the Pavilion features an ever-changing array of freshly made pastries, an omelet bar and other delicious items. Savor your meal on the spacious outdoor terrace with a fieldside view of the finest polo in the nation, or elevate your experience in the Polo VIP Lounge with a private check-in area, exclusive fieldside seating, a bottle of champagne, and a blini and caviar spread. On the stadium side, be sure to indulge in an Argentine asado or stop by the wooden horses to try your hand at the game. After the game, make your way to the Mallet Grille and pool area for live music, cocktails and a chance to mingle with the players.
Beyond the Gauntlet of Polo, NPC also hosts the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship showcasing the world’s top female players in North America’s most significant women’s polo tournament. For the first time, the semifinals will be held at NPC and will be scheduled earlier in the season than in previous years. Also on the docket is the third edition of the NPC 16-Goal Championship, a series of four qualifying tournaments — the Joe Barry Memorial, the Ylvisaker Cup, the Iglehart Cup and the Outback Cup — that culminate in a final overarching competition.
The NPC season will also showcase USPA members from clubs around the country competing at the low-goal level, including the National President’s Cup. The second edition of the tournament at NPC and under the new format will bring together some of the most talented 8-goal teams in the nation. The tournament consists of up to 14 regional qualifying tournaments, with the winning teams advancing to the National President’s Cup and traveling to NPC in April.
Embrace the grandeur of the “sport of kings,” by becoming a member of the Polo Club at NPC, which offers a variety of membership opportunities, including social, junior and equestrian packages. Membership benefits include access to restaurants and social facilities, including a private resort-style pool, spa, fitness center and tennis courts.
Over the past year, NPC’s tennis program has expanded significantly with the addition of renowned tennis instructor Scott Williams. The 2025 tennis season promises to introduce more competitive teams, tournaments and clinics for NPC members.
Membership also includes access to exclusive events held throughout the week, such as the popular Chef Experience Wine Dinners and a dynamic speaker series with a range of distinguished guests, along with discounts on season box or tailgate purchases.
Additionally, the Wellington venue serves as a vibrant community hub, boasting more than 7,000 square feet of versatile entertainment space, with multiple restaurants and areas for public or private events. NPC’s adaptability shines as it hosts a range of activities, including fundraisers for leading local charities, weddings, corporate gatherings, indoor candlelight and outdoor concerts. Perfect for hosting hundreds of guests, NPC offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for special occasions. The possibilities are endless with an expansive outdoor oasis suited to host anything from other sporting events to graduations on one of NPC’s top fields.
Regardless of group size, NPC provides many spaces perfectly suited to meet each event’s requirements. The 7th Chukker, located in the heart of the stadium, offers a beautiful patio overlooking U.S. Polo Assn. Field One, providing an ideal setting to enjoy the match. The space can accommodate 50 seated guests or 100 attendees for cocktail-style events.
Meanwhile, the open and airy poolside Mallet Grille, known for its iconic polo mallet chandelier, offers members an exclusive dining experience. Ideal for hosting small to medium-scale events, the restaurant provides a picturesque view of the field. For a more casual option, the Pavilion Café, open to the public and frequented by the polo community, offers a selection of salads and handhelds, perfect for a weekday lunch stop.
Overall, NPC stands out as a world-class venue, with picturesque facilities, diverse dining options and a vibrant calendar of events. The facility welcomes spectators every Sunday afternoon from Dec. 29 through April 27 to experience the prestige of U.S. Polo Assn. Field One.
The National Polo Center is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington. Secure your tickets or plan your next event by visiting www.nationalpolocenter.com.
