Learn the game. Build the skills.
Polo Academy
The next step after your first introduction to the sport — a structured, supportive, multi-week program at Menlo and South Bay designed to take you from beginner to confident player.
The Academy
What it is
The Polo Academy is a multi-week training program that teaches the core fundamentals of polo through hands-on instruction and progressive learning. Each session builds on the last, allowing you to develop confidence in the saddle, improve your swing, and begin playing real chukkers by the end of the program.
- 6–8 week structured sessions
- Weekly lessons at a consistent day and time
- Small group formats with professional coaching
What you'll learn
Riding & Horsemanship
Develop balance, control, and confidence on a polo pony.
Mallet Skills & Swing Technique
Learn proper grip, form, and timing to strike the ball effectively.
Game Rules & Strategy
Understand positioning, right-of-way, and how the game flows.
Team Play & Practice Chukkers
Apply your skills in real-game scenarios and beginner scrimmages.
What's included
- Trained and suitable polo ponies
- All tack and equipment (mallets, saddles, safety gear)
- Professional instruction each session
- Guided progression from basics to gameplay
What to bring
- Boots with a heel
- Riding helmet (or borrow one)
- Comfortable riding attire
- Protective eyewear
2026 Schedule
Academy programs
$1,750 per academy
South Bay Polo Club
Three 8-week academy programs in 2026
Spring Academy
Saturdays at 9:30 AM
May 9 – June 27
Summer Academy
Saturdays & select Sundays at 9:30 AM
July 12 – August 30
Fall Academy
Saturdays at 10:15 AM
September 19 – October 24
Includes two practice chukkers with club members.
Menlo Polo Club
Two 6-week academy programs in 2026
Spring Academy
Saturdays & Sundays at 10:30 AM
May 31 – July 11
Summer Academy
Sundays at 10:30 AM
July 19 – August 23
Academy Graduate Tournament
Saturday, August 29
On the Menlo field (additional cost)
Each session runs ~90 minutes and builds week-to-week.
South Bay also offers an Advanced Polo Academy for those looking to further develop skills and strategy in a group setting.
Your pathway
From first ride to Club Chukkers
1
Intro to Polo
Clinic or private lesson.
2
Polo Academy
6–8 week structured program.
3
Coaching Chukkers
Play with a pro on the field.
4
Club Chukkers
Full member play next season.
Ready for the next step?
Join Coaching Chukkers
A new Collective package for folks rolling off the academy. $5,000 for two chukkers, twice every weekend, always played with a professional on the field calling whistles and coaching you as you go. The perfect transition before joining Club Chukkers next season.