Hello Delegates and Happy New Year,

The USPA is performing a survey of its membership to determine their wants and needs.  Please complete the attached survey by hitting the “click here” button in the text of the message.

Team USPA:  Jesse Bray and Remy Mueller from the Pacific Circuit were chosen to join our previous Team USPA members from last year.  They will participate in a Team USPA clinic in Florida this winter and also one in Wyoming this summer.

Carlitos Galindo of the Pacific Circuit and Team USPA is a finalist for the Equus & Co. Award which is awarded to the Team USPA player who made the most commitment to the sport of polo and its growth.  They will submit an essay and the winner will be awarded $5,000.

A Pony Welfare Committee has been performed for the Desert Clubs.  Mike Manno, DVM, is the chairman.  Ed Armstrong from the USPA will be visiting the next two weeks in the desert.  The USPA and Mike will be having a meeting that is open to all polo players to review the new Drug Testing Rules and discuss the current polo pony welfare issues.

The USPA has a reimbursement program for Clubs that purchase the Kinsey Brace.  This is a brace that is used when a horse breaks its leg or has a severe injury.  It is used so that the horse can be moved from the playing field to its barn or vet hospital.  The cost is around $400.00 and the USPA will reimburse around $100.00.  Every club should have one in hopes that it will never have to use it.

PDI-  We have a new budget for 2011 PDI applications so be sure that your club applies.  A PDI is a grant of up to $10,000 to fund a program or programs at a USPA Club that are designed to increase its membership.  Contact Ed Armstrong at the USPA for more information and an application.

The USPA is sponsoring an Arena Centennial Cup.  Any club can have a qualifying tournament.  Winners of the qualifying tournament can go to Palm Beach to play in the finals which will occur at the same time as the US Open.  Contact Ed Armstrong for more information.

The Southern California Summer League will be revived.  This will be a tournament that transfers from club to club and is played all summer.  Points are given for wins and losses.  There will be a finals match and prizes awarded.  This is a great way to see other clubs and meet other polo players.  Check with your club manager to be sure your club is participating.  Club Managers should check with Heather Perkins (714) 791-8369.

The USPA has prepared a very nice plaque that has the USPA Code of Conduct.  It is a very nice presentation and would look good in either a club house or a manager’s office.  If you haven’t received one please contact me or Ed Armstrong.  There is no cost.

The USPA will pay for an umpire to work at one of your feature games.  I have two to award this year so have your club contact me to make arrangements.  I’m keeping a list of the awards each year so we can spread this benefit among the various clubs of our circuit.

Best wishes for the winter polo season and for an improving economy.

See you on the field,

Denny Geiler
Pacific Circuit Governor