What the Houston Polo Club is and who plays there

The Houston Polo Club is a private membership organization in Houston, Texas that hosts polo matches and events. Polo is a team sport played on horseback where players use mallets to hit a ball into the opposing team's goal. The club operates its own grounds and holds matches during a regular season, typically from fall through spring.

The club draws members from across the Houston area who own horses, play polo, or want to watch matches. Some members are experienced polo players who compete in tournaments; others are newer to the sport or attend primarily as spectators. The club also hosts social events and dinners alongside polo matches.

Key Takeaways

  • The Houston Polo Club is a private membership organization where members can play polo, watch matches, and attend social events.
  • Membership typically requires paying an initiation fee and annual dues, with costs varying based on membership level and whether you own horses at the club.
  • The club holds matches during its regular season, usually from fall through spring, and members can watch or participate depending on their membership type.
  • New members often start by attending matches as spectators or taking lessons before committing to full playing membership.
  • The club's facilities include polo fields, stables for horses, and clubhouse spaces for dining and events.

Types of membership and what each includes

The Houston Polo Club offers different membership levels to fit different interests and budgets. A playing membership is for people who own horses and want to compete in matches. This level typically includes the right to play in club tournaments, access to the fields and facilities, and invitations to member events. Playing members usually pay both an initiation fee and annual dues.

A non-playing or social membership is for people who want to attend matches and events but do not play. This membership costs less than playing membership and gives you access to the clubhouse, the ability to watch matches, and invitations to dinners and social gatherings. Some clubs also offer guest passes, which let you attend a single match or event without joining.

Some clubs have a horse boarding membership for members who want to keep their horses at the club's stables. This adds a monthly boarding fee on top of membership dues. The club provides stalls, feed, and access to the practice fields for your horse.

How to inquire about membership

To learn about joining the Houston Polo Club, contact the club directly through its main office or website. Most clubs ask you to fill out a membership inquiry form with your name, contact information, and which membership level interests you. You may be asked about your polo experience, whether you own horses, and what drew you to the club.

Many clubs require that new members be sponsored or recommended by an existing member, though this varies. If you do not know anyone at the club, call and ask whether you can attend a match as a guest first. This lets you see the facility and the sport before committing to membership.

The club will provide you with information about current membership fees, what each level includes, and the process for completing your membership. Fees and requirements can change year to year, so ask for the most current details when you contact them.

What happens during the polo season

The Houston Polo Club's season typically runs from fall through spring, with matches held on weekends. The exact schedule varies each year and depends on the number of teams and tournaments the club is hosting. Matches are usually held on Saturday or Sunday afternoons, and the club often hosts a social event or dinner afterward.

Playing members compete in matches organized by skill level and team. The club may run a league where teams play a series of matches, or it may host individual tournaments. Non-playing members can watch from the sidelines or from the clubhouse, and many bring family and friends to the matches.

Off-season, the club may offer polo lessons for people who want to learn the sport, clinics for players who want to improve their skills, and social events for members. Some clubs also use the off-season to maintain the fields and facilities.

Costs beyond membership dues

Membership dues cover access to the club and its facilities, but other costs may explore depending on how involved you become. If you play in matches, you may pay entry fees for tournaments or league play. These fees go toward organizing the matches and maintaining the fields.

If you own a horse and keep it at the club, you will pay monthly boarding fees in addition to membership dues. Boarding typically includes a stall, feed, water, and access to the practice fields. Some clubs charge extra for farrier services (horseshoe care) or veterinary care.

If you do not own a horse but want to play, you can sometimes lease or rent a horse from the club or from another member. Lease costs vary widely depending on the horse and how often you want to ride.

Getting started if you are new to polo

If you have never played polo before, the Houston Polo Club may offer beginner lessons or clinics. These teach you the basics of the sport, how to hold a mallet, how to hit the ball, and the rules of play. Lessons are usually taught by experienced players or coaches and may be included with membership or charged separately.

Many new members start by attending matches as spectators to understand how the game works and what the club is like. This is a low-pressure way to see whether polo interests you before you commit to playing. You can ask questions during or after matches and talk to members about their experience.

If you own a horse or have access to one, you can ask about taking private lessons at the club. This lets you learn at your own pace before joining a team or playing in matches. Some members also recommend starting with a non-playing membership and upgrading to playing membership once you feel ready.

The club's location and facilities

The Houston Polo Club is located in the Houston area, with its own polo fields, stables, and clubhouse. The exact address and directions are available on the club's website or by calling the main office. The facility is designed to accommodate both players and spectators, with seating areas, parking, and food and beverage options during matches.

The stables house member horses and provide daily care, including feeding, water, and turnout. The practice fields are available to members for training and lessons outside of match days. The clubhouse typically has a bar, dining area, and lounge where members gather before and after matches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to own a horse to join the Houston Polo Club?

No. Non-playing members can join to watch matches and attend events without owning a horse. If you want to play, you can lease or rent a horse from the club or another member, though owning your own horse is common among playing members.

What if I have never played polo before?

The club often offers lessons for beginners. You can start by watching matches to learn the sport, then take lessons before joining a team. Many new members begin with a non-playing membership and move to playing membership once they feel ready.

How much does membership cost?

Membership costs vary based on the level you choose and whether you board a horse at the club. Contact the club directly for current fees, as they change year to year. Most clubs charge both an initiation fee and annual dues.

Can I bring guests to watch matches?

Yes. Most clubs allow members to bring guests to matches and events. Some clubs also offer guest passes for people who want to attend a single match without joining. Call the club to ask about guest policies.

When is the polo season?

The Houston Polo Club's season typically runs from fall through spring, with matches held on weekends. The exact schedule varies each year. Check the club's website or call for the current season dates and match schedule.