Rising Stars: Meet California Polo Club of San Fernando Valley

As a proud United States Polo Association (USPA) club, CPC has been a cornerstone of polo education in Los Angeles since 1995. We host the Pacific Coast Arena League (PCAL) tournament, as well as the prestigious US Arena Open Polo Championship multiple times, showcasing top arena polo teams from across the nation competing for a $100K prize. Additionally, CPC hosts tournaments supporting local charities such as Make-A-Wish, Children’s Hospital of LA, and the American Heart Association.

CPC offers polo lessons and gameplay six days a week, welcoming students and guests to engage in the sport and participate in our vibrant community events, like our popular summer cookouts. All matches are open and free to the public, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers and spectators.

Our lessons cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced players. With six professional instructors, we tailor private and group lessons to individual goals, focusing on riding skills, hitting techniques, and game strategy. Our mission is to develop safe, well-rounded riders who are passionate about polo.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As we reflect on our history, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges we’ve encountered along the way. The nature of polo, being a niche sport with often significant operational costs, requires a constant effort to maintain and grow our community. One of our biggest challenges has been balancing the need for accessibility with the financial demands of maintaining world-class facilities and providing top-notch instruction.

Running an independent polo club in an urban environment like Los Angeles comes with its unique challenges. Balancing accessibility with the financial demands of maintaining world-class facilities requires constant innovation. Despite the fluctuating interest in polo, our dedication to creating an inclusive environment has never wavered. We’ve worked tirelessly to make polo approachable, breaking down the misconception that it’s a sport only for the elite.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At CPC, our work revolves around a deep passion for horses and the sport of polo. From beginner lessons to advanced training, our goal is to make polo accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We take pride in hosting world-class events, such as the prestigious US Arena Open Polo Championship, which elevate the sport and bring our community together.
We are proud to be the largest arena polo club in the country, reflecting the strength and vibrancy of our community. Known for exceptional instruction and a safe, supportive learning environment, our professional instructors provide personalized coaching that develops technical skills, confidence, and a deep understanding of the game. We create well-rounded riders who appreciate the nuances of polo, from horsemanship to strategic play.

Hosting world-class events like the US Arena Open Polo Championship and local charity tournaments is another key aspect of our mission. These events showcase top-tier polo and offer our community the chance to witness and participate in the sport at its highest level.

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to inclusivity and community. We believe polo should be accessible to everyone, and we work hard to create a welcoming atmosphere for players of all backgrounds and skill levels. Our open-door policy, free-to-watch public matches, and regular social events make polo approachable and enjoyable for all.

Additionally, we blend traditional techniques with modern training methods to ensure the best possible instruction. Our emphasis on safety, sportsmanship, and a genuine love for the game defines the unique experience at the California Polo Club.

Ultimately, our mission goes beyond teaching polo – it’s about building a community, fostering a lifelong love for the sport, and sharing our passion with as many people as possible.

How do you think about happiness?  
What sets CPC apart is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community. Polo is more than a sport; it’s a way of life that brings us immense joy. The camaraderie, shared passion, and bonds formed among our members make CPC truly special. We strive to share this joy with as many people as possible, fostering a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can experience the thrill of polo.
Polo and horse care are at the core of everything we do. Whether playing, teaching, or hosting events, our passion for the sport drives us. The unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and deep connection with horses makes polo rewarding, and seeing our members develop skills and confidence is incredibly fulfilling.

Beyond the sport, what truly brings us happiness is the community we’ve built. Watching people from all walks of life come together, form friendships, and share a love for the game is something special. Hosting events and inviting the public to experience polo firsthand allows us to break down barriers and show that polo is for everyone. The joy of seeing new faces light up during their first match or lesson is indescribable.

In essence, polo is our way of life. It drives us daily and keeps us committed to the California Polo Club. We are eager to share the happiness we find in polo with as many people as possible.

Victoria Keon-Cohen

Lovive Laverdure

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