The Hudson Valley offers a unique opportunity for teenagers interested in trying a less common sport: polo. Gardnertown Farms in Newburgh has been running a polo program for over 30 years, featuring both indoor and outdoor fields and multiple teams. Their Interscholastic program is designed for boys and girls in grades 7 through 12, welcoming beginners with no prior riding experience. Besides learning the game, participants also develop horsemanship skills, making it an appealing option for teens interested in horses.

Polo, one of the oldest team sports played on horseback, is often overlooked as a high school sport but has collegiate presence with some universities offering scholarships. While local college teams like Vassar’s have faded, others such as Cornell still participate. Gardnertown Polo encourages new players to join regardless of experience, providing a chance to explore this historic and exciting sport in the Hudson Valley community.