Highlighting the Next Generation of Polo Stars
From March 19 to 22, the 2026 Division I National Intercollegiate Championship unfolded at the Prestonwood Polo & Country Club in Oak Point, Texas. This prestigious event, supported by U.S. Polo Assn., is the pinnacle of collegiate polo in the United States.
Speaking on the significance of the event, J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, stated, “The Division I National Intercollegiate Championship represents the future of the sport.”
Celebrating a decisive victory, the University of South Carolina – Aiken’s women’s team, featuring standout players Winifred Branscum, Madison Jordan, and Brianna Jordan, defeated Texas A&M with a score of 15-6. This triumph marked a significant achievement in the women’s championship.
On the men’s side, the University of North Texas clinched a narrow victory against Cornell University, ending the game with a close score of 15-13. The North Texas team included talented athletes Alec Felhaber, Niklaus Felhaber, Johann Felhaber, Mosiah Gravesande, and Sebastian Celis Guerrero.
Custom event t-shirts, provided by U.S. Polo Assn., honored the 50th Anniversary of the Division I Women’s NIC. Special-edition designs were given to all participants, along with player prizes and exclusive U.S. Polo Assn. Champions Caps for the winning teams, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
A vibrant championship ambiance was created with fan-friendly activities such as giveaways. The energy of the event was palpable as fans and players alike enjoyed the spirited competition and the vibrant setting.
Collegiate Partnership Program
U.S. Polo Assn. supports over 30 colleges and approximately 70 polo teams nationwide through its Collegiate Partnership Program. This initiative offers apparel, equipment, and financial backing to nurture future polo talents.
ESPN is set to feature the Division I Women’s and Men’s Finals on ‘Breakaway: Polo in College’, highlighting the sport’s growing appeal. Viewers are encouraged to check local listings for airtimes.
The Division I Women’s final saw USC-Aiken’s Madison Jordan and Winifred Branscum earning All-Star honors, alongside Texas A&M’s Josie Dorsey and Kelsey Bray from UVA. Among the men’s, Johann Felhaber of UNT, and Cornell’s Malachi Light and Benito Jarmillo were recognised as All-Stars.
The Best Playing Pony awards were given to ‘Fiscal’, played and owned by Winifred Branscum for the women’s championship, and ‘Zury’, owned by Texas A&M University, for the men’s.
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 7:50 pm
