When you think of Texas Tech, you might picture football games, engineering labs, or vibrant student life. But nestled just outside Lubbock, there’s something unique trotting into the spotlight — Texas Tech Polo. A club that brings together horse lovers, sports enthusiasts, and students seeking adventure, this isn’t just about swinging mallets. It’s about building confidence, creating community, and carrying on a tradition that’s been growing since 1982.
What Is the Texas Tech Polo Club?
Texas Tech Polo is a student-run organization that competes in intercollegiate polo matches at regional and national levels. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or have never been on a horse, this club welcomes everyone.
At its core, the mission is simple: to provide access to horsemanship and polo for all students, regardless of experience or financial background. The club supplies horses, equipment, and coaching. Students only need to bring their passion — and a willingness to learn.
A Brief History of the Club
Founded in 1982 by the legendary Clyde Waddell, the Texas Tech Polo Club started as a family dream and quickly became a student favorite. Waddell transformed his personal farm into a functional polo barn, where he trained students and built a community around the sport.
After Clyde’s passing in 2016, the future of the club felt uncertain. But in a pivotal move, Denny Yates — a dedicated polo supporter and parent of a Texas Tech student — acquired the club and helped preserve its mission.
Today, the polo barn remains not just a training facility but a living legacy.
Who Can Join the Texas Tech Polo Club?
The best part about Texas Tech Polo is that you don’t need to be an expert.
Many members join with zero riding experience. The club offers three free introductory lessons, allowing new members to “test the waters” before committing. After that, dues are affordable, and the club covers all major costs including horse care and equipment.
It’s inclusive. It’s empowering. And it’s a perfect opportunity for students who’ve always wanted to try something new but felt it was out of reach.
Training Programs and Lessons Offered
Learning to play polo might sound intimidating, but the club breaks it down step by step.
Students start with the basics of horsemanship — grooming, saddling, and bonding with the horses. Once they’re confident, they progress to polo fundamentals: handling the mallet, controlling speed, positioning, and teamwork.
Weekly practices, one-on-one coaching, and team drills help students grow quickly. Within months, many go from beginners to competitive players.
Meet the Teams: Men’s and Women’s Divisions
The club features both men’s and women’s teams, each competing in tournaments under the United States Polo Association (USPA).
Each year, teams from Texas Tech Polo participate in intercollegiate events across Texas and beyond. They’ve traveled to regionals, played in exhibition matches, and consistently represented the university on a national stage.
Some members, like Grayson Price, joined with a decade of experience. Others had never held a rein. What unites them is their love for the game and their dedication to growing as a team.
Notable Alumni and Achievements
Although the club hasn’t won a national championship since 2006, it’s produced several standout players.
Past alumni have gone on to:
Join professional polo circuits
Manage ranches and equine programs
Mentor younger players across the country
The real achievement, however, lies in how many students discover leadership, confidence, and lifelong friendships through the sport.
Club Facilities and Horses
The heart of Texas Tech Polo is the Texas Tech Polo Barn — a rustic yet modern facility with stables, a training field, and event space.
The barn holds a carefully selected herd of polo ponies. These horses are known for their speed, agility, and loyalty. Students learn not just how to ride but how to care for these animals — feeding, grooming, and building trust.
During events, the barn transforms into a hub of excitement. Bonfires, exhibition matches, music, and food bring the community together.
The Role of the New Ownership
When Denny Yates took over the facility, he didn’t just save it — he elevated it.
Yates modernized the barns, invested in better equipment, and helped recruit passionate coaches. Under his guidance, the club has gained stability and vision. His daughter Ashley Owens is also deeply involved, continuing the tradition of family-led support.
The Yates family’s involvement ensures that Texas Tech Polo isn’t just about games — it’s about growth, structure, and long-term success.
Events, Competitions, and National Exposure
Each fall, the club hosts a “Rush Event” to introduce new students to the sport. This includes live matches, meet-and-greets, and chances to ride or simply observe.
In spring, the teams gear up for regionals and nationals, competing with schools like Texas A&M and the University of Virginia. Even when they don’t win titles, the players walk away with experience, resilience, and pride in wearing red and black.
Exhibition games also allow casual players to showcase their skills without the pressure of competition.
How to Get Involved or Support the Club
There are three main ways to get involved with Texas Tech Polo:
Become a Member
Whether you’re a freshman or a grad student, you can join by signing up through TechConnect or attending an open event.
Volunteer or Attend Events
The club is always looking for help during matches and events — scorekeeping, setting up, or even photographing games.
Donate or Sponsor
Local businesses and alumni can support the club financially or by donating equipment, feed, or facilities.
Every bit of support goes toward maintaining horses, funding tournaments, and ensuring that polo remains accessible to all.
Why Texas Tech Polo Is More Than Just a Sport
For many students, Texas Tech Polo becomes more than just an extracurricular.
It’s a family. A lifestyle. A confidence-builder.
Whether it’s riding for the first time, bonding over tough practices, or traveling for matches, the experience shapes lives.
It teaches teamwork, commitment, and responsibility — all while offering the thrill of galloping down the field, mallet in hand, chasing victory and community in equal measure.
Final Word
Texas Tech Polo blends tradition with opportunity. It takes a luxury sport and makes it available to anyone with the heart to try. From seasoned players to complete beginners, it gives students a chance to grow — both on and off the field.
So if you’re at Texas Tech and looking for something unforgettable? Saddle up. The polo barn is waiting.
