The South African Polo Association (SAPA) is the official administrative controlling body of polo in South Africa. All clubs affiliate through their provincial bodies to SAPA which, in turn, affiliates to Hurlingham Polo Association in the UK, and Federacion Internationale de Polo in Argentina.
SAPA consists of a President, Vice-President and Executive Committee which includes a representative from each Province. These members are elected by the affiliated members of SAPA at the AGM of the Association. SAPA has a constitution which was first formulated in 1905 making it one of the oldest sporting bodies in the country.
The role of SAPA is to administer the annual fixture lists, the handicaps of all players, any disciplinary matters, help coordinate development initiatives and to govern policy relating to all matters regarding polo and polo ponies. SAPA is a Section 21 non-profit organisation and assists its affiliated provinces and clubs with interest free loans for the benefit of its members.
On the South African Polo Association website, you’ll find the information you need to find a club, search for fixtures & events, handicaps, information on memberships, how and where to play polo, as well as all the necessary documents around rules, regulations and pony welfare.
Vision, Mission & Objectives
Increase the value proposition of polo in South Africa
Promote polo in South Africa
Increase visibility of the sport
Attract more players and spectators
Prioritise pony welfare within polo in South Africa
Attract more sponsorship
Improve quality of polo in South Africa
Increase association membership
Provide support to polo clinics
Develop professional umpiring
Develop more high goal players
Implement rules and guidelines for the sport of polo
To assist and provide financial support for polo players from previously disadvantaged communities
Become sustainable
Maintain financial sustainability
Manage profitable international and national events
Increase rand value of sponsorship and return on investment to sponsors
Provide support to SAPA structures
Become an international destination of choice
Become a top 5 polo destination nation
Develop infrastructure to support quality of the sport