Learn to
play polo

Through out step-up program at the Sarasota Polo School, students begin with polo lessons in our enclosed arena, progress to arena chukkers and, when ready, move out onto the grass for Sunshine League chukkers – being coached the whole way by polo professionals and/or experienced polo instructors in a safe, encouraging environment. We have excellent polo instructors that partner with us.

Regardless of what your level of experience in polo is, polo lessons can be arranged to be tailored to your needs and fit your schedule. Our lessons are offered almost every day of the week, pending availability and interest.

Polo lessons are roughly 45-60 minutes long and include the rental of a polo pony, the use of real polo mallets and balls, as well as all of the tack necessary for your equine partner. You are welcome to bring your own polo equipment (helmet, boots, etc.), or you may borrow from the rental equipment at the Sarasota Polo School! We simply ask that each student arrive in long pants and closed-toed shoes for your safety, as well as bring an eagerness to learn this fabulous sport!

All first time students will be required to complete a waiver. Digital forms can be downloaded below. Completed forms can be submitted to Info@SarasotaPolo.com. Physical forms can also be signed on-site prior to the first lesson.

Inquiry Form
Adult Release Form
Minor Release Form

Meet the Instructors

Ashlie Osburg

Ashlie Osburg, 30, is an Illinois native and 12-year veteran of the sport of polo and is the owner, trainer, and director of the Sarasota Polo School lesson ponies. As the wife of polo professional Neil Osburg, Ashlie has a unique viewpoint and real world experience when it comes to both training polo ponies and educating people on the “Sport of Kings.” Ashlie’s string of talented mounts can cater to any level of polo player – from the first-time rider to the player interested in tournament-level polo. Her ponies can really do it all! As a dedicated instructor of the Sarasota Polo School, Ashlie utilizes her degrees in both Equine Science and Business Management to ensure the best experience for both her horses and riders.

Neil Osburg

Neil Osburg is a 2-Goal polo professional originally from Clearwater Beach, Florida. After traveling and playing professionally all across the United States, Neil is now a full-time Floridian living with his wife, Ashlie, on their farm in Myakka City. In addition to playing polo professionally, Neil also trains horses for top polo operations and players year-round.

Stuart Campbell

Stuart Campbell is a 4-Goal polo professional originally from South Africa, and is now based in the Sarasota Polo Club. Stuart started out show jumping, but has been playing and coaching polo in Sarasota for the last 25 years. Stuart has helped many players start from scratch, and has brought them on to play in competitive tournaments.

Scott Lancaster

Scott Lancaster has been teaching polo for more than 30 years. He is a USPA Honorary Certified Polo Instructor, and has started many polo players over the years – including intercollegiate champions, U.S. Open patrons, and more. He has worked with men, women, and children ranging in ages from 8 to 75.

Meet the Instructors

Ashlie Osburg

Ashlie Osburg, 30, is an Illinois native and 12-year veteran of the sport of polo and is the owner, trainer, and director of the Sarasota Polo School lesson ponies. As the wife of polo professional Neil Osburg, Ashlie has a unique viewpoint and real world experience when it comes to both training polo ponies and educating people on the “Sport of Kings.” Ashlie’s string of talented mounts can cater to any level of polo player – from the first-time rider to the player interested in tournament-level polo. Her ponies can really do it all! As a dedicated instructor of the Sarasota Polo School, Ashlie utilizes her degrees in both Equine Science and Business Management to ensure the best experience for both her horses and riders.

Neil Osburg

Neil Osburg is a 2-Goal polo professional originally from Clearwater Beach, Florida. After traveling and playing professionally all across the United States, Neil is now a full-time Floridian living with his wife, Ashlie, on their farm in Myakka City. In addition to playing polo professionally, Neil also trains horses for top polo operations and players year-round.

Stuart Campbell

Stuart Campbell is a 4-Goal polo professional originally from South Africa, and is now based in the Sarasota Polo Club. Stuart started out show jumping, but has been playing and coaching polo in Sarasota for the last 25 years. Stuart has helped many players start from scratch, and has brought them on to play in competitive tournaments.

Scott Lancaster

Scott Lancaster has been teaching polo for more than 30 years. He is a USPA Honorary Certified Polo Instructor, and has started many polo players over the years – including intercollegiate champions, U.S. Open patrons, and more. He has worked with men, women, and children ranging in ages from 8 to 75.

Reserve A Polo Demonstration

Want to learn more about the sport of polo from a polo professional? We are happy to arrange for a private professional polo demonstration before the start of the feature match you are planning to attend. The professional will come by you and your guests and educate you on the sport of polo, while on horseback! You can get up close and personal and learn key parts about the sport before the match even starts. This is a great add-on for group events.

Inquiry Form

Hitting Horses

Want to try polo without actually getting on a real horse? Check out our wooden hitting horses at halftime of any of the public polo matches for a chance to see what it’s like to hit a polo ball through the goal posts! Our staff will help you aboard our trusty wooden steeds, provide you with a real polo mallet to use, and set you up for success!