#USA #Houston #Houston Polo Team #Joe Bob Lequerica #USPA Championship

Houston Interscholastic Polo Team Celebrates Remarkable Achievement

The Houston Interscholastic Open Polo Team has made history by clinching its fourth straight title at the USPA National Interscholastic Open Polo Championship. This year’s victory was a thrilling showdown against Battlefield Polo Club from Virginia, ending with a score of 11-7 at the prestigious Empire Polo Club located in Indio, California.

Led by captain Joe Bob Lequerica, a highly skilled junior in his fifth year with the team, the players demonstrated exceptional talent, strategic play, and unwavering camaraderie throughout the season. Joe Bob played a crucial role in the scoring, contributing to the team's impressive performance. Alongside him were teammates Judah Altic, Faris Hanna, and Asa Gangjee, all of whom made remarkable contributions that played a pivotal role in securing their victory.

Judah Altic, a sophomore with established skills from his fourth year on the team, expertly anchored Houston's defense. His strategic positioning and key interceptions limited their opponents’ scoring opportunities. Operating in the midfield, senior newcomer Faris Hanna made a substantial impact with his aggressive style of play, which created various scoring chances. Asa Gangjee, a junior with a track record of precision and composure, further enhanced the team's dynamic, underscoring their overall dominance on the field.

Head Coach Mark Prinsloo vividly attributed this victory to the relentless dedication of the players, emphasizing that their hard work and unity were instrumental in achieving this milestone. He remarked, "Joe Bob's leadership has been essential throughout the season, and every team member played a vital role in this fantastic accomplishment." In agreement, Assistant Coach Shane Rice added: “This achievement is a testament to our players' determination and the supportive community surrounding our team.”

A Legacy of Excellence

The Houston team’s four-year championship streak is a testament to their sustained excellence and reflects the strength of the region's equestrian community. The path to their latest victory was celebrated with an extravagant asado—a traditional barbecue fundraiser. Hosted by Troy Lequerica, Joe Bob's uncle, along with Tate Seward, the event not only aimed to raise funds for travel expenses but also served as an opportunity to celebrate the team's recent successes and the vibrant polo culture within Houston.

Coach Prinsloo noted the significant support from the Houston polo community, which has been instrumental in the players' development. He stated, "The asado event was a fantastic way to send the team off to the championship, surrounded by friends, family, and supporters who have contributed to this program’s success."

In a reflective moment, Team Captain Joe Bob Lequerica expressed pride about their achievement. "Winning four consecutive titles is truly an incredible milestone. This team feels like family, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. The hard work, camaraderie, and backing from our community have played vital roles in our success."

The successful returners from this year’s championship, including Joe Bob, Judah, and Asa, are poised for another competitive season, reinforcing the coaching staff's commitment to striving for a historic fifth consecutive title. The entire team remains focused and determined as they look ahead to continue the Houston legacy in interscholastic polo.

For updates and to connect with the team, follow their journey on Instagram!