This past Saturday, Newport Polo hosted one of the most exciting and high-scoring matches of its 34 year history as Newport took on their longtime regional rivals, Boston. With both teams battling through weeks of tournament competition in a field of 6 regional teams to earn their spot in this final showdown, the stage was set for a dramatic and action-packed contest. The match did not disappoint, ending in a thrilling 17–15 victory for Newport, with both teams trading goals in a back-and-forth clash that had the crowd on the edge of their picnic blankets.
The day was set against the spirited backdrop of the College Days theme, channeling campus camaraderie and preppy school pride. Guests arrived decked out in varsity-inspired looks, from rugby shirts and sweater vests to cheer skirts and blazers, fully embracing the nostalgic charm of Ivy League traditions. The tailgate spirit was alive and well, with chalets competing for the coveted Stella Artois Tailgate Contest. One standout group captured the win with their energetic “Game Day” signs, collegiate décor, and complete tailgate setup that brought major pep rally vibes to the sidelines.
On the field, Boston came out strong, with Amelia Calfisch putting the first goal on the board in the opening chukker. Newport’s Stuart Campbell quickly countered, but Boston’s Rulo Trotz followed with two strong goals to give Boston the early lead. Newport’s Sam Clemens responded with a pair of his own in the second chukker, and Brendan Tetreault added a final strike at the buzzer to keep the score tight heading into the third.
The third chukker saw the offensive pace continue, with Trotz adding another for Boston. Newport’s Clemens and Campbell each scored again, while Tetreault closed out the half with a beautiful goal to give Newport a slim lead. At halftime, the field transformed into a festive fan zone, with guests stomping divots, sipping on a “That’s So Preppy” cocktail crafted by The Cocktail Guru at Dillon’s patio bar, and sampling delicious fare from a top-tier lineup of vendors including Brie & Honey Charcuterie, Newport Chowder Co., Hometown Poke, LaCosta Lobster & Tacos, Cluck Truck chicken specials, JavaJai Coffee, and Ben & Jerry’s.
The second half opened with a quick strike from Boston’s Emerson Bruce, but Newport’s Campbell matched it with another of his own. Trotz added to his impressive tally with yet another goal, keeping Boston in the game. As the fifth chukker began, Campbell gave Newport the edge, and Trotz once again answered for Boston, but Newport surged with a critical 3-goal run that gave them the breathing room they needed. In the final chukker, both teams found the goal twice more, but the gap held, and Newport claimed the win in a hard-fought 17–15 contest.
The match was officiated by seasoned umpires Dan Keating and Nacho Lezica and began with a ceremonial coin toss performed by John Layton of Providence Business News, one of the day’s proud sponsors alongside Foxwoods Resort Casino, who presented the Newport vs. Boston Championship Trophy at the end of the match. This trophy has marked the regional rivalry between the two teams since 2011 and remains one of the most anticipated contests in the summer series.
One lucky guest took home the Veuve Clicquot door prize, a bottle of champagne to celebrate a fantastic summer evening of polo, while the après polo festivities carried on into the golden hour with great music, laughter, and scenic views from the field.
Don’t miss the next match in the series, happening Saturday, July 5, when USA takes on Italy, a perfect way to extend your 4th of July celebrations with stars, stripes, and spirited competition. Wear your red, white & blue and join us for another unforgettable match at Newport Polo.