Arriving from the Steel City, Team Pittsburgh takes the field on Saturday for the 11th annual Vanderbilt-Carnegie Cup, one of Newport Polo’s most storied rivalries. Rooted in the industrial legacy that shaped modern America, Pittsburgh returns to Newport carrying the grit, pride, and competitive fire that have defined the region for generations. This match celebrates not merely competition between two cities, but the meeting of two distinct American traditions: the polish of coastal society and the steel-forged determination of industrial heartland. Following the final chukker, players and guests are invited to celebrate together at Dillon’s Patio Bar.
Jerome Kennedy
A recent import from Ireland and an “adopted Pittsburgher” since he enjoyed his first Primantis Sandwich and Iron City Beer, Jerome Kennedy grew up playing polo in Ireland and the UK before relocating to the US last September to work as a lawyer in New York. Outside of polo, Jerome enjoys rugby, horse racing, golf and scouting for the best pint of Guinness in New York City (the search continues).
Alex Burkland
Alex was born and raised in Pittsburgh and now resides in the Laurel Valley region of Western PA where his Woodmere Polo Team plays at Ligonier Polo Club. Alex started playing polo in 2020 during COVID and has quickly progressed to become a strong presence on the field, especially running to goal. Outside of polo, Alex loves to golf and is an accomplished wake boarder.
Justin Powers (Captain)
A third generation polo player and fourth generation horseman. The Powers family has been involved with polo in Western PA for over 80 years. Justin is the Executive Director of Polo Development for the United States Polo Association and still lives in the shadows of former Steel Mills in Beaver, PA with his Wife and two sons. Outside of polo he bleeds black and gold, loves golf and the occasional bet on a race horse.
Jim Deangelis
Jim found polo at the young age of 14 and continued to play during his youth, collegiately at Uconn, and throughout this adult life. Polo is a family affair for the Deangelis family where Jim’s kids and wife have joined him on the field countless times. His connection to Pittsburgh is through his wife, Julie, who has family from the region and Jim played against a number of Western PA players when his career took him to the Mid-States circuit.
Representing one of America’s most industrious cities, Pittsburgh arrives with a blend of European sophistication, emerging talent, enduring family legacy, and multi-generational commitment to the sport. Together, they carry forward the competitive spirit of a region built on hard work, pride, and determination—qualities that have defined both the Steel City and American polo itself. The Vanderbilt-Carnegie Cup awaits, and with it, another chapter in a rivalry that spans a decade of contested matches and memorable afternoons on Glen Farm.