PORTSMOUTH, RI | October 27, 2026 — A remarkable journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to the pinnacle of collegiate polo took center stage Friday evening, October 23, as Newport Polo partnered with FabNewport to welcome celebrated polo champion and author Kareem Rosser for a special community outreach event at Newport Polo’s Arena & Training Center in Portsmouth.
Against the backdrop of an autumn sunset, invited students and families from across Aquidneck Island gathered to hear Rosser’s extraordinary story of perseverance, opportunity, and the life-changing power of discovering an unexpected passion.
For Rosser, that discovery came at just eight years old, when he was introduced to horses through Work to Ride, a Philadelphia nonprofit that provides underserved youth with access to equestrian activities and polo. What began as an introduction to an unfamiliar sport became a pathway to education, personal growth, and national championship success.
Alongside his brother and teammates, Rosser helped make history as a member of the first all-Black team to win the National Interscholastic Polo Championship, capturing consecutive titles in 2011 and 2012. He later captained Colorado State University to the 2015 National Intercollegiate Championship, further establishing himself among the sport’s accomplished competitors.
Today, Rosser shares his experiences with audiences far beyond the polo field. His acclaimed memoir, Crossing the Line, chronicles his remarkable journey and the mentors, friendships, and opportunities that helped shape his future.
From Inspiration to Action
Following Rosser’s sunset welcome, the evening moved from storytelling to the arena, where young participants were invited to experience the sport firsthand.
Rosser joined Newport Polo Interscholastic Coach Minnie Keating and members of Newport’s varsity interscholastic polo team to lead an introductory youth clinic, offering students an engaging introduction to polo, horsemanship, and the teamwork at the heart of the game.
The hands-on experience brought Rosser’s message full circle: an introduction to horses, no matter how unexpected, can open doors to new interests, lasting friendships, personal confidence, and possibilities that extend well beyond the arena.
For Newport’s varsity players, the opportunity to help introduce younger students to the sport also reinforced the importance of mentorship and giving back to the community. View the album
A Partnership Rooted in Opportunity
The collaboration between Newport Polo and FabNewport reflects a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for young people through meaningful experiences, mentorship, and discovery. FabNewport was among Newport Polo Foundation’s 2026 gala beneficiaries.
By bringing together a nationally recognized polo champion, local student-athletes, and youth from across Aquidneck Island, the event offered an inspiring example of how community partnerships can introduce young people to experiences they might never otherwise encounter.
Rosser’s story carries a particularly powerful message: talent and ambition can flourish when young people are given the encouragement, resources, and opportunity to explore their potential.
As Newport Polo celebrates its 150th Diamond Jubilee as America’s First Polo Club, the gathering also underscored an important part of the Club’s legacy—connecting generations through the sport and helping introduce polo to new audiences.
The experience concluded with a renewed appreciation for the role that horses, sportsmanship, and mentorship can play in shaping young lives.
Newport Polo extends its heartfelt thanks to Kareem Rosser, FabNewport, its interscholastic players and coaches, fellow community partners including Hammetts Hotel and Island Books, and the families and students who made this memorable outreach program possible.
About Kareem Rosser
Kareem Rosser is a national championship polo player, author, and advocate for youth opportunity. Raised in West Philadelphia, he discovered polo through the nonprofit Work to Ride and went on to become a two-time National Interscholastic Polo Champion and a National Intercollegiate Champion with Colorado State University. He is the author of Crossing the Line and When You’re Ready.
About Newport Polo
Founded in 1876, Newport Polo is home to America’s First Polo Club and celebrates its 150th Diamond Jubilee in 2026. Based in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Newport Polo offers year-round opportunities for competitive polo, instruction, youth development, and community engagement, and hosts the renowned Newport International Polo Series at Glen Farm.
About FabNewport
FabNewport is a Newport County nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people through hands-on learning, creativity, mentorship, and access to opportunities that encourage exploration, confidence, and personal growth.