Crossing the Atlantic from the Emerald Isle, Team Ireland arrives at Glen Farm on Saturday for one of the Newport International Polo Series’ most anticipated international contests. Bringing together familiar faces, first-time visitors and enough Irish charm to keep the sidelines entertained between chukkers, the visiting team carries a proud tradition of horsemanship—and, undoubtedly, a healthy appetite for friendly competition. As Team USA prepares to defend home turf, the afternoon promises a spirited meeting of American determination and Irish resolve. Following the final chukker, players and guests are invited to continue the festivities at Dillon’s Patio Bar, where the post-match analysis may become increasingly generous as the evening progresses.
David Stone Jr. — 1 Goal
A familiar face at Glen Farm, David Stone Jr. returns to Newport for the sixth time, which means he is now well beyond needing directions to the field. His previous appearances give Team Ireland valuable experience with Newport’s pace, atmosphere and occasionally unpredictable summer conditions. A dependable 1-goal player, Stone brings composure, consistency and the advantage of knowing exactly what awaits when the opening ball is thrown in.
James, Earl of Belfast — -2 Goals
Making his Newport debut, James, Earl of Belfast, began playing polo five years ago at Polo Wicklow. While his title may suggest a preference for grand estates and formal engagements, he appears equally comfortable trading ceremony for a helmet, mallet and a fast-moving polo pony. His first appearance at Glen Farm marks an exciting new chapter in his playing career—and gives Newport the rare opportunity to welcome an Earl who intends to do considerably more than observe from the sidelines.
Harrison Boyd — 0 Goals
Harrison Boyd also makes his first visit to Newport this Saturday. A 0-goal player based in Northern Ireland, Boyd brings emerging talent, competitive energy and the confidence required to make an international debut at Glen Farm. Unfamiliarity with the field may be his only disadvantage, though Team Ireland has presumably assured him that the goals are in roughly the same place as they are back home.
Siobhan Herbst — 1 Goal
Siobhan Herbst returns for an extraordinary 24th appearance in Newport, although her teammates insist she does not look a day over 21. By now, Herbst may qualify as both an international competitor and an unofficial Newport local. Her remarkable history with the Series gives Team Ireland a wealth of experience, composure and intimate knowledge of the Glen Farm field. With a 1-goal handicap and more Newport appearances than some guests have had summer weekends, she remains one of the most familiar and warmly welcomed players in this international rivalry.
Representing the rich equestrian heritage of the Emerald Isle, Team Ireland arrives with a compelling combination of experience, emerging talent and personality. From two players making their Newport debuts to a veteran returning for the 24th time, the roster reflects the camaraderie and sporting spirit that have long connected Irish polo with Newport. Team USA may hold the advantage of home turf, but Ireland brings history, horsemanship and enough charm to make neutrality among the crowd increasingly difficult.