Franklin Polo Academy: Learn, Play, and Watch Polo in Williamson County, TN
Set against the backdrop of The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, Franklin Polo Academy (FPA) has become Middle Tennessee’s go-to destination for learning, playing, and watching arena polo. Since opening in 2016, FPA has built a reputation for making polo more accessible, inclusive, and fun for all ages. It offers seasonal lessons, competitive matches, interscholastic and adult programs, and public events that welcome the entire community.
Whether you’re interested in trying polo for the first time, attending a match, or simply learning more about the sport, here’s a closer look at Franklin Polo Academy.
Understanding Arena Polo
Polo is one of the oldest team sports in the world, dating back more than 2,000 years to Central Asia, where it started as a way for mounted warriors to train. Over time, it became popular among royalty in Persia and India. The version we know today was shaped in 19th-century India and eventually made its way to the United States, where official clubs and rules were established.
Two teams of four riders use long-handled mallets to hit a small ball through the opposing team’s goalposts—all while galloping on horseback. The game is divided into short periods called chukkers. It’s fast, strategic, and physically demanding, but also a lot of fun to play—and to watch.
At Franklin Polo Academy, the focus is on arena polo, which is a bit different from traditional outdoor field polo. Arena polo is played in a smaller, enclosed area about the size of a hockey rink. The walls keep the ball in play, making the game faster-paced and more spectator-friendly. It’s also easier to learn in this format, which is one reason FPA has attracted so many first-time riders and fans.
The Team Behind Franklin Polo Academy
Franklin Polo Academy is led by a knowledgeable and experienced team with deep roots in the sport of polo. Co-owner James Armstrong, originally from South Africa, has over 25 years of professional polo experience and has competed internationally. In addition to managing and playing for the Franklin-based Riverview Polo Team, Armstrong manages the Nashville Polo Club and is a founding member of the annual Chukkers for Charity fundraiser.
Steve Orthwein Jr., also a co-owner, is a third-generation polo player with national and international competition experience, including three appearances with the U.S. Polo Team in the FIP World Championships. He is a co-founder of Port Mayaca Polo Club in Florida and spends summers in Middle Tennessee playing and teaching polo.
Sammie Uys, FPA’s Event Coordinator and Marketing Manager, has been with the academy since its early days. A USPA-certified instructor, she brings a background in multiple equestrian disciplines and manages polo instruction, event planning, and marketing efforts.
Lisa and Joel Mooney round out the team. Lisa assists with event coordination and advertising, drawing on her background in hospitality. Joel, a local art teacher and former athletic director, serves as the announcer for FPA’s public matches.
All About the Polo Ponies
No polo match happens without the ponies, true athletes trained for speed, agility, and control. Historically, horses 58 inches (14.2 hands) or less were called ponies, but today “polo pony” refers broadly to horses specially trained for polo. Their endurance, athleticism, speed, courage, and calm temperament make them critical to the game’s outcome.
Polo ponies use specialized equipment, including two sets of reins, a unique polo saddle, and often a second girth for added safety. Their manes are shaved, and tails braided to prevent interference during matches. Skilled grooms behind the scenes provide essential daily care, keeping the horses in peak condition.
While polo ponies can be of various breeds, thoroughbred lineage is ideal due to their heart, speed, stamina, and agility. Many players describe their best mounts as courageous, confident, and instinctively connected to the game.
Polo Lessons in Franklin, TN
Franklin Polo Academy offers seasonal polo instruction for riders of all levels from May through October. Designed for those who want to experience the sport without needing their own horse or equipment, lessons are held in a supportive environment with experienced instructors and well-trained horses.
Beginners can start with an introductory group lesson, which includes time to get familiar with the horses and equipment, learn about safety, and practice basic riding and hitting skills. For young riders, the Junior Polo Lesson package is tailored for ages 10 to 14 and focuses on safety, grooming and tacking, riding drills, and an introduction to the rules and strategy of the game.
More experienced riders can take part in the Polo League Lesson Package, which focuses on game strategy, scrimmages, and coaching chukkers. Players interested in taking their skills to the next level can also schedule grass field “stick and ball” sessions for focused hitting practice in a more open space.
Even if you’re completely new to horses, Franklin Polo Academy makes it easy to try the sport.
Polo Matches at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm
Franklin Polo Academy’s home field is located at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, a 200-acre property in Franklin with deep roots in Tennessee’s equestrian history. Once a prominent Tennessee Walking Horse breeding operation, Harlinsdale was known for producing champions. Today, it operates as a public park managed by the City of Franklin, with open space, walking trails, a dog park, and preserved historic structures that reflect its past use.
The heart of the facility is the Tractor Supply Co. Arena, built in partnership with the City of Franklin and local supporters. The arena offers a layout that supports lessons, practices, and matches, along with accessible viewing areas for spectators.
Franklin Polo Academy hosts a full season of family-friendly public matches from late spring through fall at the Tractor Supply Co. Arena.
Matches, Special Events, and Community Impact
Each match at Franklin Polo Academy offers something special for guests—from community fundraisers to themed events that draw crowds from across the region. Signature events include matches like the Battle of the Bourbons and the International Cup, hosted annually in partnership with Friends of Franklin Parks. Proceeds from the International Cup are donated back to support local parks like Harlinsdale Farm. Many events also support local nonprofits, and some feature photo opportunities with the ponies.
General Admission and VIP Cabanas
Spectators don’t need to know anything about polo to enjoy the experience. Just find a spot along the grassy berms, bring a blanket or lawn chair, and take it all in. General Admission seating is informal and laid-back, with tickets sold on the day of the match and not available for pre-purchase. Children under 10 are admitted free, and concessions—including beer and wine—are available onsite through Friends of Franklin Parks, with proceeds helping to maintain and enhance Harlinsdale Farm for the community.
For a more elevated experience, VIP Cabanas offer reserved seating under a private tent, VIP parking, and access to a full-service bar. Guests can bring their own food (no outside alcohol), and many enjoy relaxing in the grass in front of their cabanas during the match. VIP Cabana guests are also invited to join the Trophy Presentation Ceremony in the Winner’s Circle after the match—a great opportunity to meet the players and snap some memorable photos.
What to Wear
While some associate polo with extravagant dress and elaborate hats, FPA encourages guests to dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes—especially flat-heeled options for walking on grass.
Safety
Spectators should be mindful of flying polo balls and keep a safe distance from the arena walls. Visitors who retrieve and return stray balls to the scoreboard tower will win a prize. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed and calm around horses. And while it may be tempting to visit the ponies, spectators should respect designated horse and trainer areas.
Sponsorship Opportunities at Franklin Polo Academy
Franklin Polo Academy offers a variety of sponsorship opportunities that allow businesses and individuals to support local arena polo while promoting their brand to a high-value audience. Sponsors can choose from several options—ranging from event naming rights to VIP cabana packages—each providing unique visibility during public matches at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm.
All sponsors receive recognition on Franklin Polo Academy’s website and event programs, and many packages include product display opportunities and exclusive photo opportunities in the Winner’s Circle. Sponsorships help support not only the polo season but also broader community programming and nonprofit fundraising hosted at FPA events.
Experience Arena Polo and Community at Franklin Polo Academy
Whether you’re swinging a mallet for the first time, cheering from the sidelines, or supporting through sponsorship, Franklin Polo Academy offers more than a sport—it’s a way to connect, enjoy the outdoors, and experience a unique part of Williamson County’s equestrian culture. With seasonal matches, expert instruction, and a strong community spirit, there’s a place for everyone to get involved at Franklin Polo Academy.
Explore More in Franklin and Williamson County
Looking for more local experiences and ways to enjoy Williamson County, Tennessee? Discover hidden gems, local hotspots, and community highlights in our guide, 20 Things to Do in Franklin and Williamson County, TN: Local Favorites and Unique Finds. If you’re inspired to stay in the saddle, don’t miss Horseback Riding in Williamson County: Shows, Trail Rides, Lessons, and Gear. For those interested in giving back or getting involved in the community, read Rooted in Love: 3 Incredible Williamson County Organizations that Support Women in Need.
