The National Senior Schools Arena Season came to an exciting conclusion on Sunday 6^th March 2005 at Inglesham Polo Club with Cheltenham College retaining their National title. Sixteen teams from around the country played in two divisions. The second division was closely fought by the teams involved with a high standard of play. This culminated in a thrilling final between Stowe and Marlborough, which Marlborough just managed to win3 – 2. In Division 1 the favourites were Cheltenham College because they were a 3 goal team. They came through a tough semi final with Rugby to meet Millfield who had beaten Eton in their semi final. Millfield played well but were beaten by the higher handicapped Cheltenham College who were very well mounted and well organised. The Most Promising Player of the Tournament was Iona Sinclair from Marlborough and the Most Valuable Player was Robbie Wilson from Cheltenham College.

We would like to thank the sponsors of the day – SATS and The Worshipful Company of Saddlers. Also Inglesham Polo Club for their hospitality.

Michael Chevis has taken many superb shots of the day – do have a look here.

At the same time as the National School teams were playing in the outdoor arena at Inglesham Polo club on Sunday 6^th March the novice players were having their own tournament in the Indoor Arena. The aim of this tournament is to introduce new players starting this season to tournament play. The teams were two a side and from a variety of schools. Jilly Emerson ensured the smooth running of the event with her slick time keeping and scoring. Dan Banks ensured that the play was fair (and that he kept fit ) by umpiring on foot and “cantering “ up and down to keep up with the play. The event is more about taking part so we hope that all the new players are raring to go next year in the main events. The top two teams this year were Wellington who beat Cheltenham College in the Final.

Participating Teams: Wellington,Cheltenham College, Rugby ,Shrewsbury and Heathfield.