The United States Polo Association recently announced that Carlucho Arellano Jr. of Wellington has been selected as the association’s executive director of services.
Arellano earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Virginia, which enables him to effectively manage financial budgets. He comes to the USPA after having worked as a professional polo player and president of Capataz Polo for the past 16 years. His experience in hiring and managing employees, coaching and mentoring, combined with his extensive knowledge of the polo industry, were key factors considered when adding him to the executive team.
“I’m excited to have Carlucho join our team,” USPA CEO Bob Puetz said. “He brings with him a lifetime of polo experience, along with an in-depth knowledge of the culture of the sport. His understanding of the players, clubs and the inner workings of the association will be a great asset and addition to the leadership of the USPA.”
Arellano will serve the members and clubs of the association and oversee the responsibilities and staff of USPA Services. He will focus on facilitating improved external communication between the association and players, members and clubs, as well as assist with internal communication between the board, committees and staff. This will be achieved through oversight of handicaps, tournaments, club approvals and board meetings, along with communications and committee objectives.
Arellano has many achievements to his name as a polo player, ranging from intercollegiate to international titles. Some notable accomplishments include: Intercollegiate Player of the Year in 2000; University of Virginia Varsity Polo Team Captain and National Men’s Intercollegiate Championship finalist in 1998 and 2000; member of the U.S. Team for the Camacho Cup in 2009; Team USPA coach and mentor from 2015 to 2017; member of Villa del Lago Herbie Pennell Cup winning team in 2017; and Team USPA assistant coach in the XI FIP World Polo Championship in 2017.
“Joining the USPA staff when so much is happening for our sport and the success of our future players is most gratifying,” Arellano said. “This is an opportunity to give back to polo all that it has given to me. I look forward to working with my fellow players, the board, committees and staff to strengthen American polo.”
Founded in 1890, the USPA is the national governing body for the sport of polo. For more information, visit www.uspolo.org.
