NEWS

Florida stands as the epicenter of high-goal polo in the United States, with each season introducing fresh talent. This year, one of those names is Vance Miller III. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Miller’s journey to polo was unconventional – transitioning from college football to fully committing to polo. The teamwork and discipline he developed in football are qualities that have helped him transition to the polo field.

Most recently, Miller played a key role in Zapican BMW’s victory at the prestigious Joe Barry Memorial, a 16-goal tournament held at the National Polo Center (NPC) in Wellington, Florida. The win earned the team valuable points toward eligibility for the NPC 16-Goal Championship, culminating in the final on Sunday, April 13, at NPC. Playing alongside Nachi and Felipe Viana, as well as substitute Santiago Wulff, Miller contributed to a well-balanced lineup that proved to be a winning combination.

Miller continues his season in Florida, competing with Newport in the Regional President’s Cup at the International Polo School (Loxahatchee, Florida). Focused on growth and success, he remains dedicated to gaining experience and developing his game at one of the most competitive polo hubs in the world.

Congratulations on winning the Joe Barry Memorial, Vance! What does this victory mean to you?
“The Joe Barry Memorial is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the United States and it was an honor to have the opportunity to play in it. It was my first experience in medium- to high-goal polo and I loved every minute of it.”

The final was held at the National Polo Center—what was it like to compete and win at such an iconic venue?
“NPC is the peak of polo in the United States with all of the best players and horses in the world competing. That combined with the historic past of the field makes it every player's dream to play on it.”

You played college football—how has that experience helped you in polo?
“American football taught me to be coachable and to work as a team. In football 11 men must come together as one unit with hundreds of different play calls. The physical nature of football helps me in my polo role as a number two.”

Why did you ultimately choose polo over football? Do you still play?
“Polo is the greatest sport in the world. Football is fun but nothing compares to running 30 mph on a horse like you are part of a military calvary on a 18th-century battlefield.”

Did you grow up in a polo family? How and where did you first get involved in the sport?
"My father was a 2-goal patron and founded Prestonwood Polo Club in Dallas, Texas. I grew up playing at our club and eventually became a four-time interscholastic and intercollegiate champion."

How did the opportunity to play with Zapican BMW come about?
“My brother [Vaughn Miller Jr.] and I have been working alongside the Vianas for four years now, and Felipe organized this wonderful team.”

You played alongside Nachi and Felipe Viana—what was it like teaming up with them?
“Nachi is a budding superstar on his way to 10 goals and Felipe is a genius tactician of the game of polo. They are a dynamic duo together, that was a pleasure to join.”

What are your goals for the rest of the season? Will you continue playing in Wellington, and what does the rest of your 2025 schedule look like?
“I hope to keep growing in polo and keep playing as much as I can. Wellington has all the best polo, from the 22 to the 16 goal, even just watching polo here makes you better. After Florida, we go back to Dallas where we play 8 goal in the DFW Polo Association.”

Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals in polo?
“To play high-level polo, build a great string of horses and be a good addition to the polo community.”

All photos courtesy of ©David Lominska.