The Polocrosse Association of South Australia wrapped up a successful week-long coaching clinic and carnival at the Yorke Peninsula Polocrosse Club grounds in Minlaton, culminating in a two-day event over the weekend, October 11-12.

The clinic was led by former Australian squad members Jess Bowman (Casterton, Victoria) and Monique Hoare, who now plays for Yorke Peninsula.

Fourteen riders took part, travelling from as far as Darwin, Naracoorte and Moorooduc on the other side of Melbourne.

The carnival featured two divisions, with six chukka teams competing in Division I and three in Division II.

A team from Howard Springs from the Northern Territory took out the Division I title, while a local Yorke Peninsula team claimed victory in Division II.

Div I: winners Suz Smith, Rob Wait, John Hentschke; runners-up United, Erin Hoare, Alexis Krieg, Monique Hoare; best no. 1 Rob Wait, best no. 2 P Liddiard, best no. 3 Monique Hoare; best horse Ren, ridden by Luke Liddiard, and Trouble, ridden by Rob Wait.

YP Polocrosse. YP rider Erin Hoare chases Karl Bauman, Howard Springs, NT. Sam Westley, Naracoorte, and Dennis race toward goal.
Photos: Yorke Peninsula Country Times

Div II: winners Mark Doran, Madi Flower, Daniel Featherstone; runners-up Hannah Seamer, Tracey Walton, Louise Hunter; best no. 1 Madi Fowler, best no. 2 Tracey Walton and Suz Smith, best no. 3 Hannah Seamer, best horse Diesel, ridden by Maddie Fowler.

Monique Hoare was awarded the Dave Prior Memorial Trophy for outstanding commitment to polocrosse.

The action doesn’t stop there, with the YP night series kicking off this Saturday at 6.30pm.

With a new canteen manager, fresh initiatives and a growing membership base, organisers are encouraging local horse riders and spectators to come and experience the fast-paced excitement of polocrosse.

YPPC president Luke Liddiard is available for more information on 0439 808 398.

The SA polocrosse season will officially start in Naracoorte on January 10.

See all the pictures in the issue.
This article appeared in Yorke Peninsula Country Times, 14 October 2025.