Saddles, Strategy, and the Spirit of Polo with Megan Judge

The Luminary Lens

Welcome to The Luminary Lens, where heart meets strategy and stories spark transformation. In this episode, host Rebecca Kaykas-Wolff speaks with Megan Judge—Owner of Central Coast Polo and Head Coach of Cal Poly Polo, one of the most successful collegiate programs in the U.S.

In this episode, Rebecca and Megan explore how polo goes far beyond horses and mallets—it becomes a training ground for life. Megan shares how she builds an open, development-focused culture that welcomes complete beginners and turns them into confident athletes. From the fundamentals of horsemanship to coaching philosophies that blend grit, adaptability, and community, Megan’s perspective offers lessons for leaders and learners alike.

In this episode:

• Coaching students with no prior polo or riding experience
• Why early exposure and family inclusion are essential to growing the sport
• Building a sustainable polo ecosystem: roles beyond players
• Horsemanship, safety, and how many horses it takes to compete
• The power of polo for leadership development and mental focus
• Women’s rising presence in the sport and the shifting demographics of play
• Why youth programs and instructor development are critical to polo’s future

If you believe sports can build character, community, and courage, this episode is for you.

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