In a moment that will echo through the halls of history and the hearts of future generations, the Atlanta BEST Academy Polo Team has galloped into greatness becoming the nation’s first all-Black high school polo team to compete in an official match. Their debut at the 8th Annual Atlanta Polo Party during the 2025 Soul Symphony Weekend was not just a game, it was a declaration.
With grit, grace, and groundbreaking spirit, these six trailblazers, Caleb Choice-Sanchez, Syncere Poole, Declan Fitzpatrick, Ryland Hammond, Mikel Banks, and Quinn Ramsey, secured a thrilling 4–3 victory over the Starr Creek Polo Club of Cumming, Georgia. Each player brought their own spark and shine to the field:
- 🏇 Caleb Choice-Sanchez: A strategic powerhouse whose calm under pressure helped anchor the team’s defense.
- 🏇 Syncere Poole: Known for his lightning-fast transitions and fearless pursuit of the ball.
- 🏇 Declan Fitzpatrick: A natural communicator, Declan’s leadership helped orchestrate key plays.
- 🏇 Ryland Hammond: The team’s quiet storm, Ryland’s precision shots kept the scoreboard ticking.
- 🏇 Mikel Banks: A rising star with unmatched agility and a knack for reading the field.
- 🏇 Quinn Ramsey: The heart of the team, Quinn’s tenacity and sportsmanship inspired teammates and spectators alike.
What makes this victory even more remarkable is that just two years ago, none of these young men had ever ridden a horse, let alone played polo. Their transformation from novices to champions is a testament to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and sheer determination.
This initiative was co-founded by celebrity fashion designer Miguel Wilson, whose Ride to the Olympics Foundation partnered with 100 Black Men of Atlanta and BEST Academy to make the dream a reality. Wilson’s foundation covers everything from training lessons to horse rentals, equipment, and uniforms—dismantling the socioeconomic barriers that have long kept Black youth from equestrian sports.
🗣️ “We are making history, and these young men are blazing a trail that we hope others will follow,” Wilson said. “It’s about more than just a game; it’s about leveling the playing field.”
The Soul Symphony Weekend drew a constellation of supporters, including Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, and celebrities like Egypt Sherrod, Mike Jackson, Dr. Heavenly Kimes, and Monyetta Shaw. Their presence underscored the cultural significance of this milestone.
Principal Robert Williams of BEST Academy praised the program’s impact: “The students have grown as leaders on campus and have really strived for excellence both on the field and off.”
💫 This isn’t just a win for Atlanta—it’s a win for equity, representation, and the limitless potential of young Black excellence. The Atlanta BEST Academy Polo Team didn’t just play the game—they changed it.
To these six pioneers: your saddles may rest, but your legacy rides on. 🖤🏇🏾 #PoloPioneers #BlackExcellence #BESTAcademyRidesHigh
