Hooves pounding, mallets swinging and plenty of cheers from the sidelines set the scene as the annual NTT BYD Polocrosse Tournament took place at Potch Polocrosse Club over the weekend.

The tournament, held from September 12 to 13 at Plot 85, Wilgeboom, brought together players of all ages and experience levels for a weekend celebrating one of the country’s most exciting horse sports.

From entry-level and junior players to experienced national competitors, the tournament showcased the depth of talent within the sport, with 16 teams taking part.

For Potch Polocrosse Club, the event was about far more than competition.

The club described itself as a welcoming family where friends, passion and dreams came together through a shared love of horse sports.

According to Rochelle Thornhill of Potch Polocrosse Club, the tournament provided an opportunity for people to experience the sport while enjoying the strong sense of community that came with it.

“Polocrosse is about bringing people together, from our youngest players to our more experienced national players. It is about competition, friendship, family and, most importantly, having fun with our horses,” Thornhill said.

The Potch Polocrosse Club regularly competes in tournaments and competitions across South Africa, with players gaining valuable experience at different levels of the sport.

This year’s tournament also celebrated the club’s partnership with NTT BYD Potchefstroom, which came on board as a proud partner and event sponsor.

Visitors had the opportunity to meet the NTT BYD Potchefstroom team, view the latest vehicles and enquire about test-drive opportunities during the weekend.

While the action on the field remained the main attraction, there was plenty happening off the field too.

The event was open to the public, with food vendors and a cash bar available, making it an ideal family outing for both seasoned polocrosse supporters and those who wanted to experience the sport for the first time.

Saturday evening brought a different kind of excitement, with a dinner and dance featuring live music, good food and plenty of entertainment.

Guests were encouraged to dress according to the Yellowstone theme, with prizes awarded for the best-dressed guests.

For Thornhill and the club, the weekend was ultimately about celebrating the sport and the people who made it possible.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supports our club. This tournament was our chance to celebrate the season with spectacular polocrosse, great company and a whole lot of gees,” Thornhill said.

With 16 teams competing across different categories and players ranging from beginners to national-level competitors, the tournament once again highlighted the passion and dedication that continue to drive polocrosse in Potchefstroom and beyond.

For those sitting on the sidelines, one thing was clear, polocrosse was not simply about horses, competition and scoring points.

It was about family, friendship, teamwork, passion and the unforgettable moments created when people came together for the love of the sport.