Dave and Sue Brookes became involved in Polocrosse in about 1991, through Rockwood Harriers Pony Club. Martin and Ellen saw the game at an information evening and wanted to give it a go! So like most things they went along with ponies and interest, and the rest is history.
Dave was elected as Chairman of UKPA in November 1999 and throughout the eight years feels the greatest development has been on two fronts, safety and the annual recognition of our squads. “During my Chairmanship, safety has been one of our top priorities. After Jason Webb started the ball rolling (excuse the pun ) a number of years ago when he identified problems with penning and field marking, the Executive has introduced safety lines, hi viz clothing for goal judges, compulsory energising of pens, better umpiring standards, paramedics, grid references etc.â€
Dave believes that the annual recognition of our squads cascades down to all levels, “I know some people don’t always think so, but in the early days we only chose a team to tour when an invitation came. These days we recognise all levels, from Novice to Open.â€
Not content with just running the UKPA, Dave was Chairman of Pony Club Polocrosse 1998-2003, and has recently been re-elected.
When asked what polocrosse needs to do to move forward, Dave feels the Exec and Membership must ‘clean up their act’, especially the way the game is presented to the outside world, “It is not difficult to pen and park prettily, plait tails and hog manes and attend prizegiving in club colours, whether receiving an award or not… look at the Aussies World Cup Photos, they even wear the same hats…â€. Other items on his wish list are recognising sponsor’s input and supporting them wherever possible, and remembering that smiles and thanks cost nothing!
Dave Brookes
Chairman UKPA
