meet our instructors
Diego Florez, DVM
Diego Fernando Florez is a small animal veterinarian and carries a 1 goal handicap outdoor and 2 indoors. He grew up in Pereira, Colombia and he has played polo since 2008. He has traveled to Mexico, Argentina, Switzerland, Colombia, Canada and many polo clubs throughout United States playing and introducing new people to the sport creating and international community of polo players and horse lovers.
Diego Florez competes under Los Caballeros Polo team locally, regionally and internationally.
His motivation is to make people fall in love with polo and the horses enjoy his passion with each and every player.
EMILIO URREA KIRBY
Emilio Urrea Kirby
Emilio Urrea Kirby carries a 3-goal handicap is a third-generation polo player from Colombia.
His after-school activity growing up was “get home and ride,” he said. He would join his schoolmates and other local children to play polo and also participated in international kids' tournaments that led to him playing in India on a reciprocal trip. “The kids from India, were staying at a friend’s farm, and they invited us to play polo in their country,” he said.
Emilio’s grandfather and father played polo “My father was my main teacher,” he said. “I remember growing up with horses and later teaching kids and beginners how to play polo, focusing on the rules and how to play - as well as having fun.”
Emilio enjoyed the polo lifestyle as a player until back surgery was required at a point where “my stirrup [leathers] were different sizes.”
- he takes the opportunity to help. “I come from a teaching background, and you can’t always say what you are thinking when you are umpiring,” he said.
But as a former player he can apply his experience to the game. “When I was playing, I always believed that the game should be fair, but I also got frustrated sometimes. So, I understand the polo frustration and that is also very important. I can relate to the guys playing,” he said is is currently a certified USPA Umpire.
Emilio is here to assist you in achieving your polo goals. With years of experience, Emilio excels at identifying and enhancing your strengths and weaknesses, taking players from beginner to advanced levels. Schedule your lessons with Emilio at the ranch or in town. You have to join Scottsdale Polo Academy and its amazing members and horses. I've been so lucky to call this club home away from home and can't wait for the upcoming season!
Contact us at 480-201-4530 to book your session today.
