Making its South Florida 16-goal debut, Bientina (Valentino Carlotti, Santiago Llavallol, Federico Panzillo, Mariano Gonzalez Sr.) made a lasting impression as newcomers to the Wellington Polo Tour—capturing the Ylvisaker Cup and earning a coveted spot as one of four qualifying teams to compete for the NPC 16-Goal Championship at the National Polo Center (Wellington, Florida). Gonzalez Sr. reflects on the challenges of organizing a league at this level, the importance of team chemistry and the conditions that made Bientina’s Ylvisaker Cup victory possible.
How would you describe the 16-goal season in Wellington?
It was a very competitive season, with a lot of teams and extraordinary fields. We had the support of the National Polo Center, Valiente and several private fields. Overall, it was spectacular.
What are some of the challenges of organizing a 16-goal league in South Florida?
Organizing a 16-goal league in Wellington is very difficult, especially when it comes to field availability. I want to highlight the organization by Juan Olivera, who managed to make everything run smoothly. I also want to recognize the support from Port Mayaca [Polo Club in Okeechobee, Florida], which made its fields available to us.
Bientina celebrates its Ylvisaker Cup victory with friends and family.
What was the key to winning the Ylvisaker Cup?
The key was having a team that worked well together. Other teams already had rhythm; for us, it took a bit more time—we only found it during the second tournament. It’s hard to compete when other teams are already clicking, but for us, things came together quickly and that was a big advantage.
What is your view on the role of a coach for a polo team?
A coach is effective only if everyone on the team is willing to listen. All four players need to be on board—if not, then it doesn’t make much sense.
All photos courtesy of ©David Lominska.