Alana Benz was presented with the Polo Training Foundation’s (PTF) 2025 Intercollegiate Daniel J. Wallace, Jr. Female Player of the Year at the Museum of Polo and Hall Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony in Florida on February 13, 2026.
Alana Benz Photo credit to Alex Pacheco © 7ChukkerPolo
Alana, a 2025 University of Virginia graduate, was chosen for this illustrious award based on three main criteria: playing ability, contribution to the sport and sportsmanship. For the first time the Polo Training Foundation Awards were presented at the annual Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony adding a glamor to an already significant honor for these young players.
Alana played on the women’s varsity team at Virginia Polo for all four years she attended the University of Virginia and served as team captain her third and fourth years. She helped UVA capture two Division 1 National Championship titles, the first in 2022 as a first year and the second in 2024. The UVA women were in the finals all four years that Alana played. Known for her powerful swing, both back shots and forward, Alana was frequently the high scorer of collegiate games she played in.
Alana Benz on the way to victory in the 2024 Division 1 National Intercollegiate Championship final game. © Dan Addison
Alana graduated from the University of Virginia in 2025 and has relocated from Oahu to the East Coast to pursue polo. We eagerly anticipate seeing her shine!
Alana was joined by her grandmother Inez Benz, mother Ramona Benz, and father Jeffrey Benz at the awards ceremony. Photo by Alex Pacheco 7ChukkerPolo ©
Interscholastic Russell A. Sheldon Male Player of the Year: Joe Bob Lequerica, Houston
Intercollegiate Daniel J. Wallace, Jr. Female Player of the Year: Alana Benz, UVA
Interscholastic Lynn Thompson Female Player of the Year: Kylie Beard, Maryland
Intercollegiate Stephen A. Orthwein Male Player of the Year: Zak Coleman, Texas A&M
Photo by Alex Pacheco 7ChukkerPolo ©
Coach Lopez and Alana Benz with her award at the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame dinner.
Photo by Alex Pacheco 7ChukkerPolo ©