James “Monty” Waterbury

Few players had a shorter yet more illustrious career than James Montaudevert “Monty” Waterbury Jr. A 10-goaler, he was a member of the legendary team – The Big Four – which in 1909 turned the tide of international polo in favor of the United States. Always composed and in perfect control of himself, his pony and his mallet, “Monty” used his insightful mind and finesse, not brawn, to excel. Playing at the number one and two positions, often playing with his brother Larry, his ball passing was renowned. He held the distinction in his day of being the best scorer the game had ever seen.

Before his death in 1920 at age 45, he won the Westchester Cup five times, the very first U.S. Open Championship, and ten Senior titles. In 1922, the first match was played for the Monty Waterbury Cup, named in his honor.