One of the youngest and most dynamic teams competing in the Gauntlet of Polo, M A G (Santino Magrini, Ignacio ‘Nachi’ Viana, Kristos ‘Keko’ Magrini, Santiago ‘Santi’ Toccalino) enters the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Polo Championship carrying an undefeated 3-0 record. Featuring a mid-season name change from Shack Attack, M A G’s lineup and unified style of play has remained consistent throughout the tournament.
Accumulating 111 goals in nine games played, M A G’s veteran captain Toccalino leads the team in goals with 52, followed by Keko Magrini at 30. The younger of M A G’s Magrini brothers, Keko continues his rise as one of polo’s most impressive offensive talents shooting 59% inside 60 yards. Relying on their number four at the line, Toccalino has contributed 32 of M A G’s 42 conversions with 76% accuracy. Featuring three players under the age of twenty-five, a balanced effort between them is evident in their ability to generate plays with Keko earning 44 of M A G’s throw-ins followed by Viana with 21, and Santino at 14.
Showing their ability to close-out close games, two of M A G’s three bracket matches in the U.S. Open Polo Championship have been determined by two goals or less. Averaging 4.4 goals per game throughout the tournament, the defensive power and playmaking of Santino and Viana are complimented by the offensive explosiveness of Keko and Toccalino. Backed with formidable horsepower, Keko has been awarded two Best Playing Pony ribbons in the U.S. Open Polo Championship for “Don Ercole Patraña” and “Caña Fly.” A complimentary blend of youthfulness and experience, M A G prepares for the stretch drive with the determination and skill to go the distance.
Photo Credit: David Lominska