Blake Fields ( Rancho Mirage, California)

Croquet Anthony Alexander was thrilled to sit down with Mr. Blake Fields. This young, incredible professional croquet player has become a name we’ve grown very familiar with since the early days of our start-up. We first came across Blake in an article that called him a croquet prodigy at just 11 years old. Seven years later, at 18, he’s still making waves in the sport—most notably as the 2024 WCF Golf Croquet World Champion.

As excited as we were to speak with Blake, we were just as curious to learn how an 18-year-old from Southern California first picked up a mallet.

Q: Blake, tell us about where you’re from and what it was like growing up there. 

I am from Rancho Mirage in Southern California. Growing up and living here is something I wouldn’t trade for anything. At first, it took time to adjust to the country club lifestyle and to living in a community with an older population rather than traditional neighborhoods filled with kids my age. But in hindsight, I see it as a blessing that God placed in my life, one that shaped who I am today. It was here that I discovered the game of Croquet—a sport I grew to love and develop a true passion for, something I may never have experienced if I hadn’t been in the right place at the right time. Being raised at Mission Hills Country Club gave me opportunities that left me with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons. I had the privilege of spending time with and learning from remarkable people—top doctors, attorneys, engineers, and even a rocket scientist—experiences most people my age would never have.

Q: What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

 Like many people, my childhood seemed to fly by, leaving me with only certain moments that stand out. Many of them revolve around Croquet, but others are just as meaningful. I remember the fun mornings and evenings spent in the pool, and the times I sat outside watching my sister, Bailey, swim or coach at the high school. I remember the drive I had to be the best swimmer—winning all-stars and earning the reputation as the fastest in town. And then there are the funny memories, like the Christmas tree that managed to shock everyone or the batch of peppermint bark that turned out completely inedible.

Q: Can you share the story of how Croquet first came into your life?

Croquet first entered my life when I was 7 years old. I was spending time with my grandpa at Mission Hills Country Club when I noticed a group of people dressed in white, striking balls across a bright green lawn with mallets. It was something I had never seen before, and I couldn’t help but be curious. For most of my life, I wasn’t the type to try new things or step outside my comfort zone. But in that moment, I took a chance—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, one that continues to shape my life today.

Q: If you could pass on one message or gift to the next generation of Croquet

players, what would it be?

If there’s one message I could pass down, it’s this: sometimes the water running down your face is sweat, and other times it’s tears. This game demands years of dedication and hard work—there are no overnight rewards. Some days you’ll feel unstoppable, like nothing can get in your way. Other days, you’ll feel like quitting, as if everything is falling apart. Some days you’re the bug, and some days you’re the windshield. But with desire, belief, and a clear plan, anything is possible.

You can keep up with Blake by following him on Instagram @blake.fields.croquet.