Professional poker player Doug Polk has declared his intention to step away from his active responsibilities at The Lodge Card Club, one of Texas's largest poker venues, while maintaining his status as a part-owner.
In a recent announcement on X, Polk attributed his decision to increasing obligations towards his family and other business ventures. He stated, “With several other projects demanding more of my time, and my family continuing to grow, I’ve decided this is the right time to step back from my involvement with The Lodge so I can focus more fully on those priorities.”
Polk confirmed that he will retain his shareholder status but will no longer engage in the club's day-to-day operations. He expressed pride in having contributed to The Lodge's rise as a premier poker destination in Texas, crediting the success to a dedicated team and a passionate community.
Polk became a co-owner of The Lodge in 2022, joining fellow poker professionals Andrew Neeme and Brad Owen. His announcement comes in the wake of a turbulent period for The Lodge, which experienced significant operational challenges following a raid by Texas authorities in March related to alleged gambling offenses. This incident led to temporary closure and layoffs, as well as the postponement of a World Poker Tour event.
Despite stepping back, Polk remains optimistic about The Lodge's future. He expressed confidence in the current management and staff, stating, “I expect The Lodge will continue to thrive.” He concluded by thanking the club’s staff and members, emphasizing the importance of the relationships he built during his time there.