Welcome to this week’s featured player:
Jack N.
Jack is in the 6th Grade. Let’s learn more about him!
When did you start playing Chess? Why?
I started playing chess in kindergarten. My Dad mentioned how much he enjoyed chess and I wanted to learn too! I got to start taking lessons from Zach when I was 5 and played in my first tournament when I was 6.
How old were you when you first beat your parent?
I first beat one of my parents when I was 6.
What is your most memorable game?
I got to play in the Colorado Class tournament when I was 11. My last game of that tournament was my most memorable game. I won the game in 23 moves. I had to win that game to tie for first place in the tournament! It was also the first tournament where I played against players of all ages.
What is your favorite piece? Why?
My favorite piece is the Queen since it is a rook and a bishop all in one piece.
Is your favorite part of the game opening, middle game, or endgame?
My favorite part of the game is the endgame.
Whats your favorite chess opening?
The Queens Gambit.
Are you more of an aggressive or defensive chess player? Explain.
I am more of an aggressive chess player. I like to pawn storm my opponent’s king side.
What is your favorite chess memory?
My favorite chess memory is when I won my first 1st place trophy in a chess tournament. It was a Chessmates/PSD tournament that was being held at CSU. I was in 2nd grade.
What is your goal for your chess in the next year or two years?
My goal is for my rating to be 1650 in the next two years.
What is your favorite chess book?
My favorite chess book is The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played by Irving Chernev. Coach Brad also has this book and we sometimes go over it on Saturdays during my lessons.
How do you think chess most helps you in day to day life?
Chess helps me to focus for longer periods of time. It also helps me to think through things.
What do you enjoy besides chess?
I enjoy playing football at recess, playing baseball, soccer and running. I also enjoy school and really like history and math. I like to play Board games like Risk, Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride with my family and friends.