Chess tournament held for youth at Mitchells Plain library

Significance for Game Development

Reggie Sinden, chairman of the Mitchells Plain Chess Club, noted that the large turnout is another sign of the growing popularity of chess in the area. He emphasized that libraries have become important partners in the development of the game, as the Mitchells Plain Chess Club is the only one in Mitchells Plain.

The tournament concluded the festive program of the Mitchells Plain Chess Club, held at the Town Centre library last week. Sinden, who has nearly fifty years of experience in chess, believes that the game offers much more than just trophies and medals. He stated that you cannot lose at chess because the game teaches discipline, patience, and problem-solving skills, helping young people realize their potential in society.

Preparation for Competitions

A coach from Rocklands, Chesherly Zister, reported that he regularly conducts training sessions in schools and libraries, teaching youth the basics before they participate in larger tournaments. He added that this tournament serves as good preparation, as they will later compete with libraries from all over the Western Cape and also participate in school tournaments.

Players' Experience and Learning

Basil Adams, head chess coach from the Rocklands library, explained that for him, this day was not only about results on the score sheet. Although many children play individually in different schools, this was the first time they competed together as one team. Adams noted that ups and downs in results are part of the learning process, and the most important thing is gaining experience playing in a real tournament setting, as the more they play, the better they become.

Despite having winners and losers, after the final games, no one showed particular desire to put away the chess pieces. Judging by the fullness of the venue, chess is quietly but surely advancing in Mitchells Plain, step by step.