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Indian coaches spark chess dreams in small nations
20 Sep
Summary
- Indian coaches guide Bhutan, St. Kitts, and Cayman Islands.
- Players migrate, requiring coaches to rebuild teams.
- Coaches face challenges funding and player uncertainty.
Indian chess coaches are actively developing the sport in nations with nascent chess programs. International Master Prathamesh Mokal, for instance, is coaching players in the Cayman Islands, having been recommended by Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi. He noted that while some players are new to formal coaching, they possess a strong fighting spirit.
Similarly, Fide arbiter Praful Zaveri is coaching the St. Kitts and Nevis teams. He initiated online sessions to prepare them for the Olympiad, focusing on improving their opening strategies. Despite the team's low ranking, individual players have shown remarkable progress, with one unrated player defeating a higher-rated opponent.
Another notable effort comes from a former Commonwealth champion who introduced organized chess to Bhutan. He helped establish a national federation and equipped players with standard equipment. Despite the recurring challenge of talented players leaving the country for economic reasons, he continues to nurture new talent and prepare teams for international events like the Fide Chess Olympiad.
