It seems to me that competitor analysis will show us the way forward. Measure ourselves, measure the competitor, find the gap and undertake the training. Set realistic goals, milestones. But is it really so simple? If it is then why haven't we done it?
Let me try to explain here. When we do competitor analysis, we meet our fears, our self delusions. Suddenly everything else seems more important than the training. Excuses galore. We want the cheap answers. The gap measures the work yet to be done and it can be daunting. So they need to be shown how to win. Realistic steps and the right mindset.
Let me ask a few question here. What do you think happens to our kids if we keep sending them out without realistic expectations, without proper training? What happens to them over time? What happens to their self esteem if we keep hammering them and putting them down? Have you ever walked a mile in their shoes? And if you have, are you still trying to move forward? Do you still remember what it was like when your dreams were still alive?
Competitor analysis is a frightening experience and it is a long journey to that GM. Do you think the kids will need their fighting spirit intact? Will they need that passion to fuel their challenges to adversities in front of them and further ahead?
Keep the fighting spirit and the technical will come. Kill off the fighting spirit and no amount of technical will help.
I will answer questions at our Thematic this weekend if you have any. See you at Jax's.
I propose to train under good trainer rather than keep on playing thematic without coach guideline. Chess is not only opening phase.. Even lee chong wei or nicol need a coach..
ReplyDeleteThe thematic is not for everyone. You will notice that it is for NR 1500 and above. That is around the National Junior level so they will already have had training. The thematics are meant for them to experiment and to stress test their openings. I hope this clarifies.
ReplyDeleteA further note. At the lower levels, you need classroom type lessons, openings, tactics, end games etc. This is the job of trainers. But as you move higher you need coaches who teach you about the winning mindset, tournament strategy, how to evaluate opponents and choose the right weapons etc etc in order to win in big tournaments. The thematics are meant for those players. To help them to the next level.
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