23-12-2011, 01:44 PM
Andy that would be perfect! This is what I dreamt of when I mentioned the online coaching a few months ago. I was thinking a list of coaches with a picture and a wee blurb stating - style of coaching, rates and a rating limit on students the coach will take on (I think 200 points is about right). You could also then add other things for example: general lectures or tournament overviews for the latest congress. I have no idea how difficult this would be to setup? I would love to see it though! The coaching is done through Skype and Playchess.
As for the debate I think Clement, Calum and Mike are correct. In my opinion it is highly logical to build up to the Euros. If the juniors are playing in a weekend congress we put them in the appropriate section, we do not fire them straight into the open. Finding opponents that are the same level to slightly stronger is a lot more beneficial than playing someone who is clearly stronger. If we can find tournaments that provide the same format as the Euros, we will be achieving all the advantages of sending a squad to the Euros plus the advantage of better games. Alex mentioned a case of someone losing morale; I have seen a large number of these myself also. With the online coaching initiative starting to roll I have no doubt that there will be a dramatic increase in strength anyway and that we will have to send more kids to the Euros as they are ready for it.
As for the debate I think Clement, Calum and Mike are correct. In my opinion it is highly logical to build up to the Euros. If the juniors are playing in a weekend congress we put them in the appropriate section, we do not fire them straight into the open. Finding opponents that are the same level to slightly stronger is a lot more beneficial than playing someone who is clearly stronger. If we can find tournaments that provide the same format as the Euros, we will be achieving all the advantages of sending a squad to the Euros plus the advantage of better games. Alex mentioned a case of someone losing morale; I have seen a large number of these myself also. With the online coaching initiative starting to roll I have no doubt that there will be a dramatic increase in strength anyway and that we will have to send more kids to the Euros as they are ready for it.