2013 WYCC : Comments from IM Hambleton
Some might have noticed the new look of Canadian Youth Team blog.
Here's some observations from IM Aman Hambleton :
"While I have been to the WYCC before as a player, this year was my first time as a coach for Team Canada. I have been pleasantly surprised so far by all the enthusiastic team members and helpful parents. The warm weather and beautiful scenery in Al Ain offer a relaxing atmosphere despite the intensity of the chess schedule! So far our boys and girls have done a fantastic job, with a special mention to Maili-Jade Ouellet (6/8) and Nameer Issani (6.5/8). Maili is representing us in the U12 girls section, and Nameer in the U8 boys. Each of them have climbed very close to the top of their groups and have a real chance to score a medal with good results to finish the tournament.
I host daily preparation sessions with all my students (11 of them!) from 9am - 3pm and then analysis sessions at night to review the games and identify the mistakes. By 12am everyone has paid me a visit at least twice that day. I am really surprised by the performance of all our players in this event, with several stars emerging that we did not expect. The younger generation U8-U12 has been full of superstars for both boys and girls, but a special mention needs to go to the girls on Team Canada for their great results so far.
The free day was probably used by most of the coaches as a small hibernation away from the long hours, but I was pleased to hear most players finding the energy to visit the Zoo, go Camel riding, or take a tour of Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The chess-related fun consisted of analyzing a King and pawn endgame for much more than an hour one night, playing Bughouse, and having cake on two nights so far! Andrew Peredun and I have also been hosting our analysis sessions close to one another which creates a nice team atmosphere when everyone is in the same room. Players are jumping in to offer suggestions to one another, find the winning move, etc. I'm really enjoying myself here in Al Ain and I particularly love the team spirit so far. Andrew Giblon has done a great job as Head of Delegation and there are too many other people to thank! Let's hope the chess continues to be as successful in the last 3 rounds."
For pictures and articles : http://2013wycc.blogspot.ca/