Do you have any pre-game rituals or habits, even small ones? “I always shake hands with my opponent before a match as a sign of respect.”
What’s your favorite part of the club atmosphere on a typical night? “The food! Ha!”
How would you describe the Eugene chess Club or its community to someone who’s never visited? “Inviting, challenging, and supportive.”
What’s a chess milestone you’re proud of, big or small? "I’ve won a few games of chess blindfolded."
What’s something outside of chess that influences how you play or think? “My faith in Jesus Christ is affected by and affects my passion and play style in chess. In chess we are responsible for our own moves and are forced to accept the consequences. I never lose hope in my position even if I’m down. Especially after a loss, we have the opportunity to learn and try again.”
If you could play a casual game with any player from history, who would it be and what would you want to learn from them? “Daniel Naroditsky: to say thank you for his free content. He helped me evolve my chess game. I’d like to learn about his discipline, decision making and how to set a plan.”