The Paradox of Multiple Chess Coaches: A Reflection on Indian Chess Post-COVID

In recent years, Indian chess has witnessed a significant transformation, both in terms of the number of young talents emerging and the approach to coaching. A thought-provoking Facebook post(Link at the bottom) by GM RB Ramesh, a renowned chess coach and grandmaster, has sparked a conversation about the evolving landscape of chess coaching in India.

In this blog, we will try to understand the intriguing trend of having multiple coaches for one player, exploring the potential benefits and drawbacks associated with this shift in chess culture.

The Evolution of Chess Coaching

Traditionally, the world of chess coaching followed a simple model: one player, one coach. However, as GM Ramesh points out, the post-COVID era has witnessed a paradigm shift.

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Many parents now believe that the more coaches their child has, the faster they will become a chess prodigy. This belief stems from the assumption that extensive coaching accelerates learning.

The Pitfalls of Overcoaching

While the idea of multiple coaches may seem enticing, it raises questions about the unintended consequences. GM Ramesh offers a crucial perspective on this matter, highlighting the potential risks of overcoaching.

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He suggests that children subjected to an overdose of coaching may quickly lose confidence in their abilities. The message they receive from both parents and coaches is a lack of confidence in the child's capacity for self-improvement through independent work.

The Broken Spine of Self-Confidence

GM Ramesh vividly describes this phenomenon as the "Spine" of self-confidence in children. It's essential to recognize that self-confidence is a cornerstone of success in chess and any other endeavor.

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Overcoaching can erode this self-belief, leading to burnout, stress, and a loss of passion for the game.

The Real Key to Effective Coaching

The heart of GM Ramesh's message lies in the understanding that coaching is effective only when a child possesses a genuine passion for the game and is willing to invest the effort needed for long-term self-improvement.

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Simply accumulating coaches and constantly changing chess openings is not the solution.

Looking Inward for Improvement

GM Ramesh's wisdom urges us to reflect on our approach to chess coaching. Instead of seeking external solutions, he advocates looking inward, focusing on nurturing a child's love for the game and helping them develop the determination to improve on their own.

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A harmonious balance between coaching and self-driven growth is the key to producing true chess champions.

In this era of rapid changes in the chess world, GM Ramesh's words serve as a valuable reminder that sometimes, less is more, and that the most critical changes occur within ourselves and our young chess prodigies.

Let's encourage a chess culture that not only produces champions but also fosters confident, passionate individuals who can navigate the complexities of life beyond the chessboard.

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