BEFORE someone succeeds, there is always practice, and there is no checkmate without a strategy in mind. With a mix of intelligence, determination, and experience, chess players Michaela Rigo (II-BSP) and Bey Bederico (III-BSIT) share their routines and tactics on how to capture their opponent’s king. 

Inspirations to Aspirations

     When Rigo was a young girl, she was diagnosed with brain complications that disabled her from playing physical sports. With this, she discovered chess with the help of her grandfather who was a long-time kanto chess player. After months of improvement, she began to participate in clubs and tournaments. As for Bederico, he was inspired by his uncle who played chess for the Palarong Pambansa and National Collegiate Athletic Association  competitions. When Bederico started playing varsity chess, he received a scholarship that helped reduce his tuition costs. 

     Having family members who also have a knack for chess, they were influenced to continue their legacy of playing the sport. Indeed, their talent does come from the blood. 

Competition Warm-ups

     Like any other passionate player, Rigo and Bederico practice chess before competitions. Rigo plays chess every day, even if she has no tournaments. As long as she has free time, she is eager to put in her love for the sport. 

Bederico always practices with chess players who are stronger than he is, such as his coach. He hustles with different team members to improve his strategies. Before any competition, Bederico solves puzzles to enhance his tactics and reviews the games that he played during training. Additionally, he studies the openings that he would use for the competition he is participating in. 

Tips from the Pros 

     Chess can be both difficult and daunting, but not for these two. Bederico suggests studying the three segments of the chess game—opening, middle game, and endgame. “Study the principles of chess because it will be a great help in their game and play games with those who are stronger than them to further improve their chess skills,” he added.

     When asked about her strategy, Rigo said, “Ang best strategy ko is always look at the whole board and isipin mo yung mga possible moves and attacks ng opponent before you move your piece.” She explains that one mistake does not make you lose, and future moves can always make you bounce back. 

     Chess was always deemed as a mentally tiring sport, however Rigo and Bederico proved that it can also be enjoyable. They learned to love chess and with their hardwork and success, they were loved back. With practicing consistently, studying different strategies, and believing in yourself, you too can score a checkmate.