Interview with GM Evgeny Bareev

Why are you in the «R»-team?

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I could not decline the offer of Mr. Yazici to join the «R»-team. I think that passive criticism of ECU officials is not productive. If there is a real opportunity to improve the quality of work within the ECU, I must do my best to help accomplish it. We would like to improve the conditions for professional players participating in tournaments, organize a proper feedback exchange between the ECU and the ACP (Association of Chess Professionals), improve the calendar, create attractive conditions for young people from all European countries to study chess, and make these studies modern and interesting.

What do you see for children's chess development in Europe?

There are several paths one can follow for the mass development of chess among children, such as including chess in the school curriculum, providing classes in chess clubs, creating national and international chess academies. I keep my eye keenly on the countries where mass involvement of children is given special emphasis, and this draws my attention to the differences between the various formats. Without a doubt, it all depends on the overall level of development of chess in the country, the availability of qualified coaches and existence of professional organizers. In those countries where a good balance is found, scholastic chess develops faster. And, of course, it is in the power of those in charge of the ECU to help each country individually; to help with coaches, in the organization of academies and the creation and provision of teaching materials. It is time for the ECU actively to help both chess players and their federations.

To what extent are you willing to pursue the development of children chess in Europe?

Each Grandmaster was once a beginner. From what I have seen, most great chess players are happy to share their experiences with children, give simultaneous exhibitions and lectures, and make training videos. I myself have trained players of various levels and from different countries; for the last few years I have been Head of a chess school in Russia. I hope my experience will be of use in Europe, on the organizational side, as well as the practical. I have already received the preliminary agreement for assistance in the organization of chess life in Europe from a number of Grandmasters and I look to the future with optimism.

How is the Russian Chess Federation involved in the development of chess in Europe?

The Russian Chess Federation, together with modern-day Turkey, is an example of real devotion to chess. Recently, the RCF has made a tremendous contribution to the development of chess in Europe. In Russia such tournaments as the “Tal Memorial”, youth individual and team tournaments "Cup of V. Dvorkovich”, male and female stages of the “World Cup” are held regularly and frequently. Then there are FIDE events such as the World Blitz Championship, several Grand Prix tournaments for men and women, and let’s not forget several Olympiads, this year in Khanty-Mansiysk. In addition, dozens of Russian coaches are working all over Europe.

These days, the Russian Chess Federation is experiencing positive change: distance education for children is being developed, the calendar is being improved, the federation budget is being increased. The RCF is ready to share its experience and cooperate with all European countries on any chess matters.

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