Medway safeguarding statement

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I am incredibly proud to announce that my son Dominik achieved 4th place in the Under-16 England Junior Championships! This is a huge accomplishment, especially considering he just turned 15. As a father, I am bursting with pride at his success and the effort he put into preparing for the tournament. 

This achievement is also a great source of pride for our club, Medway Chess Club. I believe this success will motivate him to continue working hard, as it’s entirely up to him how far he can go. I hope this is just the beginning of his journey to the top!  - Aram Swiatoskowski

Aram, (Dominik's father) finished a respectable with 3.5/6 in U1900 Fide. He unfortunately lost the last game in a winning position instead of 2nd he was 13th and with a performance rating of 1900

Lawrence is a highly valued club member and the academy coach at the club, he is employed as a  learning and support mentor, locally at Balfour Junior School Rochester.  He is an avid and quality chess player, who currently represents Medway in Kent club competitions. 

Lawrence can be seen coaching Oscar Dhinsa, our youngest member of the club (aged 5). Oscar is the youngest player in Kent's history, to compete in the summer quick play tournament.

He played in the Medway team against the Weald of Kent on board 4, he even secured a win, in one of his three games against an adult. 

Chess provides opportunities for friendship , outlet for competitive urges,  it is a game that can be played in every country in the world, and can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of age , gender , race or religion. 

We sat down with Lawrence  after his class for his thoughts about teaching children chess :

1) Lawrence what are the benefits of learning chess?

I feel that chess encourages children to think strategically. It promotes the awareness of planning ahead and planning actions based on their consequences. Chess makes you stop and think. The cognitive benefits of playing chess over a period of time are great!

2) Why do you enjoy teaching at the club?

I enjoy teaching at the club because I find coaching to be a rewarding process. When you see someone succeed, there is a sense that you helped them to get there. It is the same fulfilling feeling you get when you realise you helped someone overcome their challenges and mistakes.

3) What advise would you give aspiring young players?

You're already smarter than half the people you know, as soon as you begin to play. Never believe you are not good enough, you will learn and you will win.

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