"help bot" wrote in message
ups.com...
On May 27, 10:54 am, Mike Murray wrote:

These "Russian imports" probably serve to improve
the level of play here in America. I know that on the
local level, they certainly gave a kick in the pants to
a few of our rather complacent masters, who otherwise
would have merely indulged themselves in blitz chess
instead of studying to get back in the hunt.

I think we all agree on the 'problem', if indeed it is a problem. And this
sort of discussion covers about half of it, the other side being why
American-born youngsters drop out of the game, or do not find sufficient
mentoring or other encouragement to stay in it.

Isn't this one subject on the SPICE agenda?

Cordially, Phil Inski


Unfortunately, there is a reverse effect on the strong
imported players; they gradually become accustomed
to our lower level of play, and their own game begins
to slide. Perhaps this does not apply to the top
players, to the pros, but it was evident at the local
level.

-- hep bot