Her Move Next 4 Recap

Season 1 | Her Move Next 4
Brooklyn Game Day Recap

BY CHLOE COHEN - THE CHAPIN SCHOOL - COACH & COLUMNIST

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Saturday, June 8, 2019 - Waiting for the first round to be announced, I watched as two elementary-school students stared intently at a chess board, tuning out the chatter and spirited camaraderie of the preparing coaches and players around them.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

I have attended many chess tournaments, but Her Move Next events are always different. From the format itself to the friendships formed, HMN is not a typical chess tournament. After holding three successful tournaments in Manhattan, Her Move Next has expanded.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

On June 8th 2019, the organization launched its inaugural Brooklyn event. Her Move Next felt it was important to try a new location, in order to reach new players. By holding the event at a different school, in a different borough, girls who may not have known about HMN, or not been willing to travel into Manhattan, were able to participate.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

If you are new to the Her Move Next format, players are broken into four teams; the Red team, Blue team, Green team, and Yellow team. Each girl competes for both team and individual prizes through HMN's unique quad format.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

After the two-dozen participants were welcomed by their teammates and coach, they found their seat in the playing hall. There were excited whispers and wide smiles as the girls readied themselves for their first match. This enthusiasm was present throughout the entirety of the event.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

"It's so inspiring to see the girls come back with proud smiles on their faces, whether they've won or lost," Her Move Next coach Sakura Laporte said.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Regardless of a game's result, each player analyzed with their coach. HMN matches tournament games with review - a unique pairing that encourages young girls to want to grow as chess thinkers, strategists, and players. The girls are able to work with more of a peer, as opposed to an adult who could be more intimidating.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

"It's a great experience for both the coaches and the girls," said Estelle Morden, one of the four coaches. "[Coaches] get a great experience passing on [their] knowledge, giving encouragement, and helping participants become better chess players."

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Her Move Next strives to have girls leave feeling welcomed, learned, and accomplished in the chess world, where women are often underrepresented. By expanding its presence in New York City, HMN hopes to reach more players, and engage them in the tactical and rewarding game of chess.

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

Photo courtesy of Neot Doron-Repa

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