Draft:Badulla District Chess Association

Badulla District Chess Association

The Badulla District Chess Association (BDCA) was established on February 7, 2024, marking a significant milestone for the chess community in the Badulla District, Sri Lanka. The association aims to promote and develop the game of chess in the region, bringing together enthusiasts and professionals to foster a robust chess culture.

Leadership

The BDCA is led by a distinguished team of chess professionals and enthusiasts:

   President: National Arbiter Mr. Duranga Senanayake
   Deputy President: Mrs. Kavitha Lakmini
   Vice President (Tournaments): Mr. Sadeeka Jayasekara
   Vice President (Arbiters): FIDE Arbiter Mr. Nisal Perera
   Vice President (Women's): Mrs. Chathu Ranaweera
   Vice President (Trainers): Arena International Master Dr. Padmasiri Kodithuwakku (notably, the first rated player in the Uva Province)
   Vice President (Media): Arena FIDE Master Mr. Induwara Weerarathna
   Honorary Secretary: Arena FIDE Master Mr. Kavindu Kodithuwakku
   Assistant Secretary: Ms. Charitha Arundathie
   Honorary Treasurer: Mr. Manoj Hettiarachchi

These individuals bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles, ensuring the growth and success of the BDCA.

Member Chess Clubs

The BDCA collaborates with several prominent chess clubs in the region, including:

   Uva Chess Club
   Queen's Gambit Chess Club
   Mind Plus Chess Club
   Thomian's Chess Club
   Board Battle Chess Club
   Josaphian's Chess Club
   Old Centralian's Chess Club
   Chathu's Chess Club
   Uva Wellassa University Chess Club

These clubs play a crucial role in nurturing young talent and organizing chess activities at the grassroots level.

Advisory Board

The BDCA benefits from the guidance and expertise of an esteemed Advisory Board comprising:

   Mr. Werochana Perera (International Arbiter and FIDE Instructor)
   Mr. Ranjith Dissanayake (Senior Chess Trainer in the Province)
   Mr. Thilak Jayasiri
   Mr. Anusha Chandrasekara

The Advisory Board provides strategic direction and support, ensuring that the association's initiatives align with its goals of promoting chess excellence in the Badulla District.

Key Projects

The BDCA has launched several key projects to promote chess in the region:

   Chess Introducing Program for Schools
       Concept by Arena International Master Dr. Padmasiri Kodithuwakku.
       Resulted in the introduction of about 300 new players in the Badulla District.

   Knowledge Sharing Workshop for Arbiters
       Concept by FIDE Arbiter Mr. Nisal Perera.
       Focuses on maintaining good tournament conditions and has resulted in 10 new arbiters joining in the Badulla District.

   Weekly Online Tournament for Players
       Concept by Arena FIDE Master Mr. Kavindu Kodithuwakku.
       Completely free, awarding E-certificates to the top three players to maintain competitiveness in the district.

   Coaching Camp for Uva Provincial Chess Team
       Concept by National Arbiter Mr. Duranga Senanayake.
       The first coaching program was conducted by Naditha Amarakoon, a top chess coach in Sri Lanka, an International Arbiter, and a FIDE Instructor with a rating of over 2000 Elo.

Vision and Goals

The establishment of the Badulla District Chess Association represents a concerted effort to enhance the profile of chess in the region. The association aims to:

   Promote Chess Education: Implement training programs and workshops to develop chess skills among players of all ages.
   Organize Tournaments: Conduct regular tournaments and competitions to provide players with opportunities to showcase their talents.
   Support Clubs: Collaborate with local chess clubs to strengthen the chess community and provide necessary resources and support.
   Encourage Participation: Increase participation in chess through outreach programs and community engagement initiatives.

Conclusion

The Badulla District Chess Association is poised to become a cornerstone of the chess community in Uva Province, Sri Lanka. With a dynamic leadership team, strong club partnerships, and the backing of experienced advisors, the BDCA is well-equipped to elevate the standard of chess in the region. The chess community eagerly anticipates the positive impact that the association will bring, fostering a vibrant and competitive chess environment.