MAGiC stands for Monthly Age Group in Caissa and is a new initiative starting from September 2024. It is an age group event, open to all chess players - not only for Caissa students,

To play age group chess is an important part of a player's chess journey:
 

• For one, you are only once 7, 8 or 10 years old and the eligibility to compete, or simply experience it, has an expiry date.

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• ​In addition, it is by age group a youth player can aim for an official youth title and it is the leading way to determine which players can represent the Hong Kong Chess Federation, for example, in overseas FIDE championships, which are age category based. Playing against your peers in MAGiC can help a player understand the competition he or she will be facing in e.g., official HKCFL youth age group championships.

 

• Our MAGiC cycle is not designed as a training event and as the pool of players is Open, the chance to play against different players in one's age group is large. We therefore hold 4 legs, or stages, and we encourage to at least join 3. Each leg will have Top 3 winner trophies (or Top 6 if more than 20 participants).

 

• The points scored at the best 3 appearances will be added up for the Autumn Champion Title Trophy.

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QUESTION: What is the difference between MAGiC and EOM (End of Month)?

ANSWER:

• EOM is part of our training program for Caissa students only. MAGiC is Open.

• EOM events mimic a real competition very closely but are supervised by coaches who know the students - pointers will be given when observed, e.g., "don't forget to press your clock", "remember to develop minor pieces", "play slowly", "no talking" etc. MAGiC no advise will be given, players are on their own.

• EOM is level based grouping - since we know our students they are placed in groups of students with equal strength and it is possible a 7 years old will face a 10 years old player. MAGiC is not level based, but age based.

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QUESTION: Can we enroll for both?

ANSWER: Definitely. The events have different objectives and complement one another. A 6 years old might not win in the lowest level of EOM (Group D) but could be a prize winner in U7 category. For both events though, knowledge-wise the minimum should be solid Stepping Stones 2 or (more than) halfway Step 1. Knowledge is one thing, mental mindset readiness is another. Particularly for younger children who might be uncomfortable playing matches, the EOM would be the only option we recommend. When in doubt, our coaches are ready to advise!