23/06/2026
Muchisimas Felicidades Miranda!!! Enhorabuena!!👏👏♟️♟️♟️♟️
Miranda Quezada: Player of the Week from Region 8!
At this year's regional tournament, Miranda distinguished herself as the top-performing female player in the Middle School division.
US Chess profile: https://ratings.uschess.org/player/16862451
Q&A:
1. Your Name and City
Miranda Quezada from Harlingen
2. Tell us your grade and the school or program you represent.
I'm in 8th grade, and I represent Memorial Middle School.
3. How did you first get into chess?
Mr. Sanchez from my elementary school was my first ever coach, and he introduced me to chess when I was in kindergarten. He was so patient with me, even after I got checkmated so fast.
4. What do you enjoy most about chess?
I enjoy meeting new people from around the world and being able to learn what they can bring to the game of chess. I'm excited to be in this community and be able to one day teach the future generations of chess players.
5. What is your proudest chess moment so far?
I remember one game, my position was terrible, and I was down a queen. I was upset and wanted to give up because I felt in that moment that I had already lost. I stuck to it and came back to checkmate my opponent later on. That's when I realized chess is never certain, and you have to keep going even if you do lose.
6. What part of your chess game are you working on right now?
I have terrible time management at the moment so that's my top priority. I just overanalyze things too much and lose out on time. I'm also working on my openings and endgames.
7. Do you have a favorite chess piece or tactic?
I know people would say it's cliché, but Pawns are the best pieces. Honestly, who doesn't like the idea of having eight potential queens on the board?
8. Who inspires you in chess?
My parents are a big inspiration to me. They really have no idea how to play chess at all and they always get confused on what the pieces do or don't do. They still push me to do my best and are always there ready to take me to a tournament near or far. They could be working or doing other things but there always there right with me.
9. What goals do you have for this season?
Honestly, I want to hit 1800. I also want to be able to beat some top players in Nationals.
10. How has being part of Texas chess impacted you?
Chess has given me the opportunity to meet amazing players and teachers. I've gotten to visit a lot of interesting places as well. It's pushed me to keep improving and learning. Chess has such an amazing community.
11. What advice would you give newer players?
Take your time and don't give up. It may not be easy, but you'll definitely get there.
12. How do you contribute to the chess community?
I love working with kids and getting the next generation ready for the future. I see myself in the future as a chess coach, getting kids excited and happy to be able to play chess.
13. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I'd like to give a shout-out to all the coaches who helped me with my journey, who were Mr. Sanchez, Mr. Gonzalez, Mr. Salinas, and Alberto Pierce, for supporting me and helping me to get to this level.
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TCA is accepting nominations for player of the week. Please fill out the Google form if you have a Texas player you would like to nominate. The player must be a TCA member.
https://forms.gle/8YK5JEKdCMpVp4TNA
