16/05/2024
A Heartfelt Tribute to Our Beloved Chess Master: Nguyễn Phước Hạnh
In the intricate game of life, just as in the game of chess, there are pieces that guide, protect, and inspire. For countless students and chess enthusiasts who had the privilege of learning under his expansive influence, Coach Nguyễn Phước Hạnh was the Queen on the chessboard—versatile, strategic, and always moving forward to shield and empower. Today, as we gather our thoughts to honor this remarkable individual, my heart overflows with gratitude, respect, and a deep sense of responsibility to carry forward the legacy he so lovingly built.
I first heard about Coach Nguyễn Phước Hạnh through the whispered reverence of my seniors at the chess academy. “Sư phụ,” they called him—a term that, in its simplicity, carried a universe of respect, admiration, and affection. It was not just because of his unparalleled expertise in chess but because of his profound impact on every life he touched. As a young chess enthusiast, the stories of his dedication, his struggles, and his unyielding spirit were both humbling and inspiring.
Born in 1934, Coach Hạnh’s journey was a testament to resilience and passion. He learned the basics of chess during his time in the army, but it wasn’t until the reunification of Vietnam that he truly embarked on his path as an educator. Despite the challenges of post-war Vietnam, Coach Hạnh saw the potential in chess to shape minds, foster strategic thinking, and build character. He began teaching at primary schools in Bình Thạnh, where his love for the game and for his students led him to introduce chess as an extracurricular activity. It was a novel idea at the time, and implementing it was no small feat.
The early days were filled with obstacles. Chess sets were hard to come by, and books on the game were even rarer. Yet, driven by his unwavering commitment, Coach Hạnh scoured flea markets for chess sets and spent countless hours in the national library, poring over international chess magazines and copying game strategies by hand. His dedication knew no bounds, and soon, the small seeds he planted began to bear fruit. The students of Bình Thạnh, under his meticulous guidance, started to excel, not just in local tournaments but on national platforms as well.
I remember the first time I heard about the magnitude of Coach Hạnh’s contributions. His presence in the stories was both commanding and comforting. There was an air of quiet confidence about him, a steadiness that reassured even the most nervous novice. “Chess,” he told his students, “is not just about winning. It’s about understanding life. Every move you make on the board is a reflection of your mind, your patience, your perseverance.” These words have stayed with many, guiding not only their approach to chess but their approach to life itself.
Coach Hạnh’s teaching methods were revolutionary. He believed in holistic development—understanding the psychology behind each move, the importance of discipline, and the necessity of strategic foresight. His training sessions were rigorous, but he always infused them with a sense of purpose and fun. He encouraged his students to see beyond the 64 squares, to view each game as a story unfolding, with them as both the authors and protagonists.
The impact of his teachings extended far beyond the chessboard. Many of his students have gone on to achieve significant success in various fields, carrying with them the lessons of strategy, patience, and resilience that he so passionately imparted. The foundational skills and mindset instilled by Coach Hạnh have had a lasting impact, not just on their chess games but on their lives as a whole.
One of the most profound lessons learned from him was the value of humility. Despite his vast knowledge and numerous accolades, Coach Hạnh was always approachable, always willing to learn from others. “No one is ever too old or too wise to learn,” he would say. His life was a testament to this philosophy. Even in his later years, as he continued to mentor young players, he remained a student of the game, constantly evolving, always curious.
The legacy of Coach Hạnh is not just in the trophies won or the titles earned but in the countless lives he transformed. He built a community, a family of chess enthusiasts who continue to pass on his teachings and values. His dedication to the sport and to his students created a ripple effect, leading to the establishment of chess as a significant cultural and intellectual pursuit in Ho Chi Minh City and beyond.
As I reflect on the impact Coach Hạnh had on my community and the broader chess community, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude. He was not just a coach; he was a mentor, a guide, and a father figure to many. His belief in his students, even when they doubted themselves, gave them the strength to push through challenges and strive for excellence. Every time I sit down for a game of chess, I feel his presence, his wisdom guiding my moves.
Today, as we honor his memory, I am reminded of my responsibility to carry forward his legacy. To be a beacon of inspiration and support for the next generation of chess players, to instill in them the values of discipline, perseverance, and humility. It is a debt we can never fully repay, but one we are committed to honoring every day.
Coach Nguyễn Phước Hạnh may no longer be with us in body, but his spirit, his teachings, and his love for the game live on in each of us who had the privilege of being influenced by him. His life was a beautiful tapestry of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to his students and the game he loved so dearly.
In closing, I echo the sentiment of many who knew him: Thank you, Coach Hạnh, for everything. You have not only taught us how to play chess but how to navigate the complexities of life with grace, strategy, and resilience. Your legacy is immortal, etched in the hearts and minds of all who had the honor of knowing you. We will continue to move forward, one strategic step at a time, just as you taught us, forever grateful for the profound impact you had on our lives.
