A few simple rules ... limitless possibilities

The aim of getting Go as well known with the British public as chess is a long way off; but that is the direction in which we are aiming. We do this by talking to the press and radio and TV with the aim of encouraging coverage of Go and Go events, and by lobbying local and national politicians. The committee is always looking at new ways to get publicity.

We are also represented from time to time at appropriate exhibitions and fairs and we maintain an archive of books, magazines and publicity material for these purposes.

This exists to provide teaching and mentoring support to members who are trying to improve their game. The aim to us to raise the level of play of those who want to learn more about Go. This is done by providing game commentaries, mentoring services such as the Online Study Group, teaching interludes at tournaments, teaching events, correspondence courses, game analysis etc.

Ability levels are (fairly arbitrarily) divided into 5 ranges: beginner (up to 30ish kyu), novice (30ish to 20ish kyu), double figure kyus (20ish to 10 kyu), single figure kyus (9 to 1 kyu), and dans. The BGA aims to support player development at all of these levels.

This committee also monitors the ratings and grading system.

Some interesting Teaching Links are:

• Go Teachers List
• Online Study Group
• Introduction to Go
• Go Teaching Ladder

Tournaments are an essential part of the UK Go calendar, but nearly all are organised by autonomous Go clubs rather than by the BGA itself. The various British Championship and other British Championships, UK Go Challenge, British Open and the London Open are the main exceptions; being organised by, or on behalf of, the Association. The Tournaments Committee exists to promote and co-ordinate all tournaments, except those specifically designed for youths, which are covered by the Youth Committee.

Normally, we provide help and advice on the timing of tournaments and will list tournament details on the our web site. Association-owned equipment (boards, stones, clocks, draw program and computer) may be loaned for tournaments and a guide for tournament organisers is provided. See the job descriptions of the Tournament Co-ordinator and the Tournament Equipment Co-ordinator for more details. We also provide a results service which feeds into our Player Ratings List.

Online tournaments are now organised by the Association and are expected to grow in importance in the future.