Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
AT the age of seven, a young Minenhle Dube discovered the world of chess, guided by her father at home and that laid the foundation of what would become a remarkable journey.
At that time, the now 18-year old, was introduced to patience, critical thinking, and the value of thoughtful strategy.
That was critical.
As she grew up, she later joined her high school chess club, eager to challenge herself and refine her skills.
Last week, the Usher High School A-level student was part of the Matabeleland South team that competed at the National Association of Secondary School Heads (Nash) Chess Championships.
She finished fourth at the National Under-20 Girls’ Championship.
In an interview with Zimpapers Sports Hub, Dube shared her remarkable rise through the ranks as a young prodigy. Her journey through chess has taught her valuable life skills.
“I started playing chess with my father when I was seven. He taught me basic strategies and I fell in love with the game. Later I joined the chess club in high school. The journey has been amazing with ups and downs but it taught me patience and strategic thinking,” she said.
Despite missing a podium finish by just a single point, her performance at the nationals was a proud moment. It was a testament to the work she has been putting in and at the same time, a motivation to work harder and practice more than she has been doing.
“Before nationals, I practiced every afternoon after school and also practiced with other chess players who qualified for the nationals. We studied openings, middle game tactics and endgames. I analysed past games and worked with my coach to refine my skills.
“Finishing fourth was a bitter-sweet moment. I was proud of my progress but felt I could’ve done better. It motivated me to work harder for future tournaments,” said Dube.
It was no easy task at the nationals against the crème de la crème of school chess but Dube is pleased with how she managed to navigate high pressure situations. She said her semi-final encounter stood out as a testament to her resilience.
“One match that stood out was a comeback win in the semifinals. My opponent targeted my rooks forcing me to exchange them for their knight. Despite being in a tough position I managed to turn the game around with precise calculation and strategy ultimately securing the win,” Dube recalled.
Dube holds in high regard two men who have helped shape her to the player that she is today. Her father, who nurtured her love for the game from the onset and her coach, Brighton Duburo who has been a key figure in her growth as a player, helping hone her skills.
The two have become her greatest influences.
“My biggest influences in chess are my father and coach, Mr Duburo. My father taught me patience, strategic thinking and sportsmanship while Coach Duburo refined my skills, introduced advanced strategies and instilled discipline and focus. Both have been instrumental in my growth teaching me the value of hard work and perseverance,” she said.
The aspiring mathematician dreams of earning the grandmaster title, capturing national titles, and using her journey to inspire others, especially young minds discovering chess for the first time. Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills that come with chess will serve the young ace well in her mathematics future.
Dube has learnt the art of balancing both school and chess.
“My goals include becoming a grandmaster, winning national championships and using chess to inspire others. Beyond chess I aim to pursue a career in mathematics. Balancing chess with school and life requires discipline. I prioritise tasks, manage time effectively and make sure I take breaks to relax,” she said.
@brandon_malvin
