Massive congratulations to Bexhill Junior Samuel Merchant who is now officially an England player!
Samuel was invited up to the England trials in Liverpool last weekend after achieving two half norms (strong performances) in national events this year.
The competition was incredibly tough, with most of the top ten players having ECF ratings of between 1700 – 1950! Samuel managed 3 wins and a draw, finishing on 3.5 from 6, just putting him in the top 10 and resulting in him being selected for the England squad.
Samuel was 6 years old when he told his parents that his long term goal was to play chess for England! It has taken him 5 years and a lot of hard work, but he has finally made it!
Massive thank you to everyone who has helped Samuel on his journey.
Well done, Samuel!