WHEN JEM Garcia entered the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) as a rookie back in Season 75, he was already ranked as an International Master (IM). Since then, he has emerged as an integral piece in the blue woodpushers’ roster, playing as the team’s Season 78 board one representative–the position where the strongest players usually compete–as well as serving as its team captain. Because of his immense skill and invaluable contributions to the team, his teammates have labeled him as the “King Eagle of chess.”
A master of his field
Chess Program Head Roland Perez estimates that Garcia produces around 70 to 80% of the team’s point tally—an acknowledgement of Garcia’s immense contributions to the team. The coach also adds that it is his ward’s focus and commitment to the sport that allows him to excel.
He goes on to say that Garcia is the team’s only “tournament player,” one who can maintain a high standard of performance throughout his matches—especially in their closing stages. And since UAAP matches last for approximately four hours, stamina, focus, and experience are some of the most critical skills in chess that Garcia has mastered.
As one of the few players ranked as an IM, the Ateneo High School alumnus is one of the most feared players in the competition; he explains that most of his opponents are merely looking to avoid defeat and are content with a draw. On the other hand, his team relies heavily on him to have a chance at winning, which increases the pressure and burden of responsibility on Garcia’s shoulders.
Looking back on his performances, however, Garcia has dealt with the pressure well. On top of earning Rookie of the Year honors, Garcia has remained undefeated in board one and has won gold throughout his first three playing seasons. Although Garcia registered two losses this Season 78–ending his undefeated streak in the UAAP–he still managed to walk away with a silver medal for his efforts.
Raising the pieces
Yet despite Garcia’s individual dominance, the UAAP chess tournament’s format is still team-based. In his four-year stint, the Blue Eagles have not gone above sixth place, which is perhaps the biggest reason Garcia missed out on the Most Valuable Player award.
On top of that, chess primarily remains an individual game, which is why Garcia can only do so much for his team. “Mahirap ituro ang chess. Hindi ko rin alam paano siya ituro (Chess is difficult to teach. I don’t know how to teach it).”
However, Garcia acknowledges that his responsibilities extend beyond the chessboard. As team captain, he shares that his role is “to guide his teammates to play better” while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of studying together as a team and providing moral support to his less experienced teammates.
With the conclusion of the Blue Eagles’ Season 78, Garcia’s tenure as the King Eagle of chess may be over, leaving the team with a big hole to fill. But with one more playing year in the UAAP still remaining, he still has some options to consider. Just like in a chess match, Jem Garcia has a difficult decision to make.
