From "pawn to king" is how Mfundo Masiya role at the TuksChess Club changed.

Last December, Masiya was on a mission to make the "right moves". He knew if he did it would help Tuks to win the USSA Tournament for a third consecutive time. The "Striped Team" did win.

The success led to Godfrey Kgatle (TuksChess administrator) making his bold move. He abdicated his position due to his work commitments. Masiya was appointed to be his successor at the beginning of the year.

The BA General student admits he has got "big shoes" to fill. Especially since there is a fourth USSA title to be won next year. 

"Luckily Godfrey has agreed to still help if the need should arise. It is comforting to know I have a sounding-board to assure that as the manager, I am on the right track."  

Masiya has definite ideas as to what can be done to promote chess as a sport at Tuks, but the Covid-19 pandemic meant everything was placed on hold. 

He is going to still play himself. His goal is to become a Candidate Master in chess. To do so will mean he needs to be on top of his game. Currently, Masiya is 46th on South Africa's Fide ratings with 1965 points which means he needs about another 300 points. 

"First, you need those half points, and that's where the endgame comes in. Know your pawn and your rook and pawn endgames cold," is how Masiya explains what needs to be done.

In layman's terms, it boils down to Masiya studying for hours learning from the best, so he can increase the pressure until his opponent collapses making mistakes game after game.

"I would need to know which pieces to exchange, and when, as to drain the power from my rival's position. It means using novel techniques and ideas to win the battle for the centre." 

According to Masiya, it is the multi-faceted aspects of chess that got him hooked.

"To be competitive, you have to have the same mindset as a mathematician. Playing chess is also a definite way to improve one's memory.

"What I like most is that I get to be creative. Sometimes I get to do things that no one else has done. Playing chess is a way in which I can express myself."