MiniBridge Tournament - November 20, 2013
The first 9 programs of Silicon Valley Youth (SiVY) Bridge are nearing the end of their first term offering lessons to aspiring players. Three of the programs recently held a MiniBridge tournament, giving the players a hint at what competitive play is like. Two San Jose Boys and Girls Clubs (Gardner and Levin) and Los Gatos' RJ Fisher Middle School squared off enjoying a six table tournament, snacks, pizza, and prizes.
The players were boys and girls ranging in age from 8 to 13 years old. Some have parents or grandparents who play bridge. Others didn't have a clue about the game until they started their classes. Take for example Jerrick Baltazar, age 13, and Anthony Hoang, age 12, from Levin. Neither of them knew anyone who played Bridge, but they love it now. Anthony said he likes winning - and also the secret code of bidding. Jerrick simply says "It's fun!"
AJ and Michael celebrate their win.
Then there's 10-year-old AJ De La Cerda, who also knows no one else who plays bridge, but does play poker at home with his family. His Dad Art is hoping AJ will teach him bridge. The proud Dad says "I'd rather he play bridge than take kids lunch money at Poker!" AJ says he loves figuring out which hand is better - and winning!
Clockwise from left: Josh, Amanda, Natlia and Avery
The winners of the tournament were one of our youngest pairs, 8-year-olds Josh and Natlia from Gardner. Other winners were KC and Cyrus from Fisher and AJ and Michael from Levin. Many others won prizes for 2nd place or as winners from their program. All reported having a great time.
Winners of the duplicate were Kevin Rosenberg, Monta Vista High School and Roger Gong, recent UC Berkeley Grad.
The mini bridge tournament was won by Jon Coleman, Mountain View High School, and Adrian Heath, Castro Elementary. They were awarded autographed copies of The Cardturner, donated by popular children's author (Holes) and bridge player, Louis Sachar.
Game Results
Our bridge games are American Contract Bridge League (ACBL) sanctioned awarding masterpoints (MP) to high scorers. ACBL membership is not required for our games but is strongly suggested. You can join online or at the Bridge Center on the night of an event. Adult membership is $28 for the first year and junior membership only $15 per year. Both include a monthly print magazine and registration of masterpoints (start earning towards becoming a Life Master!).