January 2, 2011

I have been a student of Michael Aigner for five years. Even though I am no longer taking lessons from him, he continues to inspire me with the confidence he instills his students in both the game of chess and real life.

I was a puny eighth grader (no offense to the middle schoolers out there) when Michael began teaching me. I had no opening repertoire, knew little about middle-game strategy and even less about endgame theory. I relied on cheap tricks to win my games and became easily frustrated and upset when I lost. Michael patiently worked with me. He methodically filled the void of understanding that hampered my enjoyment of the game. When I analyzed positions, possible moves oozed with a dynamic combination of strategies and its risk and reward. Throughout the following year, I had a fresh stride in my step when I attended tournaments. I starred my opponents down and bent their will to win games one after another. I jumped two rating classes after working with him for six months.

Michael Aigner has the unique gift to bring out the best in all his students. His students have gone on to win countless state championships, national championship, and even the U18 division at the World Youth Chess Championship in Greece. They improve at a breakneck pace and are some of the most feared competitors at local and international tournaments alike.

Although Michael Aigner is able to unleash the chess beast in his students, his true accomplishments are his life lessons that stay with us. I have become a more independent person by planning out my brunch and dinner meals at tournaments and traveling to events as far as Las Vegas without the assistance of my parents. Michael’s can-do attitude is infectious and gave me the support to found the Sun Chess Club, an organization that has given over $3000 to date.

Michael Aigner – you are truly an inspiration. You mean the world to your students and the chess community as whole. We are all here for you.

Best wishes for a quick recovery

Your former student and long-time friend,

Charles Sun