Bridge is not all about the cards.
When I attended Phoenix College in the early/mid 1960s, I used to spend quite a bit of time playing chess instead of going to class. Chess was fun; but, it’s an individual undertaking. Not much socializing goes on. In a tournament, you sit and stare at those 64 squares for four hours before you get a break. Sure, I won a few trophies and purses in the 1970s, but I did not meet many people.
Eventually (at ASU) I took up bridge. I meet way more people. Bridge is a partnership game. Sure, bridge demands knowledge and skill (as does chess) — but you always need a partner (or two or three). Bridge is about playing cards … but it’s not only about playing the cards well. You need to establish and nurture partner(s). You have to swing and sway, zig and zag, dance together as you play. Chess requires no teamwork; bridge does.
Creating and sustaining great partnerships entails effort. About three books on the market encourage you to sit down with each of your partners and work through a long checklist of conventions and understandings. Together you need to discuss what is forcing, what is not, what bids show shapes.
A couple of books discuss the non-card-playing aspects of finding, evaluating and selecting partners. Identify your needs and priorities. Spot the characteristics in potential partners that will be “deal breakers.” As you acquire useful partnership skills, your scores should improve and your enjoyment soar.
Forming teams of four is even more important. If you have a NLM team of four or more, and want my help, just let me know. I will work with you on hunting down the big pay-offs at the next tournament. Above all …
Be the partner you would like to have and the opponent you would like to play against.
Rod Bias, I/N Coordinator, D17.