Although long established across China, Japan, Korea and most other Asian countries, Go is still relatively unknown and unplayed in the West. That being said, most European countries have their own National Go Associations, mostly voluntary and charitable organisations, set up to promote and publicise the personal and social benefits of learning and playing Go. The American Go Association also does a great deal of work in this area and there are also similar groups across Latin America and the rest of the world.
Although there are now also lots of Go resources online, by far the best way to learn the game is to come along to a Go club. Here you will find other players and enthusiasts who will be more than willing not only to show you how to play but also freely give their time to help you develop and deepen your knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of Go.
At Nottingham Go club, we have several very strong players, who are more than happy to share their knowledge and experience with other newer players and beginners. We also encourage all our members, and at all levels to play in an atmosphere of friendly rivalry, courtesy and respect for their opponents.
Outside of the professional game, we are all students of Go and each game we play provides us with a new opportunity to learn and deepen our understanding of this wonderful game.
I really believe, that if you are prepared to give just ten minutes a day to playing, thinking or studying Go, then your progress in the game will be rapid. And of course, if anyone asks you what you are doing, you can simply answer…”Oh this is Go… do you have ten minutes and I’ll show you?”
