The AGA conducted their usual board meeting on November 19th, 2023. They discussed the upcoming US Go Congress, a new proposed point qualification system for top AGA amateur go players, the upcoming Quzhou International Team Tournament, and hopes for future relations in the community. President’s Report AGA President Gurujeet Khalsa noted that the 2023 US Go Congress was financially a success for the AGA. He also stated that AGA membership held steady at approximately 2,400 members and 137 active chapters. 2024 Go Congress Update The AGA board is working to finalize costs for the 2024 Go Congress. The Congress will take place on July 13th through the 21st in Portland, Oregon. If you are interested in volunteering, click here: https://www.usgo.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=454497&module_id=614707 The World Amateur Go Championships Alan Huang will be the 2024 WAGC representative. While Japan will be the sponsoring country for the next two WAGCs, they also asked North America to host the WAGC in 2025. The AGA board is currently discussing potential locations. New Proposed Point System for Amateur Competitions The board reviewed a proposal for a new point system for top-level AGA amateur go players. While the point-system isn’t finalized, the motion passed to approve the board’s intention to adopt the new system. Proponents of the new system believe that it allows top-level amateurs to be rewarded based on consistent performance in tournaments throughout the year. However, some felt the proposed point system had geographic bias against certain parts of the US. European and Latin American Go Congress AGA Representatives The AGA raised the idea of sending one or two strong amateurs or professionals to the European and Latin Go Congresses to build connections with other Go associations. No plans were finalized. Website Updates, Social Media, and Streaming The AGA is looking to continue to improve its website. They're entering "phase two" of their new website, and are currently transferring decades of archived documents from the old website. As stated at the previous board meeting, the AGA hopes to continue to build and improve relationships with Go streamers. Quzhou International Children Amateur Team Tournament The AGA will send three youth players, chosen by highest rating and availability, to the upcoming Quzhou International Children Team Tournament. Stephanie Yin will coach the players in the friendly international competition. Next AGA Board Meeting The next AGA boarding will be held February 11th, 2024 @ 8:00 pm ET
