Happy New Year!

Dear players, organizers, volunteers, and friends of Go across Europe,

As we begin the year 2026, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to the entire European Go community. It is a great honor to address you for the first time as President of the European Go Federation.

For me, shaping the future of the EGF is very much like playing a game of Go.
First of all, the opening matters:
in the upcoming months we will focus on a good Fuseki -- setting a balanced and thoughtful direction that allows many different initiatives to develop naturally.
Where proven structures exist, we will rely on solid Josekis -- learning from experience and continuing what has worked well in the past.

At the same time, European Go is diverse and complex. Different countries, cultures, traditions, and circumstances interact continuously.

Like in a game of Go for which all moves are available for all the players and kibitzes, my intention is to work transparently and openly, trusting that clarity and dialogue help us find good moves together.

A strong federation, like a strong Go position with a lot of potential, can only succeed if also taking care of the weaker groups.
I want the EGF to support all its members, ensuring that no community feels isolated, and that cooperation and mutually beneficial choices (Miais) will guide our decisions.
By building influence through collaboration and turning it into concrete results, we can build both (1) influence and (2) make territory: strengthening Go's presence while creating real opportunities for players, organizers, and teachers.

As the game progresses, the Yose reminds us that details matter.
Careful work, fairness, and consistency are essential, especially when resources are limited or when difficult decisions arise. When challenges appear (a direct Atari is played), we aim to respond calmly and constructively, focusing on solutions rather than on blame.

Finally, like we all know from Tsumegos, Go teaches us to think ahead, to recognize patterns, and we might make mistakes on the way but we are eager to find the solution. I hope that 2026 will be a year of learning and growth for all of us -- on the board and beyond it.

I wish you many enjoyable games, meaningful encounters, and continued progress in the coming year.
I look forward to working together well -- with respect, patience, and shared ambition.

With my best regards,
Manja Marz
President, European Go Federation