IM Josh Friedel

• USCF Rating: 2537
• Openings : -25
• Tactical Ability : +50
• Positional Play : +0
• Endgame Technique : -25
• Speed Chess : 5
• Consistency : 8
• Tenacity : 7
• Overall Aggressiveness : 7
• Against Strong Players : 6
• Against Weak Players : 8

Strengths: Josh is now very solid in all aspects of the game. His greatest asset is still his tactical ability and ability to find strange ideas that no one else would look at.

Weaknesses: Josh is somewhat predictable with his opening selection. He can also be way too optimistic about his position.

Amusing Story:

I first met Josh at the 2001 US Open in Reno Nevada, even though we lived only 10 minutes from each other in New Hampshire. I was the NH representative for the Denker High School tournament. I remember Josh had just made master at the US Open, and was thrilled about it. For some reason, we decided to play a skittles game, and I managed to win the game. Josh requested a rematch, which I promptly declined. He has been getting back at me in tournaments ever since.

Reason for this song choice:
Josh likes to go his own way in chess and life. Most strong players his age are quitting chess for other things, but Josh remains dedicated to the game.