Celebrating Black Excellence in Chess: Spotlight on Coaches Derek Wilder and Perpetual Ogbiyoyo
Celebrating Black History Month: Spotlight on Coaches Derek Wilder and Perpetual Ogbiyoyo
As Black History Month unfolds, Chess Life Online continues to honor the contributions of Black players and coaches in the chess community. Following the profiles of rising stars Jacorey Bynum and International Master Tani Adewumi, we turn our focus to two influential coaches: Derek Wilder from Detroit and WFM Perpetual Ogbiyoyo from New York City.
Originally intended as separate features, the combined insights from Wilder and Ogbiyoyo reveal a shared philosophy: there is no singular approach to coaching. Instead, their success stems from their unique backgrounds and the passion they bring to their teaching.
Coaching with Heart
Derek Wilder leads chess teams at Chrysler Elementary School, Ralph J. Bunche Preparatory Academy, and Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School. Under his guidance, the Chrysler team clinched back-to-back state titles in the Michigan State Scholastic Championship in 2019 and 2020. Wilder’s students have consistently excelled, with many placing highly in national competitions.
In contrast, Perpetual Ogbiyoyo began her coaching journey in Nigeria before relocating to the U.S. She now coaches through the Impact Coaching Network at several schools in New York City, including PS 282, PS 20, and PS 130M. Ogbiyoyo recently celebrated her PS 20 team’s victory in the Brooklyn Cup, achieved in just their second year of competition.
Building Resilience and Confidence
Both coaches emphasize the importance of resilience and confidence in their students. Wilder finds joy in witnessing the moment when a strategy practiced in training translates into success during tournaments. “That’s the best feeling ever,” he shares. Ogbiyoyo echoes this sentiment, stating, “Chess reveals character. When a child loses a painful game and chooses to return stronger, they are building more than rating points. They are building resilience.”
Their students come from diverse backgrounds, with many starting from scratch. Wilder notes that the thrill of traveling to competitions motivates his students to work hard, while Ogbiyoyo highlights the potential she sees in each child, regardless of their initial skill level.
A Legacy of Impact
Wilder’s accolades include a Spirit of Detroit award for his outstanding service to the community, while Ogbiyoyo is dedicated to expanding opportunities for girls through her initiative, Promoting Queens. “Talent is universal. Opportunity is not,” she asserts, emphasizing her commitment to creating an environment where girls can thrive in chess.
Both coaches have impressive playing backgrounds as well. Ogbiyoyo led the University of Port Harcourt women’s chess team to victory at the Nigerian University Games, while Wilder achieved a national rating over 2000 in 2022.
Words of Wisdom
When asked about their coaching philosophies, Wilder advises aspiring coaches to prioritize the love for their students. “A lot of them need mentorship and love,” he says. Ogbiyoyo adds, “Coaching is stewardship. It is not about showing your strength. It is about building someone else’s confidence.”
As they reflect on their journeys, both coaches emphasize the transformative power of chess. Wilder credits the game with keeping him out of trouble during his youth, while Ogbiyoyo sees chess as a vehicle for developing strategic thinking and resilience in her students.
Conclusion
Derek Wilder and Perpetual Ogbiyoyo exemplify the profound impact that dedicated coaches can have on their students and communities. As we celebrate Black History Month, their stories remind us of the importance of mentorship, resilience, and the power of chess to change lives.