Jovanka Houska receiving her award from ECF President Gerry Walsh

Jovanka Houska - Player of the Year 2006

Player of the Year 2006

The English Chess Federation is delighted to announce the winner of the 2006 Player of the Year award. This goes to England’s Jovanka Houska. This is unprecedented as Jovanka is the first female to receive this prestigious recognition. This historic occasion will be celebrated by the prize giving ceremony and handover of the award by ECF President Gerry Walsh. Jovanka has enjoyed a thrilling career so far and the last 12 months have witnessed a serious challenge for the Women’s World Chess Championship in 2006 amongst numerous impressive performances.

Jovanka, despite the east European sounding name, was born in South London. She is one of the few English chess professionals around these days and proudly boasts a WGM (International Woman’s Grand Master title), is qualified at male International Master level and has aspirations to become England’s first proper female Grandmaster.

Jovanka says: ‘My first achievement that I was really proud of was representing England in the World girl’s Championship under 10. I was also European Under 20 Girl’s Champion in 2000, which I think is probably my greatest achievement.’ Jovanka also adds: ‘This year I participated in the European Individual Championship for Women in Moldova. I finished in the top ten and earned the right to play in the World Championships.’

Gerry Walsh, President of the English Chess Federation commented: “I am absolutely delighted for Jovanka. She has performed brilliantly this year and has always been a popular and enthusiastic personality on the circuit.