Learning Resources at Bridge Manitoba for New and Improving Players

Updated

Bridge Manitoba (bridgemanitoba.org) lists several ways to learn and improve, from accredited teachers and a beginner seminar to free online practice tools, newcomer games, and a mentorship program. The right starting point depends on whether you are completely new, returning to the game, or already playing and looking to advance.

Lessons and Accredited Teachers

The site's Lessons/Teachers section names three instructors:

  • Jim and Keran Sanders — listed alongside "An Easy Intro to Duplicate Bridge."
  • Bill & Sue Treble — described as experienced accredited bridge teachers.
  • Rasim Sari — listed as an accredited bridge teacher.

If you prefer structured, in-person instruction with a named teacher, this is the most direct route. The site does not publish schedules or fees for these teachers, so contact them through the details on the Lessons/Teachers page before committing.

Learning Tools for Self-Study

Bridge Manitoba points to several external and online resources:

Tool What it is for
ACBL Online Intro to Bridge A starting point for learning the game online through the ACBL
Bridge Base Online (BBO) Playing and practicing online; also used for some unit games
Bridgeclues.com Bid and play problems for self-directed practice
Free Trickstarter Bridge Class Declarer-play practice focused on winning tricks
Online Magazines Background reading and improvement articles

These suit players who want to practice on their own schedule rather than attend a class. The site also runs a Learn How to Play Bridge Seminar — check the Announcements section for current dates.

Games for Newcomers and Improving Players

The site separates Novice/Intermediate Games from regular weekly games, so newer players can compete against others at a similar stage rather than jumping straight into open duplicate. Scheduled games are organized through the listed clubs:

  • Bridge Manitoba
  • Ambassador Bridge Club
  • Kirkfield Westwood
  • Carman Bridge Club
  • Pembina Bridge Club
  • Pinawa Bridge Club

Results from club and tournament play are posted on the Game Results pages, which is useful for seeing how these games are run before you attend.

Mentorship Program

For players who already know the basics but want guidance, the site lists a Mentorship Program. This is the natural next step after lessons or a beginner seminar: you play with or alongside more experienced players rather than only studying.

A Practical Path

  1. Completely new? Start with the Learn How to Play Bridge Seminar or the ACBL Online Intro to Bridge, then practice on Bridgeclues.com or BBO.
  2. Know the basics but new to duplicate? Try "An Easy Intro to Duplicate Bridge" with the Sanders, then join a Novice/Intermediate game at a club near you.
  3. Playing regularly and want to improve? Use the Mentorship Program and the bid-and-play problems on Bridgeclues.com between sessions.

One caveat: the site is a hub of links and announcements rather than a single course catalogue. Dates, costs, and registration details for lessons and seminars are not stated on the home page, so confirm them with the individual teacher or club before your first session.