FM Mehmed Pasalic

Though he's technically still a FIDE Master, we expect to change the FM title above shortly to IM. Mehmed has fulfilled all the requirements for the title of International Master, and all that remains for it to be final is a perfunctory review by the World Chess Federation.

Born in Bosnia, Mehmed grew up in Germany and later moved to the U.S. He has lived in Chicago for the past several years. We are pleased to have IM-elect Pasalic as a member of the Blaze, where he will likely be a 2nd/3rd board.

Says Blaze Manager Glenn Panner:

"One of the things that really impressed me about him is Pasalic's humility. I recall watching a game between Dr. Mark Sefcheck (a 1700 player) and Pasalic last year at the US Open. Sefcheck played a fine game, and even had Pasalic on the ropes for a time before losing. After the game, Pasalic was gracious enough to show Sefcheck a positional rook sacrifice that was winning while complimenting his play. Sefcheck left feeling very good despite the loss. It was obvious that this game was not Mehmed's finest performance, but his kindness and sportsmanship were noteworthy. More players of all ratings should behave this way."

Source: pannerchess