OUR TEAM
Meet Our Team
Introducing the Elite Team Behind the Ultimate Backgammon Tournament Experience
AVI (SHESHBESH) COHEN
Tournament Producer
ARDA FINDIKOGLU
Head Director
Michihito Kageyama
Boot Camp Director
Arda Fındıkoğlu
Arda Fındıkoğlu is the world’s leading backgammon event organizer, renowned for his collaboration with esteemed entities like the WBF, WBGF, BG Galaxy, and MCBA. With over 25 years of experience, he has organized more than 300 events globally, including the World Backgammon Championship in Monte Carlo since 2015 and the Merit Open in Northern Cyprus.
Arda is known for his ability to bring players together as a close-knit family, personally welcoming everyone when they arrive and seeing them off when they leave. His events are celebrated for their sense of community and camaraderie.
In November 2024, Arda will direct the 1st Miami Open Backgammon Championship, marking his first time as executive tournament director in the USA. This event will feature his famous gala award ceremony, the first of its kind in the country. No more early Sunday departures, the party will be on Sunday night, honoring each winner with the recognition they deserve.
The 1st Miami Open Backgammon Championship promises to be a memorable event, embodying Arda’s exceptional ability to create a warm, inclusive atmosphere for all participants.
Michihito Kageyama
Michihito “Michy” Kageyama is one of the most celebrated figures in international backgammon, renowned for his exceptional skill, strategic brilliance, and lifelong dedication to the game. Born in Japan, Michy began his professional journey in 1997 and has since become a central figure on the global backgammon stage.
A prolific competitor, Michy has won prestigious tournaments across the world, including titles in Japan, Gothenburg, Munich, Portugal, Athens, Mallorca, Menton, and at the BMAB Boot Camp in Cyprus. His victories also extend to high-profile Super Jackpots at the Las Vegas Open, Chicago Open, Washington DC, Texas Championship, Paris Open, Swedish Open, Merit Open, and the Arab Open Backgammon Championship, confirming his reputation as a world-class force in both traditional and high-stakes events. Between 2012 and 2017, he proudly represented Team World at the Nordic Open, further cementing his place among the game’s elite.
Michy’s excellence has been formally recognized: he reached #3 in the world rankings (2023) and holds the prestigious Grandmaster G0 title from the Backgammon Masters Awarding Body (BMAB), one of the highest honors in the game.
Beyond his competitive success, Michy is a dedicated teacher and author. He has mentored young talents at the annual U25 Backgammon Summer Camp in Japan, led seminars throughout Europe, the USA, and online, and authored highly regarded books, including Opening Concepts, Endgame Technique, and Back Checker Strategy. His YouTube channel, with over 100 instructional videos, continues to educate and inspire players worldwide.
A true ambassador of the game, Michy combines a championship pedigree with a passion for teaching. His lectures and seminars offer rare insights into the mind of a Grandmaster, making him not only a formidable competitor but also one of the most influential educators in modern backgammon.
Avi (Sheshbesh) Cohen
Avi “Sheshbesh” Cohen has become a prominent figure in the backgammon world through his exceptional organizing abilities and significant contributions. After relocating to Miami in 2008 and founding a successful car care company, Avi delved into the international backgammon scene in 2019. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, he excelled in online play and transitioned spectacularly to live tournaments, securing numerous victories across the United States and internationally.
Beyond his accomplishments on the board, Avi’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and education within the backgammon community is truly commendable. Recognizing the barriers that often deter players from participating in live events, Avi founded BackgammonConnection.com Through this innovative platform, he provides aspiring players worldwide with access to top-tier education, equipment, and reduced-cost entry and trips to live tournaments.
As a seasoned teacher and mentor, Avi’s influence extends far beyond the tournament table. His pioneering TBT Event and the 2-Day Boot Camp seminar has equipped countless players with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of competitive backgammon.
Driven by his unwavering passion for the game, Avi embarked on yet another ambitious endeavor – the creation of the 1st Miami Open Backgammon Championship. Set to debut in early December 2024, this event promises to be a milestone in the American backgammon calendar.
Avi’s journey is a testament to dedication, innovation, and community-building. His efforts continue to inspire and elevate players worldwide, leaving an indelible impact on the game he loves.
Meet Our Team
Side Events Director
Side Events Assistant
Players Cup Director
Social Media Director
Registration / Translator / Table Set Ups / Accessories
Novice Social Event Director
Guest Experiance Director
Tournament Entertainment and Energy!
Avi, Meital, Shay li & Emily
The Miami Open is more than just a tournament; it’s a labor of love from the Cohen family. Avi, Meital, Shay Li, and Emily work year-round to create an unforgettable experience for every player, guest, and backgammon fan. As a family-run event, the Miami Open reflects their passion for excellence, hospitality, and the growth of the game. From elevating the atmosphere to ensuring every detail is top-tier, their commitment shines through in every corner of the event.
Beyond the beachside boards, they’re also building the future through Backgammon Connection, which offers qualifiers to major global tournaments and educational opportunities for the next generation.
Stay tuned, stay rolling, and stay connected, great things are on the way from the Backgammon Family! 🎲❤️