OUR TEAM
Meet Our Team
Introducing the Elite Team Behind the Ultimate Backgammon Tournament Experience
AVI (SHESHBESH) COHEN
Tournament Producer
ARDA FINDIKOGLU
Head Director
Masayuki Mochy Mochizuki
Boot Camp Director
Arda Fındıkoğlu
Masayuki Mochy Mochizuki
Masayuki “Mochy” Mochizuki, recognized as the #1 backgammon player on the Giants List for an unprecedented decade since 2013, is a true icon of the international backgammon community. Born in Tokyo in 1979, Mochy began his international career in 2001 and quickly rose to the pinnacle of the game.
Mochy is a two-time world champion (2009, 2021) and has claimed four Ultimate Backgammon Championship titles in the past five years. His impressive list of victories includes the Las Vegas Open, the Nordic Open Super Jackpot, the European Championship, and many others across the globe. In 2019, he earned Super Grand Master status, maintaining a remarkable performance rating (PR) under 2.5 over 300 matches—the best PR ever recorded. He was inducted into the American Backgammon Hall of Fame in 2023.
Beyond his achievements on the board, Mochy is a dedicated teacher and author. He has delivered lectures in over 20 countries, provided private lessons to players of all levels, and co-authored Master Class with Marc Olsen, an essential resource for backgammon enthusiasts. Mochy’s teaching methods include play-along sessions, targeted lectures, and strategic insights that have defined his success, offering players a chance to learn from one of the greatest minds in 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.
Side Events Director
Side Events Assistant
Players Cup Director
Social Media Director
Registration / Translator / Table Set Ups / Accessories
Registration / Translator / Table Set Ups / Accessories
Guest Experiance Director
Tournament Entertainment and Energy!
Bill Riles & Tara Mendicino
Bill Riles and Tara Mendicino are the premier team for live streaming backgammon matches, enhancing the visibility of major tournaments worldwide. Their state-of-the-art international video streaming services offer 24-7 access, significantly promoting the game. They have invested extensively in advanced technology and training, ensuring top-notch streaming and commentary. As American ambassadors, they have traveled globally, becoming a well-known duo in the backgammon community.
Events They Have Streamed: Texas, Chicago, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Charlotte
International: Monte Carlo, Trier, Germany, Stockholm, Sweden, Dubai
AND IN THE MIAMI OPEN BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIP
Bill and Tara continue to set the gold standard in backgammon streaming, broadening the game’s global reach.
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! 🎲❤️