goodbye

[@donathos]

Nick, I don't know whether you were important to the "Go community," but you were important to me and my journey in the game. Please never doubt that you made a difference. Thank you very much for all of the time and effort you've put in over the years. I hope whatever you do, you find fulfillment, and maybe we'll see you again someday!

[@Tokens_G]

Same for me. Thank you Nick for all you’ve done! Some of the things you taught me about the spirit of go has stuck with me to this day. I hope you are happy in anything you decide to do!

[@slegyras]

Same.

[@carolynnsimpson5119]

Thanks for all you've done. My Son introduced me to the game 5 years ago. I would watch you and then play him...he would be incredibly surprised and thrilled that I could actually beat him at times!! Thanks for making it such a special time with my Son. I'm sorry to hear your goodbyes...please come back one day..

[@wimderooij4080]

Same for me.

[@hemmydall]

He's given a decade of online content for Go players to freely access. This has been (and will continue to be as archived videos) a huge pillar of support for those in the US imo. I think there are plenty of other people with your experience as well.

[@justintravis1598]

I have no idea why youtube recommended this video, but as someone who is older than you, I have had moments in life like this. Just remember that joy and interests come in waves. There is no shame in putting one interest aside, and there is no shame in picking it back up years later. You only have one life, and it has many phases and eras. Enjoy it, celebrate your successes and follow you feelings. The people in your life want you to be happy, not to use yourself up.

[@ChickpeaMilkshake]

On behalf of the internet, we humbly thank you for all you have done for go! 🙏🥺

[@tr0ublerising]

As someone that has followed you for years, and attended some of your lectures at the Go Center, It has been an honor to have received the knowledge that you have shared. Thank you.

[@Lenc88]

You taught me the game; but most importantly, when its time to tenuki. Sometimes its time to do something else.

[@Ungoliant85]

It's impossible for you to leave, you are already inside our hearts and you'll always be our 1st go teacher. Thank you so much man.

[@JotakRTS]

I'm a new Go player, learned it less than a year ago. Since then I've been watching through your videos, especially your old in-person lessons at the Go center. Even though you are no longer going to be as active in creating content, all of the content you have already made will continue to have an impact on the community. Thanks for helping me appreciate this amazing game!

[@annabunches]

Way back at the 2012 Go Congress, you said hi and invited me to a party on the last night, where you introduced me to a bunch of people and drunkenly played "make life in the center" with me. I don't know if you even remember that, but while I had been having a good time at the Congress, I was alone and a little overwhelmed and out of my depth, and with that one gesture you made the Go community suddenly feel way more welcoming and comfortable. You've made a huge impact in the community at large and I'm sure you've made countless other people feel welcome like that on an individual level. Anyway, I'm just trying to say that if there's any lingering concern about whether you've "done your part" or made a difference or whatever, you've gone above and beyond. I hope whatever direction you go from here is full of joy.

[@dem8568]

You taught me how to play Go. Take good care of yourself.

[@emmanuelpv7246]

With this channel, you have shown an exceptional commitment to the Go community. The pursuit of happiness is complex, and sometimes course changes are necessary. Your farewell saddens us, but you leave behind 12 years of profound value that has left a mark on those of us who entered this beautiful game just a few years ago. Thank you for everything, and I wish you the greatest of happiness.

[@ChickpeaMilkshake]

One often meets his destiny on the road he takes to avoid it...

[@sebastianp4023]

"I will not say 'Do not weep' because not all tears are evil." - Gandalf (LotR, The Return of the King)

[@jt3guitar]

Was wondering how you were and found this. Wanted to send my thank for introducing me to a big passion of mine. Your decision to move on is entirely respectable, but you will be missed deeply. You ought to be proud of the work you’ve done. Without exaggeration, I believe you have inspired an entire generation of western go players who will carry your flame! thank you thank you thank you.

[@novick4007]

Hey Nick, I've never really commented on your videos before, but your channel has been an ENORMOUS blessing to everyone I know in the go community. For real, we can't thank you enough for all the effort you've put into this over the years. You're a fantastic teacher, and it's been an honor to study with you. I'll be watching your old videos for a long time to come.

[@MelindaGreen]

You gave us plenty of warning, and every episode after 500 was like a special gift. I really appreciated all your great go content. I have a tiny channel where I just throw stuff out there, and I've been pretty disappointed with KZbin's behavior around ads for as long as I can remember. I don't monetize either and didn't know you'd done the same, so that just makes me love you all the more. It makes me sad to see you so sad, and like others will probably say, I'm a little worried about your emotional health. That's not to assign blame for your choice. It's really just to say that I care about you as much as I care about your tremendous body of high quality go content and I am glad that you are taking care of yourself. Thank you so much, Nick! 💖

[@NickSibicky]

Thank you, Melinda! I have read your comments on my video for YEARS, but regret only having responded to a few--that are always so genuine and witty. Thank you!!!!!

[@dynodan896]

Hello Nick, I know I've never really commented on your channel, but I remember finding your channel back when I was 13, not knowing anything about go, besides hikaru no go. Now being a 22 year old and even though I'm not much stronger than I was then, you were, and still are, an amazing teacher. Everything you taught made sense to me and helped me learn this amazing game that we play. And everyday I see go I immediately think of you and your lessons. It's sad to see you go, but I'll be here cheering you on matter what you do in your life, and every year I'll still go back and watch your videos to make sure I can still grow as a player. Hopefully someday I can be as good a player as you and I hope you and I can play a game of go someday.

[@heathhenning492]

8 years ago I moved to Seattle, and your videos, and being in person in yours and Andrew's classes are why the Go Center was the first place that felt like home out here. Thank you for all you've done Nick.

[@Riokaii]

Speaking for myself, I likely wouldn't have been playing go without people like you, but not just like you, specifically you, who cares about the philosophies of ads running on videos etc. You teach, educate, inform, and bring more than just go to people, you help us choose our values and choices of how we act upon the world. Even if the channel dies, it lives on as the basis and foundation of many and many go players, we are your go children, and I wouldn't be surprised if one of us ends up in the go world series either someday, butterfly effect and whatnot. All I can say is thank you, and I hope you find passion and happiness wherever else in life you do and that you feel fulfilled in pursuit of those instead, thats your decision to make and if its important to you, I think it is worth it and worthy of respect.

[@vidada3537]

Your channel is a gold mine, and I'm absolutely sure it will continue to be useful to many players. Algorithms are great when you want to reach a large audience, but passionate people will still make the effort to dig into that gold mine. Thank you for all you have done for the Go community!

[@scoon2117]

Love you Nick. Wouldnt be where im at in my Go without you. Your efforts were not in vain. Go live your dreams.

[@Lambocoon]

i only got into go in 2016-2017 after hearing abt lee sedol vs alphago, without a doubt you were the biggest contribution to my initial fascination with the game. i still go back to a lot of your old videos to review the lessons from them (like bent 4 in the corner, capturing races, your lecture on how to be a good teacher, etc). i always felt you were one of if not the best english speaking teacher for new players; you were particularly good at understanding your students' confusion and explaining things in ways that made sense to them. i always kinda wanted to go to one of your classes, but alas i live in DC and am poor. i would be no where near as enthusiastic about go if not for your influence, so thank you. enjoy your life

[@kbhamstar]

Came here to say all the same stuff! +1 to understanding students.. Nick, this really made your channel an invaluable resource for me for such a long time. You are so good at meeting students where they are so we all got to hear a variety of explanations for every level. Thank You!!

[@BlindoDoomborn]

You were my first go teacher. I am now a 2d and your lessons are what got me started. Thank you for all you have done. Enjoy taking a step back.

[@sebastianp4023]

Time for the 500+ videos rewatch marathon!

[@Jlundeen]

Hey Nick, I'm seeing a lot of comments here and it's clear a lot of people appreciate you. For me, your channel has helped more than any of the others that you consider more influential. You hit a sweet spot for mid-high level kyu players like me, and you're a likable guy. I'm not feeling let down that you're stepping back, but grateful that you've given so much. I'm a bit let down that you hate baseball, though, haha. I have a toddler and I hope he grows to appreciate both Go and baseball. All the best to you.

[@luccagiannechini2818]

You are a pillar of the community. Thank you for everything you have done for us! We'll all miss you. You should be extremely proud of how much you accomplished. Best of luck with your next pursuit!

[@tommyinnes]

I started playing Go in late August of this year. I joined a local "meetup" for a Chess and Go club. Our main Go organizer happened to not be there that day, so it was just the Chess organizer trying to manage 30-40 people. He still went out of his way to make sure I was having a good time, that I'd found the other Go players, that I was learning in the way the main guy likes to instruct new players. He even sat down with me and played a little Go, himself. At the end of the day, he handed me a book and a business card used to promote their club and it had two KZbinrs handwritten on there. Dwyrin and Nick Sibicky. You say you have an ego but even it isn't THAT big to think you're that important a part of the Go community. Or however you worded it. I think you're overly humble with a statement like that. You're big enough in the community that this guy who has at best a passing interest in Go knew you were the go-to resource for someone starting out. And your videos have been huge for me. Thank you for providing an invaluable resource to someone like me that you've never met. Without your videos to act as an anchor, I'm not sure I would have continued playing. And now I'm going to play for life. I already know it. I needed the foundation I got from watching your early videos, and I just haven't found their match yet. It's clear to me that you are and were the cream of the crop in terms of teaching Go on KZbin. Thank you.

[@ChangShuyeGuqin]

It's okay to end things, even the ones you feel so deeply about. It's hard, but it's okay. I've been following your channel for years. In fact, I think yours was one of my first subscriptions on KZbin. I can't say I've watched every one of your videos, but pretty darn close. Although I'm still terrible at the game, I love it and persist, and that love for the game was largely inspired by your early go lectures. Thank you for the dozen years of heart and soul you put into this channel. We are all better for it!

[@2tylesetter]

Hey Nick, please don't put yourself so down like that. I have never played a single game of Go in my life, ofcourse I wanted to and thats why I discovered your channel years ago. I mainly watch for your personality. I don't care what other pro players are out there making content. For me you are producing value just by being yourself on camera and talking about Go. Also I respect your endurance and consistency over 11 years of posting videos and I wish I had that consistency too with posting videos. Take a break but if you love posting videos know that we are here for you and that there will always be someone you can give value to no matter what!

[@rukawakaede6573]

It's sad to see someone who has been consistently uploading for years stop, but I get it. You've been doing it so long that you probably just felt like doing it even though you weren't as passionate about it as you were before. 12 years is a damn long time, making 500+ videos for as long as you have is something to be proud of. One thing I have to say is that what you've done with this channel had an impact on me and the rest of your viewers, it wasn't for nothing, you were a huge part of the Go community and you taught me a lot about Go. I wish you nothing but happiness, I'm grateful for the 12 years worth of content you've given us, and I promise you that I will always go back and rewatch some of my favorite Go lectures (Lecture 246 - My Class plays a pro was one of my favorites).

[@thomasmoore8637]

Hey Nick, I've never commented on your videos before, but I wanted to thank you for all you have done through this channel. I remember around 2014, just discovering Go, celebrating submitting my final year engineering project by watching the original Sibicky vs Jackson video. I'd pulled an all-nighter, and hadn't slept in 40 hrs, but I'd been saving that video for a week and didn't want to wait. While I never became the Go master I'd hoped to be (never getting past ~3k) I've always enjoyed your channel. More than Go, you taught me how to teach. These day I'm a professor in chemical engineering, and following your lead I always memorise all my student's names. You're a profoundly gifted teacher, and the dozens (hundreds?) of hours I've spent watching you work your craft has been time well spent. Thank you.

[@NickSibicky]

Wow! Thank you, Thomas!

[@conanthecribber]

I know exactly what you meant with the roulette wheel. I was a top frisbee player and coached many teams after age made me just a good player. It was my life for over 25 years, I'd overcome many injuries and kept on playing, kept preparing myself or my team for the next tournament. Then one day I came home and everything hurt, as it had many, many times, but this time I thought "why am I doing this to myself" and there was no answer. I knew then, probably like you did, that the ball had fallen into the triple zero spot. It was just time to stop. No logic, just feeling. I wish you well for your future. You've been a good embassador for the game and inspired others to also create Go content. And the best thing is, after some time, you can always change your mind. There are no rules to the future.

[@Haufpunk]

Yeah, thanks for everything Nick. This channel is a great resource for learning Go and you've made a huge contribution to the community.

[@quang-trandao4084]

Thank you for all these years. Please take a well deserved break.

[@ceroorec2153]

Man when I was first learning I literally used to fall asleep to your lectures at night. With school I fell out of habit with go and decided to check on your channel. You are certainly going to be missed! Thanks for all the insight over the years.

[@MichaelLarson512]

Hey Nick. You, dwyrin, and Michael Redmond have been the channels that have kept me in this hobby. You have made an impact on my life and I appreciate all the work you have done. Take care in what life bring you in the future.

[@jarosawkubiec1253]

Unfortunately I kinda saw that coming, and that is a very sad news. You were my favorite youtube go channel, and there is a small spark of hope that in a year or two I will see a video on this channel called "Welcome back". You mentioned that you felt that you took space in the community, and rightfully so, because you did something different, and that combination of being a strong player, really entertaining and insightful really worked for me. I'm not gonna lie, for me (and probably most of the community) your best content was in front of that magnetic board in Seattle Go Center. But even after that I still watch every single one of the new videos that you posted. Good luck Nick!

[@SoulGook]

I've only rarely commented on your videos, and that was a few years and a couple children ago. You weren't the first person to teach me go, but you certainly gave me the most perspective on what it *meant* to play. Even with the hustle and bustle of life, I have continued to watch from time to time, whenever a new lesson appeared in my subscription feed. What I appreciate most about your channel, *about you* , is your love of the game and its players. Your love of not only the most extraordinary play but also the most mundane. The patience you have with students of all levels and temperaments. The kindness and human connection you have put into this world in your go, I hope you receive in return many times over. Thank you Nick.

[@titusgray4598]

Hi Nick, I'm a 3d that has mostly gotten there thanks to you. Everyone deserves to exit stage left at some point, and I'd much rather this heartfelt au revoir than just trailing off slowly. Your videos have helped me and many others and I just wanted to say thanks to a Go friend that I never knew but somehow did quite well enough. Cheers.

[@WaltonReimer]

How did I miss this? You were my first teacher that I found good videos on it. Will be missed. Good luck on your new journies, and it was fun when it was here.

[@eydaimon]

The speaker reflects on their journey and recent decision to cease regular content creation for their Go-related KZbin channel. They begin with an anecdote about using a metaphorical 1000-slot roulette wheel to guide their decision-making process over their 13-year tenure. Each slot represented continuing their work, except for one, the triple zero, which symbolized the time to stop. They describe hitting this triple zero recently, marking an end to their regular content production. Their involvement in the Go community began with teaching and making videos at the Seattle Go Center, initially as a volunteer effort. They express that while this work was fulfilling, they always knew it couldn't last indefinitely. The speaker talks about their philosophical approach to life and their decisions. The decision to stop was influenced not only by a sense of completion but also by issues with KZbin, specifically their frustration with the platform running ads on their videos against their wishes. This action violated their intention to keep their channel ad-free, contributing to their feeling of disconnection from internet content creation and influencing their decision to halt regular content production. Despite ceasing regular uploads, they plan to continue playing Go and staying involved in the community. They express gratitude for the support they received through Patreon, which played a significant role in motivating them to continue as long as they did. They also discuss feelings of redundancy in the Go content creation space, as others with more passion have emerged. In conclusion, they thank the Go community for being part of their journey, hoping that their efforts have enhanced others' appreciation and understanding of the game. They acknowledge the potential fading of their channel due to the changing nature of KZbin's algorithms and the evolving content creation landscape, marking a shift in their involvement in the Go community.

[@danielgo2804]

Thank you for everything Nick! As a person the grew up on playing Go, then immigrate to Canada and stopped playing in teens, stumble upon your channel in my 30’s and re-ignited love of it. This led to playing my greatest and closest game I ever played with my dad who was a dan player in Korea while he was at a long term medical care just before the pandemic. Tragically that was my last in person game and last game my dad ever played as his health got worse and we never got to play again since. My dad always said you got to understand a person’s true characteristics when you play them in a game of Go, and in my game with my dad we were connecting in ways I never did in my life. You had a real impact in creating that moment for me and I sincerely appreciate you.

[@Neckohime]

I used to play Go many many years ago and with the help of your videos reached 4k level. Then Go became a burden for me because I felt that I need to evolve or abandon this game, and I need to choose between learning more or focusing on my job of being a game developer... and I chose the latter. It was a hard choice for me and I will never know what would happen if I'd picked differently. It is a really unique experience to touch this game at this level and have this almost cosmic feeling that you can't explain to people who are not familiar with this game. Like you are becoming a dust particle in the vast endless cosmic ocean. And that simple rules can create endless space in your head with the multiverse of opportunities. It's a really special moment that today your farewell video popped on my feed because I haven't seen any Baduk videos for many years. So I want to thank you for your work that has guided me and many other human beings to this cosmic ocean so we can experience it. Thank you Nick, you are the legend for me and changed my life even if we haven't met because I'm a dark matter person who usually doesn't leave a comment on social media. Than you! I'm feeling so grateful. You know when I read the book by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry I thought, wow this is The Man, now I have a similar feeling about you Nick. It doesn't matter what comes next in our lives, as you said, you just have a call for charge and accept it. Take care Nick and you will live forever in my heart as a teacher and a great person of our time!

[@heavyrainloverful]

You were my main teacher when I first learned Go and I may lose more than win against the AI but it’s still fun. I wish I was there for your in person lessons. Gonna miss you, Nick. Best wishes for the future!

[@BriNathanCollins]

For the last 12 years, this has been a job for you and now it can be be fun outlet without the need for a grinding content schedule. Just have fun and share on KZbin if you want and when you have time. Enjoy time with family and other awesome offline experiences. I don't see this as goodbye just a change that will be much less content, that's totally ok. Let the weight of content creation go and have fun. I can tell you hate seeing ads on KZbin, I personally don't care if there are ads if the video helped me learn a new skill in Go I would be fine watching tons of ads. Your content is awesome and it can live on through searchable content. Anyways, it's a hard call to make a big change like this and I'm happy for you and I hope you have time to do more of the things you love. If you find time and the desire to make a video down the road I'm down to watch, but don't worry about it. Thank you for everything and God Bless!

[@herenottherenorton]

I can say with absolute certainty that your videos started my passion for go and, although small, I've culminated a group of 10 or 20 people throughout my life that I've showed the game to and really grew friendships with. My thoughts are with you and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your contribution to the community and my/my friends lives.

[@BWintJack]

12 years is a long time to do one thing! I could never last that long; I get bored way too easily. Thank you for everything you've given the community, thank you for taking care of yourself, and best wishes with whatever you decide to do next.

[@rookiec4]

it's been special treat for 12 years, following from Turkiye. Still checking old vids and sharing to new players about what they are looking for.. it's been a great journey. Thanks for all your effords.

[@zacharylu205]

thanks for everything, nick - it’s been many great years following along and you were one of the reasons i revived my interest in go after many many years without playing. i know that this channel will remain an amazing portal into go for many long after the end of regular content, and wish you the best in everything!!

[@fredfleming6483]

Thank you, Nick.

[@patrickfougere0001]

I just found GO....you were one of the main sources that opened my eyes to the - one space jump, bad shapes, life and death, etc.... You need to follow your own path, but just remember the path you walked have effected a lot of people for the good and the game GO. Thank you for everything- if you decide to come back...... We'll be waiting.

[@monev44]

Farewell Nick. Thanks for the go'ing but we are all creatures of change, so please find fulfillment in whatever you choose to pursue going forward.

[@Doppelsoeldner]

Hey Nick Sibicky, we don't know each other. 31.600 People filling a Room right now, imagine that..and we are giving you a Standing applause for your real great, funny and nice go lectures. THANK YOU !

[@Induktyvumas]

Thank you, Nick! Have a blast, we will miss you!

[@tegdif4897]

I started watching you 10 years ago, as a freshman in college. You grew my passion for Go and filled many hours of isolation with fun! I am very grateful for all of the energy you've put into this channel over your life. I wish you peace. 有難う🧡

[@jimmyzcui]

Nick, during the darkest times in my life, your online Go lectures were the oasis and light that helped me bring a smile to my face and keep going. The only thing more precious than the actual Go content on your channel is your wonderful heart and personality. Thank you very much

[@howardthederp]

I have been following this channel for almost 4 years. Without your videos i honestly believe i would have quit a long time ago. There is no such thing as goodbye's, only new beginnings. Not only a new beginning for you but the inspiration you left behind will give birth to new go content creators. I appreciate the memories you gave and the journey you guided me on. I wish you and your family the best wishes and for the memories you make to be golden. ❤❤❤

[@haggbard]

Sad to see you leave. I started playing around the time you started this channel. I loved your videos. I have stopped playing several times for a few years and come back and one of the first things I have done each time coming back to the game has been to look if you're still making videos. All the people I have played with that has been watching go videos has seen three things, Hikaru no Go, Dwyrin, and your channel. I do believe you have had impact on the go community and I know you've had impact on me. I hear your voice inside my head when I see certain shapes or stumble upon certain situations on the board. Thanks for making videos for so long and I wish you good luck going forward.

[@jeronimospurimurguia9292]

I wanted to get into Go since I discovered the game as a kid, but every time I tried to play online it was not clicking, like I was unable to understand the game . Your videos took me from knowing the rules to being able to understand and play the "language" of Go (even if I would not dare to say I'm profiecient on it). You unlocked for me the first step in my progression through this game. I have been playing on and off for over a decade now, climbing ranks, getting stuck, moving to something else, coming back. I have a folder with every game I have played, sometimes I look back at the very first game there. It may sound stupid, but my experience with this game is a reminder of my own ability to progress. It is a proof that I can get better at things over time. This game is not a huge part of my life, but it is a important and formative one. By pure chance I was doing an internship in Seattle when I discovered your videos. I went to one of your classes live, that was the first time I saw a physical board. Now I have a board as the centerpiece of my living room. My girlfriend gifted it to me becuase I have started to play more often again. Thank you so much Nick, for opening up this game to me. I know there were other content creators out there, but for me specifically, it was you. Best of luck on whatever you want to do next! P.S.: Since I am thanking you already, let me tell you that King's Forge is the one game that has survived all my game library culls and will probably be buried with me when I die.

[@NickSibicky]

Thanks!

[@jamest9542]

Found your channel a few years ago and decided to start from the beginning to make sure I see all the episodes. I'm on #298 so years behind but saw this video pop up.

[@uetaookami]

Let me also thank you for the awesome ride you took us with. You are arguably the most authentic, humble, loyal and uncorrupted person on KZbin, and definitely a role model for me. I really hope the legacy you've created will live on forever. I'm still watching the early videos and so might future generations. Our relationship might be parasocial, but I genuinely care about your well being and can only wish you the best for your future. Thank you Nick for everything you've done for us!

[@YeOldeTraveller]

Thank you for all the content, and for reviewing one of my games. It was good to see you at the Go Congress as well. Good fortune in your future endeavors!

[@BadPepsiMan]

Thats sad. I just found your channel today. 😢

[@karayama100]

They say 12 years is a perfect cycle to start anew

[@grobolom]

You've been an inspiration and an excellent guide of Go for me - I remember subbing to you close to or maybe even more than a decade ago, and your channel was and is my formative go experience. Thank you for all your work and drive and love for this game, and know that this entire community appreciates and loves you!

[@hushvirginia]

I really appreciate this video. Thank you for listening to your heart. More people need to do that. I know this is a hard decision. I wish you all the best.

[@bladebreaker10]

Even a year removed from this video, I still come back and watch your videos and show my friends who play your lectures still. You may have been a drop in the KZbin bucket, but your ripple was so much larger than that.

[@CousinPaddy]

Dude, f KZbin. They’re the worst. I’ve never been good enough or committed enough to to playing watch your content regularly but I have watched many of your videos and early on you were instrumental in my love of the game. I still play every day. You’ve done a great job. Everything eventually ends, but as I found out when my father passed, nothing ever REALLY ends. We connect in people’s lives in ways we will never be aware of. And those interactions are the ones that are really important. You can put positive things or negative things out into the world, and by choosing positive, you enrich the world. Thanks for all you have contributed to the world of Go!

[@hologos_]

Hi Nick. I remember seeing Go for the first time in a move called A Beautiful Mind. It somehow made me want learn to play this game. Not so long after that I found your channel and spent hours and hours watching the lectures and reviews or historical games. Your videos were packed with knowledge and still entertaining. Some lectures with Dan really showed me what person you really are, that you really want to teach people even though some do not want to taught. Then you showed us you created board games and to this day, your games are one of the most loved in our collection. You definitely left a mark in this World, I thank you and I salute to you, sir.

[@TommentSection]

No worries at all Nick! The content you have put out has been a great help to the english speaking Go community. You've done so much for all of us! You certainly don't owe anyone anything - we owe you. On that note, if you ever find yourself around Santa Fe, NM, reach out! I at least owe you a beer and a green chile burrito

[@nathaniellahn6345]

Nick, teaching is so much more than being good at something. You have taught me the 'so much more'. I heard about Go back in the alpha go days as a CS undergrad, but didn't really 'get it' until I found your videos. There is plenty of other content out there for Go, but yours will probably always be my favorite. I watched your videos heavily during my Phd. They left an impact on me in several ways: 1.) They taught me how to play Go. More so, they taught me how to 'think' about Go. And how to think about thinking. 2.) They helped me through some really tough times during my Phd, where my mental health was at a fairly low point. Your personality is great for teaching, and has given me many laughs. 3.) They taught me how to teach. After getting my Phd, I became a tenure track professor. I had very limited teaching experience prior, but I learned how to teach by watching other people's lectures on various topics. I consider your lectures one of my top influences in this regard, along with a few other lectures from various other subjects. I have recorded many lecture videos, for just a handful of students, and can totally relate to the feeling of 'is this really having an impact'. You often get very little feedback from videos -- in person teaching is a lot better in that regard. However what forms us can be very subtle. A single stone placed in the farthest corner of the world can cause a ripple effect, and change the entire course of the game, unbeknownst to us. The people we impact, in turn, impact others. We may not see it, but it is surely there. Your impact is strictly positive any way I think about it. I say all of this, not as a way to say 'keep making videos' but as a way of saying 'thank you for making the videos you have made'. I wish you the best moving forward.

[@en0n126]

Thanks so much Nick for all the videos you made. I was just discovering Go 12 years ago when you started your channel and you really drove my love and amazement for the game. I almost loved a well commentated pro game review more than playing Go itself. I haven't played a game for years now, but it's still a favorite and I still watch videos from time to time. I suuuuper respect your decission, and I hope you have no regets about continuing as long as you did. Your contributions touched others in a big way. I also have very strong feelings about advertising and I would definitely feel very violated if an outward extension of my passion was monotized with ads without my permission or benifit. Screw that in every way. I truly hope you continue to persue your passion, and in a way that you find most satisfying and worth your time. It's the purpose of life. Thank you again for sharing.

[@petemchugh2010]

I have watched probably hundreds of hours of your content. I have listened to more hours of you than most people I know. I can't imagine how much effort it was to produce that. Can't thank you enough for all your effort. Don't feel guilty for stopping for a second, have a great life. Your videos will live on and so will your influence on all of us! ❤

[@evarchavex4800]

You got us into Go and helped us stumble through the rules when starting, now we're 5 Kyu. Thank you, and we hope you enjoy whatever comes next for you.

[@SeuPera]

Thank you. We all have phases on our lives. You had a beautiful phase teaching us, and we are greatfull. I hope that you keep your head up, because it's obvious that you did a great job. So, so long and thanks for all the fish

[@NickSibicky]

I already have my towel!

[@SamuelSmithJ]

I haven't played Go in nearly a decade, but I've still caught dozens, if not hundreds, of your videos. I decided a long time ago it was not worth the amount of time it'd take to get good at the game, but I can still appreciate it from the outside. Hope you can come to terms with the same re: KZbin.

[@willyojeda6396]

I love you Nick. You where my best ddk teacher. I wouldn't play go if it wasn't for you. I remember when I started to play the game to behours every day studying with your videos looking forward tobeat a friend ofmine (waymore stronger than me andI didn't realize that backthen). I didn't eat him ever, he stopped playing but I have now a higher rank than him. Your videos where amazing. Love you again, and I will always remember you with much care.

[@jaspires21]

Hey Nick, I just wanted to thank you for all your work. I'm a low DDK player and never really plan to get much better. I just don't have the drive or time to play a lot of games. I've watched your videos not so that I can't get stronger, but because I like your perspective on the game and personality. You have helped me to better understand the beauty and complexity of Go. If this is your last video, that's ok. There are still many of your videos that I have left to watch. If you decide to post one video every year or two or five, it will be a pleasent surprise for the day. Some of my favorite creators don't post regularly, which is totally fine. I've been subscribed to your channel for years, and don't plan to change that. I hope this channel has brought you joy and I hope whatever you do next will, too.

[@RomainGuimard]

I’m gonna really miss you. I might rewatch them all someday. That will definitely bring tears. And maybe see you at the go congress someday. Happy going to you.

[@MarioNintendoh]

Playing Go changed my life, and your videos played a part in this. Thank you Nick. You left a permanent mark here.

[@TefGG]

Best of luck Nick! You got me hooked with Go once upon a time. Cheers 🍻

[@rortizdu]

Hi Nick. I started to play Go 30 years ago. At some point I found your channel and I got enthusiastic with your lessons that helped me a lot to improve my game. Then I stoped playing for differente reasons and a few months ago I decided that it was time to come back again, and one of the first things that I did was to look for your channel and I was very happy to see that you still continued with it! I'm sorry that you are quiting now, but I fully understand. I will start to watch all your videos again, from the begining to try to reach the level that I had before I left. Thanks a lot for your dedicacion and for all the positive impact that you had on me! Regards from Spain.

[@michaelcooley2670]

Thank you, Nick!

[@paigemartin3827]

Nick, I just want to say that this internet Stranger hopes your next chapter is a passionate, fulfilling one. There’s no shame in embracing change in life. Your videos helped me develop a deeper level of thought about Go, and what the game might mean to me. It helped me stay motivated to learn, made the game more enjoyable, and multiplied my joy. I’d be sad if you kept working at something that wasn’t bringing you that same joy. Please take care of yourself, and thank you for your work.

[@Bladavia]

Yeah it's literally the "Nick Sibicky Go channel", wouldn't make sense to see someone else making content here. Thanks for your efforts, and good luck in the rest of your journey

[@JadeBilkey]

Nick, you were important to my Go. Your personality brought a human element, a humour to Go for me that I didn't find elsewhere. I've felt like I got a window into a Go club I never had.

[@mehdihajjam6655]

Nick, a little message to say thank you for all those years of content creation. I’m from France and yeah the internet is weird but it’s the only place a person from one side of the Atlantic can entertain one on the other side by playing go. I’ll miss your content as a whole, and especially the Andrew Jackson series. But I’m glad for you: it’s very hard to find the courage to stop doing something you love because you don’t feel ‘into it’ enough anymore. That shows what a great person you are and how much you love the game. Those are not news to us. Godspeed!

[@tobywright951]

I learnt go from you and I thank you for it, nothing amazingly special came from it, but it made my life so much more bearable and beautiful. Thanks Nick

[@teilzeitkommunist2222]

the only influencer goodbye video I ever cared about :) made me cry a bit. love and aapreciation from Germany

[@larsgreddoch9825]

Yes, its the same for me, you showed always that there is a human behind this content, and this is great. All the best for you and greetings from Hamburg, Germany.

[@christophh3233]

Same here from Krefeld, Germany. Also cried a little :) I‘m going through a big shift in my life right now and can relate to many things you said. You were part of my life for 10 years. It’s a little sad that I only get myself to comment on such a video. Your other videos would have deserved at least a thank you too. I’ll try to keep that in mind, watching people out there. It’s a shame, that I was in Seattle a few month before learning about your class at the Go-Center. Maybe some time in the future I’ll have the chance to buy you a beer. Thanks for all the fish! Christoph

[@touisbetterthanpi]

Nick your videos helped me so much, not just to improve my game, but helped keep me sane while i was studying mathematics

[@WeizDLC]

Your contributions will be respected for many years. This is a thoughtful and healthy choice. Thank you for everything and I hope your next journey is just what you need.

[@ahahibrahim]

I have never commented or supported your Patreon, but I would like to say thank you and good luck in your future endeavors. I enjoyed and benefited from your videos.

[@michaelskotiniotis8485]

Well done youtube. Your unacceptable, invasive, and agressive ad policy has driven off one more brilliant person who shared his passion and knowledge with the world. Thank you Nick. I became a better Go player thanks to you, but i empathise with you and fully respect your decision. It saddens me to see you go, and I will miss your lectures, your quirky humour and your wit. All the best to you and your family for the future. So long and thanks for all the fish :)

[@andrewlord3398]

Watched so many of your videos. You taught me Go. Thank you.

[@trevoidc9859]

Thanks for the go videos. I never made it to 1 dan but I did make it to 3-4 kyu for a while on ogs back in 2017. Hopefully you can post update videos at least once a year that aren't go related. Go is what brought me to your channel but your spontaneous commentary is what kept me coming back.

[@themanwiththepan]

I remember wathcing your old go lectures 10 years ago. Those lectures are now 11 years old and I remember watching many hours of you and Jackson. I don't play go anymore, but it's nice to see you again. Do not think the channel turns to dust because you need to remember that those people who have watched and do remember your videos may watch them again and again for years to come.

[@NiaGen]

Nick, your channel and hard work at Go Center, and behind the walls, here on the internet - is a fundamental work. I always dreamed about being abroad, and in the US, and if it's Seattle, first I would attend Go Center to see you guys and listen to your lectures. Have a tea together. Only after - space needle :D Your videos were the meditation before bed all of these years. I watched it, I learned new stuff, I was quitting the game. But every time I got back, I started over with your videos. I'm from Ukraine, and I was the guy who were translating all of your words to Go players, for our local Go club. You were commented on by dan players so we ddks, sdks could understand your thoughts. Everyone was listening with interest and passion. You are famous and respected but still modest and sincere. May your wind of change won't frustrate you, and everything turn out well. Thank you for everything!

[@Chris-wp7fj]

Nick, great job. Time for a tenuki

[@BVP93]

I just got into Go and found your videos recently and have been watching them religiously. If this is the end of your YT journey and teaching Go, hope it gives you peace to know these videos will continue to help players like me out I appreciate your passion and love your friendly disposition. Hope you find something that gives you peace. The emotion in your voice brought tears to my eyes knowing how important this is for you. Good luck with everything

[@outrotipo4193]

Hi! It is difficult for most of us to understand the amount of energy and choices that you had to make in order to keep up the channel, in such good shape and for so long. Rather than worry about the future (worry is not a good word for what I mean... but I don't know what's the correct one to put there!), you are entitled to rejoice in having done a good job! I am a hobbyist go player, from Brazil. I've created a go club in 2007 at my university. (which is still going on... over 15 years later! --- thanks to the effort of others who took over after I graduated, of course). I have had very little time for go since those days, but greatly enjoyed your videos. They were and are a way to relive some of the excitement of the game, even though I haven't played in a tournament in over a decade now.... I can feel the joy you have in teaching and sharing with others. It is inspiring. Congratulations on your work and attitude, and best luck with your future endeavours. Whether or not for the eyes of the internet, I know you'll keep improving the lives of people you meet. We never met, and probably never will. But I like to think that if we did we'd have a good conversation =) Cheers!

[@claeswilliamsson8777]

Thank you for your service, Nick! Came back into go when you were starting out those 10-12 years ago, stuck around for a couple years and popped back in every now and then for a 'sandbagger' or 'wine' episode. All the best to you in whatever life throws at you! .

[@Venti9874]

When I got interested in learning Go perhaps 8 years ago, your videos were my favorite. Eventually I stopped both playing and watching, but you have made a magnificent body of work. If it could live forever on the internet, I think it would be a net positive for humanity, and if it doesn't, it might be a sign that we are living in a dark age. I'm just so glad this was just stopping videos, and not cancer.