Chess is a noun and, according to Merriam-Webster, is a game for two players of whom plays with 16 pieces on a checkerboard. Although for most chess seems like a silly boardgame people play when they’re board, or an advanced game for only ‘nerds’, chess is so much more that.
Chess was invented in the 6th century CE, making it one of if not those oldest games of all time. Even though the game is centuries old, people all around the world are getting into it every day, and the world is learning new things such as openings as we play the game more and more. There are tens of thousands of chess clubs all around globe, so we must have one here at CSHS right? Of course!
Our chess club contains of around 20 members from extremely experienced, to no experience at all. Camden Hulse, a senior that has been in the chess club for only one year, had a lot to when asked how he feels about the club and chess itself. “The environment that we practice in is collaborative and engaging. It helps us prepare for tournaments and improve as players by learning new techniques.” When asked what tips he would give new players, he said, “Some tips I have for beginners are controlling the center and developing critical pieces (those being the bishops, knights, and queen) early.”
Camden has been playing chess for a big part of his life, but what about the players that have just started playing? This is my first year in chess club and playing chess. I met new people, gained knowledge in the beautiful game, and achieved many goals I had. I am still pushing myself to be better as I play matches every day, attempting to improve in ‘Elo’ and skill.
Elo is the ranking number you are as a player, for instance, a low Eloplayer would consist of an individual that just started playing chess and is having a difficult time grasping the concept. Their Elo would be 500 or less. In my case, I have an 830 Elo now, however, I play at a much higher Elo in real games and tournaments. Elo doesn’t matter as much as individuals make it seem, however, it is a nice accomplishment.
A newer member of the club, Isa, loves the game of chess, although he admits he may not be the best at it. Since the first time I played him until now, he has improved drastically and is a fast learner!“Overall, I feel tournaments are fun. I not only get to represent my school at a district level, I also get the opportunity to make new friends as well as find ways to improve. One of my main tips for beginners is to take control of the center, as well as keeping pieces connected and safe. Then environment which I practice in, is similar to tournaments in a way and really lets me develop my critical thinking skills.”
He ended the interview off by addressing the elephant in the room and the biggest question yet, who the best player is. “The best player in the club is Camden Hulse.” Woah! Controversial much?!
