The game of chess: an oldie but a goodie. Chess is a classic two-player board game using a chessboard and 16 pieces for each player. One player controls the black pieces and the other the white. Tt’s a game that makes you use your brain, while also having fun.

Chess is a relaxing, mind-stimulating game perfect for the environment of the school. School chess clubs can supply many advantages to students and schools. In a world where technology is used all day every day, it’s nice to take a break from that and play a fun, competitive game with friends. Students playing chess can improve educational skills such as patience, concentration, and problem-solving. Various studies have shown that chess heightens academic ability. Children can also strengthen life skills through chess, such as learning from mistakes, considering consequences, thinking ahead, and building confidence.

Between the anxiety of other sports and academic groups, chess shows to be a good balance to make friends without as much stress. When playing chess, no individual player has a specific advantage over others; it’s a game that allows everyone to be equal regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or socioeconomic status. Chess clubs allow the students to play and become friends with various kids from all grades.

LHS has a chess club that meets every Thursday in Mr. Heslep’s room right after school. Senior Veruca Jouriles says this club has helped her to connect with students from other grades and take a break from schoolwork while still stimulating her brain.