"Middle School Chess Club Advances to Regional Finals"
Middle School Chess Club Advances to Regional Finals
Excitement is in the air at Brookside Middle School as the school’s chess club has officially advanced to the Regional Finals following a strong performance at the district tournament last weekend. The club, made up of 14 dedicated students from grades 6 through 8, outplayed competitors from six other schools to secure their place in the next stage of competition.
Held at North Valley Middle School on Saturday, the district tournament brought together more than 70 student players. The Brookside team earned top marks in both individual and team categories, with standout performances from eighth-grader Amelia Tran and seventh-grader Elijah Robinson, who each went undefeated in five rounds of play.
Club advisor and math teacher Mr. Thomas Gray couldn’t be prouder. “This group has worked incredibly hard,” he said. “They practice twice a week after school and even meet up during lunch breaks. Advancing to the regionals is a huge accomplishment, and they’ve absolutely earned it.”
The Brookside Chess Club has been growing in popularity over the past few years, thanks in large part to the students’ enthusiasm and the school’s commitment to supporting extracurricular academic activities. What began as a small gathering of six students meeting in the library has now become one of the most active clubs at the school, with regular meetings, internal tournaments, and weekend matches against nearby schools.
For Amelia Tran, the club’s unofficial captain, chess is more than just a game—it’s a passion. “I love how every match is like a puzzle,” she said. “You have to think ahead, stay calm, and adapt to whatever your opponent throws at you. It’s taught me a lot about patience and planning.”
Parents and teachers alike have praised the club for fostering critical thinking, focus, and good sportsmanship. “It’s amazing to see these kids so engaged and respectful, even in competition,” said Principal Deborah Larson. “They’re learning skills that go far beyond the chessboard.”
The Regional Finals will be held in two weeks at Westwood Academy, a prestigious academic magnet school known for its elite chess program. The Brookside team is already preparing by analyzing past games, sharpening their opening strategies, and practicing time control techniques in rapid-format matches.
In the lead-up to regionals, the team is also planning a school-wide “Chess Spirit Week” to raise awareness and support. Activities will include lunchtime exhibition matches, beginner lessons for students and teachers, and a “Beat a Club Member” challenge where students can win small prizes for besting one of the team’s top players.