While our chess regulars returned in 2022, we welcomed an enthusiastic group of new students to our club this year. The aim each Friday was for students to come along and enjoy social, competitive chess. Over time many members were brave enough to step away from their peer group and play chess against new members of our club and many surprised themselves with their improvement in play.

In Term 3 our club participated in the Interschool Chess Challenge Heat held at Central Coast Grammar School. The day is organised and run by the Sydney Chess Academy and all members of our club participated on the day.

Competition comprised of club members playing 7 games in a ‘Swiss’ competition. All players were seeded based on their results during the day; which meant players were competing against players from other schools of comparable ability.

While individual results for players were recorded, school placings at the end of the day would determine which schools would advance to the semi finals to be held late Term 3.

At lunch St Edward’s was fifth on results to that point of the competition, however after lunch members bought their “A” game and our club finished third in the High School division. This meant we would participate in a semi-final in late August.

Unfortunately, COVID reared its head as I tested positive on the evening before the tournament so at late notice we had to withdraw from the semi-final. While I know students were disappointed, I was touched by their concern for me and my health.

Our next tournament is in Term 4; participating in a local competition here on the Coast.

Mr Richard Massey
Club Coordinator