ACS Chess
Last week, students from Years 7–11 represented the College at the interschool chess tournament. The event provided students with the opportunity to compete against players from a range of schools and experience the challenge and excitement of tournament chess.
One of the highlights of this year’s preparation was the strong participation across multiple year levels during our lunchtime chess club and selection games. Students played a wide variety of opponents, often across year levels, helping to build both confidence and a positive competitive culture within the club. It was particularly encouraging to see newer and less experienced players willing to challenge stronger opponents and continue improving throughout the term.
The team also improved on last year’s overall result, increasing the school’s total score from 18.5 points to 20.5 points across the tournament. There was also a particularly strong showing from our Year 7 students, several of whom performed extremely well despite competing against older and more experienced opponents.
Congratulations also to Angus Meisner, Elijah Su, Alex Kolarik, Alex Pham and Nile Yoon, who were the College’s highest individual scorers with 3.5 points from 7 rounds.
For many students, the tournament was not only about results, but also about learning to manage time pressure, recover from mistakes, and think strategically under competitive conditions. These experiences are an important part of developing resilience, concentration, and sportsmanship.
Thank you to all students who participated in the club, attended trials, and represented the College so enthusiastically. We look forward to continuing to grow the chess program and welcoming even more students from different year levels to future events.
Damien Blomeley