The Opening

It's no surprise to me that I have found myself in the position I am in. I have a had a deep love for chess as far back as I can remember, even before I knew how to play. I think that most boys see the majestic figures on their battlefield and conjure up romantic and epic visions of armies vying for the prize, whatever they imagine that to be. So here I sit, with the burden squarely upon my shoulders of introducing a fluctuating number of between 2 and 20 children in San Angelo, Texas to the ancient game of chess.

Having moved here about a year ago, I intended on starting a chess club at my son's elementary school. However, other matters interposed. After transferring him to Fort Concho Elementary, primarily to take advantage of a smaller student-teacher ratio, I saw that there was already a chess club in place. I quickly volunteered to "assist" as needed. However, a turn of events would soon require me to replace the librarian, Mr. Erickson, who suffered an accident that has prevented his involvement, much to everyone's dismay.

So, with those big shoes to fill, I reached out to the Parent Teacher Organization and asked for new materials. The treasurer, Mr. Young, responded and got me exactly what I asked for: 10 regulation boards with weighted pieces and double queens, digital chess clocks, and a demonstration board. With that excuse no longer valid, I began teaching them what I know of the game. This included the basic rules, setup of the board, names and movement of the pieces, castling, and so on. The kids quickly surpassed my expectations and began to ask for more. So, we have moved on to pins, forks, skewers, blockades, and batteries.

Then, I was asked by Anthony, one of my 2nd graders, when they would get the opportunity to play against other schools. As far as I know, there are no other scholastic clubs in the city. The San Angelo Chess Club is no longer active, as best I can tell. I've heard that there is a club at Angelo State University, but have yet to contact them for support. The biggest sponsor we have had to date has been the principal, Mrs. Lori Barton. I've met quite a few school administrators over the years, but very few have the drive and leadership this woman has shown on her campus. It's made any doubts that I had about transferring my son here completely vanish.

With her help, and their own initiative, our ROOKies will be competing in the Region IX Scholastic Tournament on January 9 in Midland, Tx. I am excited. The cost may be prohibitive for some. However, we are looking into getting sponsors for the US Chess Federation dues and the registration fees. Being involved with a Title I school can bring a quick dose of reality when you come to understand the environment some of these children grow up in.

So here's to my ROOKies! May you fight for the center and be noble in victory.