On April 5th, 2023, the weeks-long voyage of competition that 30+ students undertook came to a front — the Chess Club’s chess tournament held its final round, in which eight participants battled each other for the title of champion. Sophomore Audrey Wan (pictured) reigned supreme, winning the final game against Aaron Bellm (’25) and taking home a massive king-shaped trophy. The Bell editors Rebecca Cole and Emmett Brewer spoke with a few of St. Stephen’s own chess players to understand their perspective on the (over 1000 years old) game.

Q. Do you think chess offers any intellectual benefits? How so?

Felix Eugene (’25) enjoys the “creativity, memory, and organization” that chess has to offer, but he noted that it is “not as good as Go,” which strengthens “memory and pattern recognition.” Kevin Li (’25) noted how the game “improves critical thinking and problem solving skills,” with these improving his day-to-day life with better pattern recognition. Kevin also recalls that some of the most experienced chess players will often burn calories by the thousands when playing the game at such a high level. Ben Patrick (’25) appreciates chess because “it allows you to think in different ways and think ahead.” He also noted that it helps with visualization and can be a challenge depending on the game.

Q. Has chess offered any socialization opportunities for you?

Through chess, Ben and Felix have “got to know new people,” both in school and online. Ben also enjoys how chess connects his friend group because “all of [his] friends play chess.” Kevin agrees with this sentiment — he has had unique and memorable experiences with a variety of his St. Stephen’s peers through playing this game.

Q. Do you think chess is fun? Why?

Felix loves that “you can sit down at the chessboard and play a different game every single time.” Ben also appreciates the complex and constantly evolving nature of chess: “I think chess is fun because it never gets boring.” Kevin says that the competitiveness of the game grants this game a new dimension of entertainment.

Q. Advertise chess like you’re sponsoring something in a YouTube video. Go!

Ben, in a sort of joking mood, said “Play chess! It will take valuable hours out of your life, but also play chess. I love chess, and it’s the greatest thing that has happened in my life.” Kevin proposed: “It’s fun. You’ll be smarter. You’ll never waste so much time in your life.”