By Anatole Tahintzi, Year 12
Chess has experienced a significant rise in popularity in recent years. Initially driven by the popular Netflix show The Queen’s Gambit, Chess has seen a further resurgence in popularity in recent months. One of the main drivers of the popularity of chess in recent years has been the growth of online chess platforms such as Chess.com and Lichess, which offer players the opportunity to play against opponents from around the world at any time of the day. These platforms also offer a range of features, including puzzles, training exercises, and live streaming of major chess tournaments, which have helped to make chess more accessible and engaging for a wider audience. The key factor contributing to the resurgence of chess in recent months has been the emergence of chess influencers and content creators on social media platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and TikTok. These individuals have used their platforms to showcase their skills, offer tips and advice for improving one’s game, and provide entertaining commentary on major chess events. Moreover, the popularity of chess has also been driven by several high-profile events and tournaments, including the World Chess Championship, the Speed Chess Championship, and notably the PogChamps tournaments, which feature popular online personalities and streamers playing chess against each other. Our school itself has also been hit by this surge in the popularity of chess. This year, three Year 12 students founded the LGB Chess Society, where students(and teachers) passionate about chess meet every Wednesday during morning break in room SA302. To further understand the rise of chess at LGB, here are the perspectives of some Year 12 students:
Ruben Chung, member of the chess society
When did you first become interested in chess and how did you first learn to play chess?
As a child, my parents introduced me to the game of chess and taught me the fundamentals. However, it wasn’t until the beginning of this year that I became a regular player and developed a true passion for the game.
Do you think the popularity of chess has increased in our school recently, and what do you think is driving the increased interest in chess at our school?
I believe that the surge in the popularity of chess within our academic institution has been remarkable, as it has progressed from individuals engaging in the game during class to active participation in the chess club. This year, a significant proportion of the student population has taken up the game. This trend, however, is not an exception to our school, as the game of chess has attained its peak of popularity across the globe. I think this can be attributed to the amount of chess content circulating throughout various social media platforms, namely TikTok and Instagram Reels, which has managed to hook people and spark an interest for chess in them. Additionally, as with many school trends, once a small group of individuals begin playing, their classmates and friends will follow, thereby propelling the game’s popularity very rapidly.
Aleksander Mikosz, co-founder and co-leader of the chess society
How has the school reacted to the rise in popularity of chess?
Initially, the only evident sign of the surge in chess’s popularity was the increase in the number of people playing the game, both at home and during break and lunchtime. Over time, people gradually started following the world of chess, including events such as the Chess Blitz World Championship. We observed this rise in popularity and, as two chess enthusiasts, decided to establish a club that would unite all those interested in the game.
What events or activities has the chess society organised to promote the game of chess at our school?
Originally, we had planned to establish a chess club tournament, but we abandoned the idea after realising that students sometimes have exams or tests and may not be able to attend the club. Instead, we decided that our club meetings will start with a five-minute lesson of chess theory, followed by members being free to play games against whomever they wish. Additionally, new players are always welcome to approach us for advice and tips to enhance their chess skills. Recently, our chess club also hosted a great game, pitting Year 12 student Taari Chandaria against Math teacher Mr Bracquiné. The game proved to be a huge success, with over twenty individuals coming to witness the event. The players chose to adjourn(stop and continue at a later date), and the match will continue at our next meeting this week.
How has the chess society grown since its founding?
The chess society has maintained a consistent level of members since its founding. From our first meeting, we have had an average attendance of 20-25 members each week. We aspire to increase our membership throughout the year and anticipate that future leaders will continue this trend next year, further expanding the society.
James Menoud, co-founder and co-leader of the chess society
Do you think the rise of chess in popularity at our school is part of a broader trend in the popularity of board games?
I do not believe that the surge in chess’s popularity is part of a trend in board games because, currently, chess is the only game experiencing a significant rise in popularity. There is no corresponding increase in demand for other board games, such as Monopoly, or clubs for them either. Instead, I believe that the recent explosion in chess’s popularity is due to the growing number of YouTubers and streamers playing and covering the game, thereby increasing its exposure. Moreover, I also think that the release of the highly acclaimed Netflix series “The Queen’s Gambit” has been a catalyst in expanding the game’s reach.
How can we continue to promote and grow the game of chess at our school?
I believe that the Chess Society’s inclusion in the LGB Express is another significant step in the right direction, as it encourages individuals of all skill levels to join the society and enjoy a dedicated time each week to learn and play chess with like-minded peers.
Taari Chandaria, member of the chess society
What do you think are some of the benefits of playing chess?
I believe one of the key benefits of chess is the act of practising intense extended concentration. Playing chess demands 100% of your focus, as any lapse of judgement can immediately put you on the back for or even lose you the game. You learn to be constantly aware and careful. Another benefit is the social one. Chess is a great activity to play with friends, as evidenced by our school chess club’s success.
How can we continue to promote and grow the game of chess at our school?
I believe a great way to promote and grow chess at our school would be to organise a school-wide competitive over-the-board tournament. This would attract many new players, as well as push current players to new limits, attempting to master theory and openings in a similar way to professionals. It would also be nice to continue seeing teachers get involved in our school’s chess club, to help create a greater sense of community around chess within the school.
In conclusion, the popularity of chess has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend has been mirrored in our school, which now has a thriving Chess Society. The growth of online chess platforms and the emergence of chess influencers on social media have made the game more accessible and engaging for a wider audience, and high-profile events and tournaments have raised the game’s profile further. At our school, the Chess Society has been successful in promoting the game, offering regular meetings and even organising events with teachers. The society hopes to continue expanding its membership and encouraging more individuals to discover the joy of playing chess. The rise of chess is not just a trend in board games, but a reflection of the growing exposure and interest in this timeless game.
