Checkmate: Chess team continues its winning ways

By Kaydein McCall

Editorial Assistant

A few weeks ago, the Crete-Monee chess team competed in the Upstate 8 Tournament. The Warriors won their first three matches, going 68-0, 45-23, and 51-17. The Warriors ultimately placed third after losing to the undefeated Benet Academy. During their matches, Sophomore Kambria Cook got a perfect 4-0, and Ethan Lawrence also got a 3-1.

The CMHS chess team placed third in the Upstate 8 Tournament this year. Photo by Mrs. Rodriguez.

The chess team will soon be moving on to sectionals and attempting to make it to state for the tenth year in a row.

“I am most proud of my players’ resilience and willingness to learn from their mistakes. As individuals, the players will win some matches and lose some matches. It can be tough on the players. But our team has gone to lots of tournaments in order to build our perseverance and develop grit in the face of failure,” Coach Noble said.

Every player of the chess team showed strong skills, with everyone winning at least two of their matches.

“I guess we could have practiced more. I know a lot of people who don't practice; they just play, but they’re good, so it works out,” Junior Oliver Hanten said.

Coach Noble’s teaching style was a big factor in the Warriors' placement in the tournament.

“I don't recommend to my players to play any one style. My coaching focuses on helping players get better at whichever techniques they prefer and be prepared for the most effective counters to their openings. During tournaments, we analyze their games and look for moves that were mistakes and gave their opponents a chance to take the lead in the game,” Noble said.

In chess, thinking ahead is the difference between winning and losing your match; the ability to predict the opponent's moves makes all the difference in a match.

“You got to think at least like seven moves ahead for what your opponent’s going to do. You think about your opponent rather than yourself,” Hanten said.

The Warriors had their best finish of the year, putting them on track for a strong performance this year. With sectionals on the way, it’s giving the players a chance to prove their capabilities.

“The players know that while their matches may not go the way they want, their teammates will support them and always play their best. Every player takes every match seriously, and they will battle until the final move, which motivates each of them to always be at their best,” Noble said.