The online season for the Chess Club has started and the reaction throughout the team is varying. The team will now see if they have prepped members new and old for the new season and if they can win this year.

“I think we have a lot more members and we have a lot more experience than we did last year. So I think we have a very good shot of getting first this year,” returning member Gabriel Santiago said.

Santiago has been a top member for 2 years and knows the challenges and eases of both online and over the board.

“Definitely not knowing if the other is being legitimate, you know online you can always cheat. So that’s an issue we look out for,” Santiago said.

Santiago went to Challenge High School in Columbia last year for the State Tournament.

“You know I do think playing over the board provides a better experience, it’s definitely very fun. Going to these events is just an amazing experience. But online is also very convenient you can play anywhere. I think a mix of both is best,” Santiago said. 

Santiago and members alike know that cheating is something that they may run into online and something that hasn’t been an issue over the board.

“I’m just used to playing more physically I guess, but looking at the screen does help,” new member Eva Diaz said.

Diaz’s past experiences with chess were only over the board so playing online will be a first for her.

“I don’t think I’ve competed ever, maybe once I was in 3rd grade,” Diaz said.

New members like Diaz have been getting prepped for this season.

“I definitely learned a lot about openings because I didn’t know anything about openings and I just did random things,” Diaz said.

Diaz and new members we’re introduced to tactics and other methods used in the games.

“I definitely learned a lot about openings because I didn’t know anything about openings and I just did random things,” Diaz said.

The club wants to remind members that not everyone in the group is competing. At the end of the day, it’s all about a passion for chess.

“You don’t have to compete in chess, but I’d suggest trying it out by playing a match or two over the weekend, maybe with your family,” Santiago said.