Henderson Chess Team to Nationals

Over the past few years our team has shown tremendous strides in becoming a dominating chess team. Since the team’s inception in 2013, the team has represented Henderson Middle School in state tournaments very well. In 2013, we took six students to the Texas state tournament and returned home as State Champions. In 2015, we were able to raise enough money to take nine students to the State tournament in McAllen, TX. and again we came back victorious. Only a month later, and after rigorous fund-raising we were able to make enough money to compete in the Natonal tournament hosted in Louisville, Kentucky. The team did not disappoint and earned 1st place in the unrated secton at the Natonal tournament. Our students played against private schools and public schools from all over the country and were able to compete at a very high level. In 2016, we earned 1st place in the Novice and Junior Varsity Division in the State tournament in Brownsville, Texas. We were able to compete in the National tournament in Indianapolis earning a 1st place under 750 ratng and 3rd place under 900 ratng. This year the team won 1st place in the Novice, 1st place in the JV and 4th Place in Championship. As well as getting The Champions of the North Central in the Middle School Division, bringing back a total of 29 TROPIES! The amount of focus that is required in this game is not only seen through the results of these tournaments, but it is also observed in the classroom. Chess makes children smarter. It does so by teaching the following: focus, visualization, critical thinking, weighing options, analyzing, thinking abstractly, planning and multitasking strategies simultaneously. These skill sets are not specific to the game of chess but they are all part of the game. Chess stimulates the minds of children and helps them build these skills while enjoying a game. The value of chess for children may be much more than entertainment and amusement. In addition, we believe that everyone can play chess. As educators we are aware that not all children learn at the same rate and that some children may need something to help them focus. Our team includes children who do not function socially very well and who are in Special Education classes. Additionally, we have economically disadvantaged children. These students have found sanctuary while playing on our chess team. The opportunity of taking our entire chess team to the SuperNational Tournament in Nashville TN.  this May 11-16 , will be a dream come true for these children. We appreciate your support  so the Henderson Chess Team can respresent El Paso, in the SuperNational tournament l. Any donation is highly appreciated, thank you for your support!!