Checkmate! The D-E 360° ACE (AfterCare & Enrichment) Chess Team had two players compete in the U.S. Chess Federation’s 2024 National K-12 Grade Championships in National Harbor, Maryland, from Dec. 6-8. Third grader Adam Y. ’34 and 11th grader Anna Radchenko ’26 exhibited great sportsmanship and represented D-E well, says Coach Mackenzie “Mac” Molner.
“In this tournament, participants only play other kids from their own grade level,” explains Coach Mac. “It’s a very difficult tournament, to say the least!”
“I loved meeting players from all over the country and challenging stronger opponents”
In the face of such tough competition, Adam scored 3.5 points out of 7 games and Anna scored 4 out of 7 games.
“I loved meeting players from all over the country and challenging stronger opponents,” says Adam. “I’m really proud of myself that I had a draw with a much higher-rated player and earned respect from him.” That game lasted an hour and a half, which was the longest game he’d ever played thus far.
Anna played in the K-12 tournament the previous year and returned in 2024. “I really enjoy these tournaments because in addition to having a great turnout, they provide an excellent opportunity to meet people your age,” she says. “After several games, my opponents and I reviewed our matches together, offering suggestions and feedback to help each other improve.”
“It’s exciting to see D-E students taking part in big events like this!” says Coach Mac. “We will build off of this and bring a whole team to the National Championships in May.”
To learn more about the Chess program, offered by D-E 360°, click here or reach out to Sharon Keigher, D-E 360° ACE Director of Programs, at keighs@d-e.org.
