Every Monday students from every grade at Springfield Plains Elementary gather to share their love of chess.
In its second season, the chess club was started by Cathy Schlaff, a mother of four, after thinking about what the game of chess could bring elementary students.
‘I wanted something that challenged them intellectually. I wanted to give them an opportunity to use their brains,? she said. ‘All of my kids and my family play, so I wanted to share that.?
When Schlaff brought up the idea to Springfield Plains administration, she said she was greeted with nothing but support for the program. Parents of students in the club have donated the chess sets and the school lets the club use a room every Monday after school.
Students of all ages are welcome to join the club, though there is a waiting list because of the club’s popularity. Of the 20 or so members, there six 5th graders , seven 4th graders, one in 3rd grade, five in second grade and two in kindergarten.
‘I try to match them up equally so that we don’t end up with a 5th grader playing a kindergartner,? said Schlaff.
‘I wanted to join last year, but couldn’t because there were too many people,? said fourth-grader James Blazevic. ‘I wanted to try my talents in chess, and now it seems that I’m not too good. But it’s fun and we get to learn something new all the time.?
Every week there is a new schedule of players so that each member gets a chance to play a variety of other players.
All four of Schlaff’s children take part in one way or another with the club. All three of her children who attend Springfield Plains play in the club and her older son, A.J., is her assistant coach.
‘My mom’s the coach, and it makes it fun,? said Jonathon Schlaff, a second-grader. ‘It’s fun because I get to play it a lot at home and here.?
Max Caine, who is in second grade, shares Jonathon Schlaff’s sentiments.
‘I like to play chess because instead of doing computer stuff all day long, we can play with family and friends.?
Because of the success of the club and the support of the school and parents, the chess club will host its second tournament on March 19 at 4:30 p.m. at Springfield Pines. Both Pine Knob Elementary and St. Joseph of Lake Orion will come to play.
For more information about the chess club, or for information about starting your own chess club, call Cathy Schlaff at 248-620-2321.