Chess: a Getaway & a Gateway
You don’t have to be a grandmaster to enjoy the tactical, creative, and beautiful game of chess! In honor of International Chess Day, just celebrated on July 20th, register for one of Grupology’s chess classes debuting this fall. We’re offering expert coaching from our celebrated chess champion and mentor, Coach Andrew Schley. Players at all levels are welcome.
To those who appreciate the world of kings, queens, bishops, knights, rooks and pawns—see Coach Andrew’s inspiring story below:
Coach Andrew Schley
As a kid growing up in rural Wisconsin, I didn’t see chess as an academic activity. It was art! I could immerse myself in a different world. It was a getaway from routine and a gateway to opportunity! Everyone needs an outlet, whether it’s sports, books, video games, art… You ask, “How can chess be art?” Once you master how the pieces move, the interaction on the board becomes a creative dance. I realized I had to make the pieces work together while simultaneously out-maneuvering my opponent. After getting through the typical opening moves, every game has its own distinct choreography and becomes its own unique experience.
Chess provided both a mental and physical escape. During my scholastic chess career, I traveled all over the country participating in national competitions. Win, lose, or draw, I always walked away with incredible memories. Capturing a few national titles was pretty cool too!
When you genuinely love something and devote yourself to it, you’ll be rewarded ten-fold when you least expect it! Chess has proven this. In my wildest dreams, I never imagined that chess would become a teaching career! This artistic pursuit has allowed me to impact the lives of so many students over the years. As early as 13, I began to develop my teaching skills at a summer school chess camp. Although my professional life took some twists and turns away from chess, I inevitably returned to it through the International Academy of Chess (IAC)—and I haven’t looked back! At one point, I ran my own chess school in Milwaukee and organized statewide events in Wisconsin. Where will my next move lead me?
