A lot of people say that chess isn’t an actual sport for completely valid reasons. However, if you look at the statistics, the chess team at Brooks has one of the highest win rates of any team at Brooks. The Brooks Chess team is an anomaly. Chess is a game that requires high amounts of concentration and critical thinking, traits which EVERY current member of the team possesses to a high degree. In order to showcase the achievements and potential of the Brooks Chess Team, here is a complete analysis of the team, comprised of all the best staff and players.

David Perez - Captain, Senior

David Perez is a senior at Brooks, currently rated a 1200 in Blitz (3-5 minutes per player), 1380 in rapid (10+ minutes per player), and 1200 in bullet games (1-2 minutes per player). Currently, he holds the title of team captain. As a player, David is known for having a cold, calculating stance throughout the entire game,e meticulously planning each move. When David is serious about a game, he puts on his glasses. His favorite opening is the Vienna, and he has been playing for 9 years.

Chase Jones - Co-captain, Junior

Chase Jones (literally me) is the captain of the Brooks Chess team. Since 4th grade, I have acquired a rating of 1,000 in blitz, 1,000 in bullet, and 1500 in Rapid, with my highest rating being 1700. I would describe my style of chess as very calm, but I can play rapidly in some situations. My favorite openings are the Sicilian Defense for black and the London System for white. 

Chidi Ireaja - Co-Captain, Junior

Chidi Ireaja is a Junior who joined the team during freshman year. Previously, he played chess recreationally. Since he joined the team, Chidi has made a name for himself as the most analytical player on the team. Chidi's games have been recognized for their continuous brilliant moves, and he recently amassed a rating of 1600 rapid, according to Chess.com. Chidi is also a master at Bughouse. (Bughouse is played with four people, and allows you to place pieces that your partner has captured on your board). His favorite opening is the Vienna Gambit.

Kendall SHepherd - Junior

Kendall Shepard is a junior who has been on the Brooks Chess Team since 7th grade. In addition to chess, he's also a member of the varsity basketball team here. Kendall has made a reputation as a player who moves rapidly on the board: he makes quick decisive moves, which always leave his opponents in awe.  His inspirational self confidence always brings light to the team and increases the energy. His favorite opening is the French Defense. 
The Brooks chess team also features an assortment of other great players, such as Isabella Garza, Melissa De Loera, Mark Rodriguez, Saul Lopez, Devin Funches, Cesar Morales, Heaven Buckner, Diego Rocha, Reginald Burke, Amir Nesbeth, Matthew Narain, and Marcos Perez.

The Chess Team recently advanced to the State Championship after the IHSA Sectional on January 28th. We hope to see more success from the Brooks Chess Team soon!

Chase Jones