Making a winning move for youth

Richmond’s Logan Priest started a chess club to find competitors. Today, he leads the way in creating future ones.

The Impact Chess Club meets Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., at 717 S. Fifth St. in Richmond, to nurture young chess players. 

Priest, an Indiana University informatics student, learned chess from his grandfather at an early age. By middle school, he became more committed after the hit Netflix series “The Queen’s Gambit.” Soon, Priest was honing his skills by playing online.

“One day I checked my stats and it turned out I was pretty good, so I was like, ‘I want to start competing in tournaments.’” 

He traveled to tourneys in Indiana and Ohio and had several first place wins. He earned a 1600 rating by the United States Chess Federation, which indicates an above-average level of playing skill. 

Priest started the club to bring competitive play closer to home. But as time went on, Priest’s motivations changed to sharing his love for chess with others. 

“Now, I love to do it to give back to the community,” Priest said. 

Alexander Harrick joined the club three years ago following his friend, Walt Brazil. Harrick said he enjoys the game’s experience — the highs and lows — and getting a little better each time.

Vinny Li said he likes playing with his friends after school. And Gus Elliott’s favorite part of the club is playing and losing against Li.  

Richmond’s Xavier Ogle assists Logan with the club. After first playing at the Boys & Girls Club, his love for the game returned as a sophomore in high school. 

“I’ve been playing this guy [Logan] ever since,” Ogle said. 

During the summer, the club offers a weeklong chess camp. Priest saw its initial 12 students grow to 21 last year. This June, 35 kids from kindergarten to eighth grade filled First English Lutheran Church, 2727 E. Main St., Richmond. The students improved their chess skills and appreciation for learning beyond the chessboard. 

“Nothing makes me happier than to see these kids come in every day and have fun and show that they’re learning from people,” said Priest. 

Due to repairs, the club is temporarily meeting at Greater Second Church, 1371 N. G St., Richmond. For more information, email loganthomaspriest@gmail.com or follow the club’s social media page at facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559035472455.