Chess Is One IHSA Activity That Has Continued By Going Virtual

By going virtual, chess is one after-school activity in Illinois that high schools have been allowed to continue.

During these difficult times, I try to stay as positive as possible, I avoid the negative stuff when I can. I apologize because I have to talk a little bit about the bad stuff before I can get to the good news.

There have been really sad things that have happened over the past several months. Though it is not life or death, I still feel really bad for the kids. Some of them might not be the best students in the world but going to school at home through the internet is less than ideal.

I think we are all starting to understand the importance of learning in-person. Not only is it about the studying but there is everything else that goes along with it. The social interaction is key. Plus, all of the extra activities and sports.

When I was in school it was pretty limited. Nowadays, there are events and clubs to fit the interests of just about any child willing to participate. I wish we had some of the options back in the day.

Unfortunately, most of them have been canceled, postponed, or changed. As time goes on,  more and more are going away. For some students, it is their last chance to enjoy and they are missing out. It really breaks my heart for them.

Believe it or not, there have been a few that have adapted, so they were able to continue. Most of them are not normally in the spotlight. This gives them the opportunity to get some extra attention which is good for those taking part in them.

According to shawlocal.com,

"Some of that is lost this year, but the best thing about high school chess is that it’s an activity that has proven to be COVID-19-proof. Member schools in the Northern Illinois Chess League have adapted and forged through their regular season part of the schedule, playing matches online instead of face-to-face. It’s much better than not being able to do it at all.”

Maybe, this will bring interest to the chess club and get more students interested in playing.

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