By: Patricia Sanborn
The Central Varsity Chess Team participated in the state chess competition on the 14th of February and managed to place 119th out of 146 teams. The team’s final score was 2-5 in a grueling battle in which Central unfortunately lost. The team’s top players leading the team this season were Gavin Benett and Luis Villagomez with scores of 4-2 and 5-2. All participants worked very hard to achieve a better placement this year but were sadly unsuccessful. Though the team did not take the trophy home, they plan to train harder and work on their strategies for next year’s tournament. The rest of the team ended with the following scores in order of wins-loses-draws; Aaron Davila: 1-4-1, Mozzel Rodriguez: 2-2-0, Julian Silas: 2-3-2, Jeremy Overcash: 2-2-0, Ariana Contreras: 1-2-0, Jackie Aguilera: 1-2-0, Jasmine Camargo: 1-2-0, Wendy Casillas: 0-2-0, and Alma Barcenas: 0-2-0. The team was not entirely happy with their placement but also were pleased with the experience they got to have at the tournament. Varsity will sadly not be moving on in the competition but will luckily be continuing with regular chess club in room 365.
The coaches, Mr. Coatney and Mr. Medina, along with the team, extend the offer to any willing participants for the chance to learn to play chess. The offer is also open to anyone wanting to further their previous chess skills by learning new strategies or wanting to play one on one games against other students. Chess club lasts until 4:30pm every Wednesday and all are accepted. Those who join are welcome to also help support the chess team by purchasing some chess team gear or buying some healthy snacks for the fundraiser. The chess team will continue to work hard while having fun and push for a higher ranking and overall score next school year.