It’s your move, Manitouwadge! There’s a new chess club in town

MANITOUWADGE -- When Bryce Dube offered to host a Chess Club at the Manitouwadge public library, he didn’t know what kind of response he’d get; he was hoping to meet a few people who were interested in playing or even a few who just wanted to learn the rules of the game.

To his surprise, within minutes of the doors opening on Monday evening, more than two dozen wannabe chess Grandmasters of all ages took over every board the library had set up, with more eager players waiting for their turn to ‘check their mates’ and claim victory. They even had to open the upstairs level for more space.

“This exceeds all my expectations,” beamed Bryce, who competes online with the Chess Federation of Canada. “It’s great to see so many people come out to join a new club in town.”

At each board, the players faced off against each other, while their friends and family members crowded around them, offering assistance and encouragement to those who were unfamiliar with the game. It was interesting to watch children as young as eight explaining to the older kids, and even to some adults, how the different chess pieces were allowed to move, giving advice on strategy and whispering the occasional prompt as to how to corner their opponent into check.

“It’s great to see so many people interested in the game, especially the young people,” Bryce said. “Chess teaches excellent analytical and critical thinking skills that they’ll use later in life. It’s very important for mental development. And it’s fun!”

This is just one of the many activities held at the Manitouwadge Public Library. Check out their website, or their Facebook page for more fun things to do.

The Chess club will meet every Monday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. All levels of experience are welcome.