Chess is a fun and competitive game to play with others!

It also feeds and fuels problem solving instincts, promotes creativity and imagination, and develops logical thinking!

About the Club

The Chess Club is comprised of Saint James students representing Kindergarten through Grade 8 who gather weekly in the library after school to learn about playing and winning chess. The format consists of 35 minutes of formal instruction by master chess instructor John Surlow, followed by 35 minutes of “volunteer” supervised competition among students (paired by experience/skill level). For more information, call or email SJS parent liaison, Rosemary McNelis (412.766.0716 or rosemaryhmcnelis@verizon.net).

About the Chess Instructor

A former math and science teacher, Mr. John Surlow has taught chess for 13 years in public, private, and parochial schools in Western PA, as well in Los Angeles. A number of his schools and students have earned state and national chess awards. Mr. Surlow is a certified Senior Tournament Director with the United States Chess Federation and has directed more than 100 major scholastic tournaments including more than a dozen state championships. He serves on the Board of the Pittsburgh Chess Club and is a many-time delegate to USCF, the national chess organization.

SJS Participation in Local Tournaments

Chess club members are encouraged to participate in local chess competitions and share their tem experiences and progress with their teammates.

Catholic Schools Tournament, St. Louise de Marillac Elementary School, Pittsburgh, December 19, 2009

Representing SJS were Joseph and John Auth, Anthony, Austin, and Alexander Kuntz, Ryan McNelis, Bennet Pompi, Luca Stasa, and Charlie Veek. The day resulted with an outstanding showing of the team. Eighth-grader Anthony Kuntz and sixth-grader Austin Kuntz captured 2^nd and 5^th place trophies in the 5^th through 12^th grade beginner bracket division! The team placed fourth overall, beaten only by chess powerhouse, Providence Heights Alpha Elementary School, Central Catholic High School, and St. Kilian Elementary School, 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place, respectively.