In 2019, with a vision of helping kids through the game of chess, Sudev Rajah and his wife, Archana Kolangara, founded CHESS KLUB out of their home. Since then, the program has grown to encompass clubs in 5 cities with 8 centers.
What do you love about the game of chess?
I love chess for its blend of strategy, intellect, and creativity. It's a game that challenges players to think several steps ahead, anticipate their opponent's moves, and adapt their strategies in real-time.
The balance between offense and defense, the intricate maneuvers, and the endless possibilities on the board make each game unique and exciting.
Chess also has a rich history and a sense of tradition that adds depth to the experience. Whether it’s a casual game or a high-stakes tournament, chess offers a profound mental workout and a deep sense of satisfaction from mastering its complexities.
What do you enjoy about what you do through Chess Klub?
I enjoy the opportunity to promote the game of chess and make it accessible to a wide audience. It's rewarding to see people, especially young learners, develop critical thinking skills, patience, and strategic planning through chess.
The community aspect is also a highlight—bringing people together, fostering friendships, and creating a supportive environment for learning and competition. Organizing tournaments and events is exciting, as it brings out the best in players and creates memorable experiences. Overall, the blend of education, community, and the joy of the game itself makes working with Chess Klub deeply fulfilling.
What is the target age range for Klub members?
98% of our students are in the age range of 5 to 15 years.
How is playing chess beneficial for kids?
The kids make a lot of friends and develop a social circle. They also learn important life lessons while playing chess including developing patience, the power of short-term sacrifice for long-term benefit, and good versus bad trades. It’s a great way to exercise the brain because there is always something new to learn from chess.
What services, programs, and activities do you offer through CHESS KLUB?
Through Chess Klub, we offer a variety of services, programs, and activities to cater to chess enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. These offerings aim to nurture a passion for chess, enhance cognitive abilities, and create a supportive and inclusive chess-playing community.
- Coaching Classes: Personalized and group coaching sessions for beginners, intermediate, and advanced players to improve their skills and understanding of the game.
- Tournaments: Regularly organized USCF Rated chess tournaments for different skill levels, providing competitive opportunities and fostering a spirit of sportsmanship.
- Workshops: Special workshops led by chess masters and experts to delve into advanced strategies, historical games, and chess theory.
- Mentorship Program – Guide & mentor our students to help them take their game to the next level.
- Chess Camps: Intensive chess camps during school holidays, focusing on comprehensive skill development, including tactics, openings, middlegame, and endgame.
- After-School Programs: Structured programs in schools to introduce students to chess, enhance their problem-solving skills, and promote cognitive development.
- Community Events: Fun and engaging community events such as chess nights, chess in the park, chess carnival and themed chess parties to build a vibrant chess community.
- Online Chess Classes: Virtual coaching sessions and online tournaments to reach a wider audience and provide flexible learning options.
- Chess Clubs: Support in establishing and managing chess clubs in schools and communities, including providing resources and organizing inter-club matches.
- Chess Merchandise: Sale of chess-related products such as boards, pieces, books, and training materials to support players in their journey.
- Special Programs: Tailored programs for corporate teams, seniors, and special needs groups to use chess as a tool for team building, mental agility, and therapeutic benefits (This is yet to be finalized)
What would you love for readers to know?
A chess match between two minds requires a constant amount of attention and concentration, which triggers every neuron in the brain, making chess the key to nurturing a young mind. Chess is an art, science, and a sport. Chess is great for the mind & soul.
At CHESS KLUB, we're driven to redefine chess education for learners of all ages and abilities through the fusion of innovative teaching approaches, technology, personalized learning journeys and AI-driven insights while taking their personal experience of students to the next level.
For more information, visit chessklub.com or call (704) 248-6999. Also follow Chess Klub on Facebook and Instagram.
I love chess for its blend of strategy, intellect, and creativity.
Chess is an art, science, and a sport.