Mahjong is having a moment. American mahjong, a version of the classic Chinese tile game, is attracting a new generation with its mix of strategy, skill, and opportunities to connect in person.
Among those young players are Decatur siblings Sidney Rose Weil, 12, and Lucas Weil, 8, who learned to play by watching their mother and grandmother. “Our grandmother taught us,” Sidney said. “She’s been playing for over 40 years, and we’ve been playing for about two years.”
Sidney and Lucas play mahjong with family members and other children their age. Although the game requires concentration, Sidney said it never feels exactly the same twice. “I think it’s fun to stretch your brain,” she said. “Each game is different. I love seeing the tiles. Playing as a team of two is super fun, too.” Sidney especially enjoys teaming up with her friend Mae Collins. “We like to be a team and dominate the grownups,” she said.
The Weil family is part of a larger community of mahjong players in Decatur. Sidney’s mother, aunt, and grandmother often host games, while local groups give adults opportunities to learn and play throughout the city.
Vicki Figiel of the Decatur Mahjong Social Club said interest in the game has increased, and the club has grown to more than 100 members in just over a year. Members say the appeal goes beyond the game itself. “It’s an avenue to meet new people and make new friends,” member Susan Hill says. Figiel said she isn’t aware of any formal mahjong clubs for children in the area, although several members play at home with their children and grandchildren.
Sidney hopes to create a neighborhood mahjong club for kids who already play, as well as those who want to learn. “I definitely recommend learning mahjong because it’s a good brain game,” Sidney said. “You have to think really hard. Plus, it’s fun to win.”
To learn more about the Decatur Mahjong Social Club, visit decaturmahj.com.