Chess team places fifth at IHSA State Tournament with 6-1 record

February 18, 2024

Rows of students compete in the state tournament. (courtesy of Keith Holzmueller)

The ETHS chess team is no stranger to success. From placing sixth in the 2023 National High School Championship in Washington D.C. to taking fifth place at state this year, the team has seen many victories at high levels. This year, the IHSA state tournament was held in Peoria and took place on Feb. 9 and 10. The ETHS team finished with six wins and one loss.

“I was very pleased that we had a lot of new players. Most of the team had never been to a state tournament before and so for us to go six and one, only losing to the team that eventually tied for first place, I thought it was outstanding,” said head coach Keith Holzmueller. “I think we have [an] efficient top five with so many new players, which was fantastic.”

The chess team poses with the fifth place trophy after the tournament. (courtesy of Keith Holzmueller)

Going into this year, the chess team had reduced numbers, as eight of their 12 competitors graduated last year. As a result, the team had to work especially hard to maintain their reputation in the chess community. This year, they had five new starting players, and eight total new members, all contributing to a strong team community.

“We had ups and downs throughout the season but stayed strong through tough tournaments. I am very proud of everyone working consistently to improve all season,” said Chris Von Hoff, one of the senior captains on the team. “Everyone on the team becomes such great friends and often hang out with each other outside of tournaments and practices.”

Competitive chess matches can take hours to complete, with complicated rules and a timing system keeping players on their toes. The team meets in a school cafeteria to practice, using the time to compete against each other and hone in their game. Whether playing competitively or for fun, players start practicing with a clock and move recording.

“The team atmosphere and great people I met on the chess team really drew me to play chess and encouraged me to play more,” said senior and team captain Jonah Chen. “The chess team is a great and fun community, and you are guaranteed to make new friends there.”

ETHS doesn’t only have a competitive team, but a chess club as well. Both groups are always looking for new students that are interested in learning about the game of chess.

The team plans on competing in nationals once again this year, which will take place in early April.