The Normal West Chess Team has enjoyed recent success, including placing first at their home tournament for both the Varsity and Junior Varsity team.

The varsity team of Joseph Kessinger (12) Jacob Davis (9) Clayton Davis (12) Bekah Nielsen (12) Sawyer Price (12 ) and Austin Schillage (11) claimed victory at the West tournament and hope to continue their winning streak by claiming sectional champs for the second year in a row.

The team is made up of 19 members including team captain, Joseph Kessinger (12), who said, “My goal this year is to make it into the top 5 at state”.

Normal West’s Chess Team’s victories are no shock. The team is devoted and practices every Tuesday night after school and on Thursdays that aren’t occupied with tournaments. Not only does their hard work and dedication make them a strong team, but the environment they create. “What I enjoy most about being on the team is that everyone gets along and no one is excluded from the group,” junior Austin Schillage said.

This team appears to be close knit, which could be the reason for their success as a team.

“The thing I enjoy most about being on the chess team is traveling together and spending time with my friends,” said JV member Owen Lowe (9).

Math teacher Mrs.Kafer is the coach who truly believes in the ability of her team. Kafer discusses their previous successes and hopes for more. “Being the sectional champs from last year with most of the team returning, we would definitely like to keep that title, especially since we will be hosting and continue to the state championship in Peoria in February.”

The Normal West Chess Team will continue their season, planning to bring more trophies home. The kings and queens of the chess team will surely be staying on the grid this year!