On Wednesday 6 May, the Shearwater chess team travelled to Murwillumbah High School to compete in the second round of the NSW Junior Chess League Secondary Schools Competition. Facing a strong senior team in a lively room full of Murwillumbah supporters, our students rose to the challenge in a series of best‑of‑three matches across five boards.

Finley (Year 11) secured a well-earned 2–1 result on Board 1, showing patience and determination, while Alon (Year 10) maintained consistent focus on Board 2, winning his two games. On Board 3, Lev (Year 8) approached each game thoughtfully in a closely contested match, finishing 1–2. Taito (Year 9) demonstrated perseverance, particularly in a very long opening game that required sustained concentration, before conceding both games. Atticus (Year 7) contributed strongly on Board 5 with a satisfying 2–1 win.

Overall, the team’s efforts resulted in a well-earned match victory, progressing Shearwater to Round 3 of the competition. The match highlighted the concentration, resilience and careful strategic thinking required in competitive chess.

Ana Chevalier
Shearwater Chess Club