North East Chess Academy

The Mastrick Community Centre has added an exciting new feature to its roster of activities: a local chess club aimed at enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. The club, which held its inaugural meeting on the 7th October, is quickly becoming a favourite gathering spot for chess lovers in the area.

Organised by a couple of local experts, the North East Chess Academy meets every Tuesday evening from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The club’s mission is to foster a welcoming environment where members can learn, play, and enjoy the timeless game of kings. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, the club offers something for everyone.

Sean Gordon, the club’s founding member, expressed his excitement about the initiative. “This has been planned for a while, and it’s fantastic to finally see it come to life. Chess is such a wonderful game—it teaches strategy, patience, and critical thinking.

We wanted to create a space where people could come together, have fun, and improve their skills,” he said.

The first meeting saw a diverse turnout, with players ranging from young children eager to learn the basics to retirees who’ve played for decades. The evening kicked off with a brief introduction to the club, followed by a series of friendly matches. The atmosphere was lively, with participants exchanging tips and strategies in between games.

The club plans to host a variety of events in the coming months, including workshops, themed game nights, and even local tournaments. This will include an annual championship, open to all members. There are also discussions about inviting guest speakers, such as experienced players and coaches, to share their knowledge with members.

“We’re really focused on building a community,” said Sean. “It’s not just about the game—it’s about bringing people together. We’re looking forward to seeing the club grow and to making new friends along the way.”

The North East Chess Academy is open to everyone, and no prior experience is necessary. There’s a nominal membership fee to help cover the costs of the venue and materials, but the club is committed to being accessible to all. The community centre has provided a fantastic space for the meetings, complete with plenty of tables, chairs, and chess sets.

For those interested in joining, the club encourages you to drop by during one of their Tuesday sessions. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or simply want to enjoy a game with new friends, the North East Chess Academy is the perfect place to indulge your passion for chess.

To learn more about the club, you can contact the Mastrick Community Centre directly or visit the academy’s website for updates and announcements.

The organisers are eager to welcome new members and hope to see the club become a staple of the local community.

Come check it out, and we’ll see you on the board!