Despite massive budget cuts, the school has launched a new club: The Chess Club.
Started by student teacher Phillip Nguyen, the Chess Club meets on Mondays after school in room B-115 (Math teacher Vernon Burden’s room).
Senior club member Tamara Green said, “If you really like playing games where you think critically, chess is the place to go.”
Green said she had been playing since the fifth grade and playing is a great experience for her.
Another member, senior Kelli Walker, said, “I joined to learn how to play chess.”
“The object of the strategic game,” said Nguyen, “is to capture your opponent’s king.” Each type of chess piece moves in a different direction. Some move diagonally while others move in straight lines.
At the meetings, Nguyen teaches chess terminology. He supplies the chess boards, and members pair up to play.
So far, freshman Alexander Mays is the school’s chess champion, but that could change, Nguyen says.
There was once a chess club at SHS several years ago that was run by science teacher Bruce Shepard. Shepard said the club died out for lack of interest, but he’s glad to hear it has been reborn.
Nguyen said he’s pleased to leave a legacy at Southfield High after he finishes his student teaching this semester. “I like the experience and the students that are there and the environment- friendly place where people get good at chess.”
Nguyen said the club has 10 members, and other interested students are encouraged to join.