The competition of chess may seem like an unfathomable concept to understand. However, many overlook the simple truth: ultimately, the HT chess club is all about the friendships and connections that have flourished beyond the boundaries of the chessboard. 

Originally founded by HT graduate Jonathan Nunes and senior Luke Kenney, the chess club has been at Holy Trinity for the last two years. Chess club has continued to embrace all different experience levels and backgrounds of players. 

“Everyone is welcome,” junior Matthew Nunez said. “I have made good friends with people who have consistently gone to chess club.” 

The once small-populated club has grown to over sixty members in less than a year, through its continued efforts to lead a welcoming community of students. 

“Whether you’ve played for a week, a day, or even 10 years it doesn’t matter…” junior and social media promoter Julia Thessen said. 

Over the past year, the club has engaged in chess matches with other rival schools, such as Edgewood and Viera. These casual competitions not only allowed Holy Trinity students to build upon their chess skills, but also form bonds with other students. 

Additionally, friendships continue to grow among different schools and their respective chess club presidents. 

“I got to know the Edgewood president of the chess club. If it wasn’t for the chess club, I would have never met him. It was a very nice friendship to make,” cofounder Luke Kenney said. 

Ultimately, the chess club is led by the underlying string connecting all members: friendship. 

The club remains a welcoming community for all, where students can form bonds both in and out of matches.