Minden Chess Club: Bringing Together Residents of All Ages for Fun and Competition

Minden Chess Club Brings Community Together for Fun and Competition

A club in Minden is making waves in the community by bringing together residents of all ages for fun, conversation, and competition. The Minden Chess Club, founded by Jason Bennetts and Berke Landrum, invites players of all skill levels to learn, play, and grow in a family-friendly environment.

The club’s first meeting was held on July 22nd, 2023, and has since grown to over 30 members ranging from talented senior players to youth interested in learning the game. Meetings are held every Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. year-round at Pizza Hut, where participants can play without the need to purchase anything.

Landrum expressed his gratitude for Pizza Hut’s accommodation, stating, “They’re very gracious in that sense.” The club provides game sets for players, including a beginner set with ‘moving instructions’ on each piece to help newcomers navigate the game.

In addition to casual play, the club offers occasional chess lessons to teach players new strategies and approaches. Landrum highlighted the importance of building chess skills for those interested in larger tournament competitions, noting the success of the club’s players in a recent tournament in Kearney.

For those not interested in competitive play, the Minden Chess Club offers plenty of opportunities for casual games and socializing. Members can participate in ongoing games or watch to learn and connect with others in the community.

Community members with an appreciation for chess or an interest in learning the game are encouraged to attend a meeting or contact one of the founders for more information. Bennetts emphasized the life lessons that can be learned from chess, stating, “There’s a lot to be learned from it, and it’s a really fun game. You don’t have to be smart to learn how to play; that’s a very common misconception.”

For updates, special events, and chess news, residents can follow Minden Chess Club on Facebook. The club aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive space for all ages and skill levels to enjoy the game of chess and connect with others in the community.