Chess Club in Colchester Sees Meteoric Rise in Members Inspired by E2-E4 Opening Move
The King’s Pawn Inspires Chess Club Boom in Colchester
E2-E4, also known as The King’s Pawn, is a classic opening move in chess that has sparked a surge in popularity for a chess club in Colchester. Founded by Jay Rusecki, the club has grown from just four members to an impressive 100 players since 2023.
Jay, a passionate chess player since his teenage years, decided to create the club after struggling to find a suitable chess community in the area. Drawing inspiration from his own love for the game and the soviet comedy movie The Twelve Chairs, Jay established Game – E2 E4 as a welcoming space for players of all ages and skill levels.
The club has become a hub for the Colchester chess community, offering regular matches, team games, and coaching sessions. What sets Game – E2 E4 apart is its inclusive nature, welcoming players of all backgrounds and abilities. The club initially started without a junior division, but has since welcomed a number of enthusiastic young players, with the youngest member being only seven years old.
In addition to providing a safe space for young players to learn and grow, the club also serves as a mental health hub. Players facing mental health issues, autism, or physical disabilities are all welcomed at E2-E4, where they can not only play chess but also achieve their dreams. One member, Martin, who has a physical disability, recently won his first league game, bringing tears of joy to Jay’s eyes.
The club’s success can also be attributed to the support of David York, a local chess enthusiast who generously provided high-quality boards and pieces for the club. Secretary Chris Lane expressed gratitude for David’s contributions, highlighting his role in the club’s growth and development.
Looking ahead, the club aims to promote equality in the sport and attract more female players. Jay envisions turning Colchester into a chess city, with aspirations to establish an academy for chess and nurture local talent. The club recently received a special video message from Magnus Carlsen, the world’s No.1 chess player, congratulating them on their achievements.
As the club continues to thrive and expand its services, including plans to become a charity and community space, all those interested in chess are encouraged to join the sessions held every Tuesday at the Colchester Spiritualist Centre. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or a seasoned player seeking to improve, Game – E2 E4 welcomes all chess enthusiasts to be a part of their growing community.