Chess club seeks new members
Are you looking for a good new opponent or just someone who wants to learn how to play the game?
The chess club is the place to be. It meets every Monday evening from 6 p.m. to close in Room 103 in the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, and it is always on the lookout for new members.
The chess club began toward the end of 2014, according to Michael Hale, one of the club members, and it generated some interest in the beginning, especially while the snowbirds were here.
With them heading north, the numbers have dwindled and there is a desire to bring experienced and beginner chess players into the fold.
“It’s been slow getting the word out to people interested in playing. We need to let people who are interested know we’re here,” Hale said.
Hale, who has played for years and learned the game from his eighth-grade math teacher, played his game recently against Kumar Kohli, who has played off and on for years.
“This is the first time I’ve played in a good year,” Kohli said.
The club features friendly competition and free instruction. Even though most of the players are pretty good, all ages and skill levels are welcome. All it requires is a one-time $10 general facility membership. So, if you have one already, you’re good to go.
Some clubs have games with time limits. This one allows for games with or without clocks.
Many people enjoy the game because it’s great exercise for the mind. For others, it’s the ability to be able to compete.
“It’s like anything else. Some people turn their nose up at it, others enjoy it,” Hale said. “It’s there in front of you. If you make a mistake, there’s nobody to blame but yourself. It’s an individual sport of the mind.”
“Chess makes me think. It keeps my brain active. Otherwise, I’m like a vegetable,” Kohli said.
That may be the problem, with so many people interested in video games and other activities. Another problem could be that other clubs tend to pop up. There are currently clubs in Cape Coral and at Florida SouthWestern State College.
Hale said he hopes the rec center can get its program in order.
“It’s very relaxed here. It’s free and you can sit down and play a game. If there are more people, you can rotate around. It’s a good atmosphere,” Hale said.
The North Fort Myers Community Center is at 2000 N Recreation Park Way.