Every Tuesday afternoon, the front meeting room at Crystal City Public Library is transformed into a quiet battleground.
Chess players from the surrounding areas gather for a few hours of camaraderie and critical thinking. It’s a simple, low-pressure endeavor centered around having fun and learning more about the game.
“It’s just great for learning. It’s all for fun,” said Mark Brumfield, a regular member of about a year who was invited by his friend Gerald Hook. “It’s a good social outlet just being with people and actually talking face-to-face.”
Gerald Hook, a longtime member of the club, says learning by doing is one of the best ways to become a better player. Having a consistent group to play against makes that possible.
“Merely playing is one of the best educations (you) can get in chess,” Hook said.
The group was started in 2023 by Tom McGrath of De Soto. McGrath picked up the game later in life while living in Virgina, going on to win the Virginia state championship at age 55. For Tom, the weekly meetup offers a connection to the community and to fellow chess players.
“It gets me out of the house, to be around more people and just kind of have fun,” McGrath said.
The club has a core group of four regulars. They prioritize hosting a club where all skill levels are welcome. Members range from casual players to enthusiasts like Greg Nurse, a talented player who moved from Chicago specifically to be close to St. Louis’ chess scene. They welcome people of any age interested in chess to come out each week including young kids looking to learn more about the game.
Often, members will work together to solve chess exercises and discuss strategy. In a world full of distractions, McGrath says the game forces players to slow down and think ahead.
“It kind of gets you out of the TikTok mentality where you’ve got a really, really short attention span,” McGrath said. “It’s sort of like strengthening your mental muscles.”
The club is always welcoming new members.
Joining is as simple as coming to the library ready to play. For anyone intimidated by the complexity of the game or the idea of walking into a new group, the members have a straightforward message: just show up.
“Everybody has to start somewhere,” McGrath said. “We’re all relaxed and laid back and welcoming.”
Brumfield echoes the sentiment.
“Show up,” Brumfield said. “We have a great time there. You know, it’s a good way to get out. A good way to spend some time.”
Hook agrees: “You’re a member today if you show up.”
The club meets from 1-5 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Crystal City Public Library, 736 Mississippi Ave.
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