2025 46th State Scholastic Championship Recap and Looking Ahead to 2026

 

Milo and Logan Check In

The 2025 46th State Scholastic Championship brought together some of the finest young minds in the region for an unforgettable display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. Held under the stewardship of expert tournament directors, this event was a resounding success that showcased the remarkable talent of middle and high school chess players. Complete results of the competition can be accessed here.

In the elementary section, there were 61 players. The top three finishers overall were (1st Place) Roy Li of Moscow, (2nd Place) Ryan Wu, and (3rd Place) Leo Grace of Coeur d'Alene. Other local players also showed remarkable performances in the elementary section, showcasing their dedication and skill in chess. Sophia Grace, a 3rd-grade standout, earned the 3rd-grade state championship title for her second consecutive grade-level championship, finishing 5th overall. Milo Davis also excelled, securing the 2nd-grade state championship for his third state championship and placing 6th overall. Serena Grace earned recognition as a 5th-grade medalist by finishing 17th overall, while Logan Davis demonstrated strong play, achieving a solid performance with 3 points out of 5 to finish 28th overall. These results highlight the impressive talent and commitment of the CDA Chess members in the elementary division.

Payton and Emerson Defend Their Turf

Other local players delivered exceptional performances in the 46th State Scholastic Championship, showcasing their skills and determination on a competitive stage. Payton Akers, a 9th grader, demonstrated strategic brilliance by securing 9th overall and finishing as the 2nd place 9th grader in the tournament, a remarkable achievement against a field of strong opponents. Similarly, Emerson Schwartz displayed excellent poise and calculation to achieve 19th overall, proving to be a formidable contender among the competitors. These impressive outcomes highlight the depth of talent within the local chess community and the dedication of these young players to refining their craft.

Leo takes on Linus

Finally, and most notably, Linus Wannamaker stood out with a perfect score, a feat that included an extraordinary win against two-time state champion James Wie (rating 2132). This accomplishment underscores Wannamaker's high preparation and resilience throughout the tournament. The achievements of these local players not only bring pride to their community and inspire other budding players to pursue excellence in the game, but their performances testify to the promising future of competitive chess at regional and state levels.

3-time State Champ Milo Davis against Roy Li

2-Time State Champ Sophia Grace, against Ryan Wu

An Event to Remember

The championship saw an impressive turnout, with students demonstrating incredible patience, critical thinking, and energy throughout the matches. Each game highlighted the hard work these players have put into mastering the intricate world of chess. The atmosphere was electrifying as participants competed for titles and the honor of representing their schools and communities. The dedication seen among these young players underscores the importance of scholastic tournaments in fostering intellectual growth, discipline, and competitive spirit.

I was honored to serve as one of the tournament directors for this prestigious event. Watching the players in action was both inspiring and humbling. These young individuals represent the next generation of strategic thinkers, and their passion for chess is a testament to the bright future ahead.

Preparing for the 2026 Championship

With the 2025 tournament marking a new milestone, it's never too early to plan for next year’s event. Participants, coaches, and parents should keep these steps in mind as they gear up for the 2026 47th State Scholastic Championship:

  1. Develop a Consistent Practice Routine

Regular practice is key to improving skills. Students should aim for a mix of online play, solving puzzles, and reviewing games to sharpen their strategic thinking.

  1. Participate in Local Tournaments

Attending smaller competitions helps players gain experience and confidence. These settings are an excellent opportunity to test strategies and learn from opponents.

  1. Work with a Coach or Join a Chess Club

Personalized guidance from an experienced coach can help players refine their techniques and address weaknesses. Alternatively, being part of a chess club provides a supportive environment for growth.

  1. Analyze Past Games

Reviewing games from the 2025 Championship and professional matches, can provide valuable insights and inspire new approaches to the board.

  1. Focus on Physical and Mental Wellbeing

Chess demands high levels of concentration and endurance. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and managing stress are crucial for peak performance.

By following these steps, players can approach the 2026 championship with confidence and readiness. We encourage everyone—students, educators, parents, and chess enthusiasts alike—to support these young players on their chess journeys.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year’s event's success. From the players and their families to the organizers and sponsors, your hard work and dedication made this remarkable experience possible. Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare for another fantastic year of scholastic chess!



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