The THS Chess Club achieved an impressive performance at the 55th World Amateur Team East Tournament held in Parsippany, New Jersey, from February 15 to February 17. This prestigious event, one of the largest and most competitive team chess tournaments in the country, attracted over 1,500 participants and nearly 375 teams. After three days of intense play, THS secured the title of Best High School Team, ending Livingston High School’s two-year reign at the top.

The tournament followed a four-player team format, where each match was decided by the number of individual wins across four boards. Over the course of the three-day event, teams played six rounds, facing different opponents in each matchup. If there was a 2-2 tie, then the match would end in a draw. Each player was given 100 minutes per game, with an additional 30 minutes added after the 40th move. This extended time control required not only skill but also strong mental endurance, as players had to maintain focus for hours at a time. 

THS was represented by Aaron Lee (’25), Calvin Du (‘26), Taisei Amemiya (’27), and Wyndsor Hsu (’28). The team faced off against a variety of competitors—their toughest challenge coming from Livingston High School, the defending champion, who had dominated the tournament for the past two years. In a highly anticipated match, THS was paired against one of Livingston’s strongest teams. Despite losing that individual matchup, Tenafly ultimately finished the tournament with four match wins out of six rounds, while Livingston secured only 3.5 wins. This narrow margin was enough to dethrone the reigning champions and secure Tenafly’s first place finish.

For many members of the THS team, this tournament was not just about competition but also about personal growth and teamwork. After many hard-fought games of chess, the THS Chess team was pleased to share their final thoughts: 

Du, THS Chess Club’s Vice President and an experienced player who has participated in the tournament since elementary school, found this year’s victory especially meaningful. “I’ve always enjoyed playing in the Amateur Team East; it’s a tournament I’ve been competing in almost every year since I was in fifth grade.”

Amemiya appreciated the opportunity to challenge himself against high-level opponents. “I thought that the tournament was interesting since there were many strong players. I also liked competing as a team,” Amemiya said. “I was happy that I had defeated some good players as well. I liked it a lot and enjoyed the experience.”

Hsu reflected on the mental demands of the event. “I thought this tournament was fun but also very mentally draining. Competing against stronger opponents made me nervous and the length of the games made it hard to concentrate for such a long period of time,” Hsu explained. “Learning to take chances against stronger opponents as well as playing with more confidence was a lesson that I learned throughout this tournament. I really enjoyed this tournament and would like to go again.”

The THS Chess Team’s success is a reflection of the thriving chess culture at the school. The Tenafly Chess Club, which meets on B days during lunch in Room 213, provides students with a space to develop their skills, play casual games, and to have fun with friends. Led by Du and Lee, the club is advised by THS English teacher Mr. Rosko, who has played an important role in fostering a competitive yet welcoming environment. 

Following their victory at the World Amateur Team East Tournament, the THS Chess Team is eager to continue competing at a high level. Their performance this year has set a new standard, proving that with determination, strategy, and teamwork, they can compete against some of the best teams in the region. The club hopes to encourage people to become more interested in chess and enjoy the game.