Master the Board
Join our elite youth club for high-stakes learning and advanced mentorship. Level up your game with expert guidance and competitive play.
ESA Approved Vendor: Maricopa Youth Chess Club
When:Â Saturday's. Extra practice on Wednesdays. New class each month
What Time: 11:30 am -1:00 pm
Where:Â Maricopa Library and Cultural Center Rm: Maple Room
Who can join: All levels welcomed - Ages 5-17
Who Can I Contact: Kevelyn Tellez Pieceoflife.art@gmail.com
The Summer Intensive
Deepen your strategy and master the board with our expert-led sessions. Ages 5-17 welcomed
Week 1
Foundations of Advanced Plus. Mastering opening principles and tactical patterns.
Week 2
Endgame Mastery. Transitioning from tactical play to strategic endgame control.
Week 3
Advanced Tactics. Deep dive into complex combinations and psychological warfare.
Week 4
Final Tournament. Showcase your skills in our high-stakes community championship.
SEPTEMBER ENROLLMENT OPEN *** SPOTS LIMITED *** SEPTEMBER ENROLLMENT OPEN *** SPOTS LIMITED ***
Activities & Tournament
Deepen your skills and test your mettle in our exclusive community events.
Wednesday Extra Practice
Optional free play sessions designed to help you master advanced strategies and improve your game. Located at the Maricopa Library and Cultural CenterÂ
End of Program Tournament
Compete for the cup in a high-stakes final event to showcase your growth and earn a special prize.
Less Than $15 Per Session
Accessible and affordable chess learning for every young player.
Limited to 16 Students
Small group size ensures personalized attention and expert mentorship.
The Chess Club Experience
Witness the intensity of our weekly tournaments and the focused determination of our young players as they master the board.
Social skills are an essential part of child development. Kids obtain the majority of their education through social activities. We strive to extend the opportunity to connect children through the chess club. Our strategy challenges children to react to pressure, fight back by using critical thinking skills, and handle difficult situation through strategic moves that they can use in real life experiences and are valuable as a chess player. Â
About Your Coach and Mentor
Meet Coach Ferdinando Nino Fortineaux
"Coach Nino"
I have over 17 years of experience teaching chess, beginning in 2009. I’ve worked with community centers including Longview, Maryvale, and Desert West, and later taught in the Cartwright School District at Manuel Peña, Castro, and Heatherbrae Elementary Schools. I’ve also partnered with Trailside Pointe Elementary and collaborated with Mr. Duval for several years. I hold a valid fingerprint clearance card and have previously worked with Chess Emporium.
Meet Mentor Kyree Walker
I started playing chess at the beginning of 2026. I challenge myself to learn new skills everyday. I hope to continue to learn and teach others during our summer chess club.Â