Award of Excellence: Checkmating Boundaries: An Asian boy’s Chess Journey in America
A narrative picture story that increases the understanding of the role that athletics play in the lives of athletes and their community. The story may focus on sports as a catalyst of change in gender, race, political, and cultural issues. It may feature professional or amateur athletes, fans, families, or any aspect of a community that is changed by its relationship to sports.
Checkmating Boundaries: An Asian boy’s Chess Journey in America
In American Asian student communities, there has been a recent surge in enthusiasm for chess. Asian parents view chess not only as a means to foster social interaction but also as a valuable opportunity for their children's learning and development in the future.
Ben, a fifth-grader and recent immigrant from China, has been attending a New York City public school since May 2022. He sees chess as a wonderful avenue to make new friends from different background and at different age, build confidence through fierce competition, and integrate into the new society. Over the past year, Ben has actively participated in 79 tournaments, both large and small, within and outside New York City, and in public chess cafes and parks. Through this experience, he has forged connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds and gained a deeper understanding of American culture.
Checkmating Boundaries: An Asian boy’s Chess Journey in America
In American Asian student communities, there has been a recent surge in enthusiasm for chess. Asian parents view chess not only as a means to foster social interaction but also as a valuable opportunity for their children's learning and development in the future.
Ben, a fifth-grader and recent immigrant from China, has been attending a New York City public school since May 2022. He sees chess as a wonderful avenue to make new friends from different background and at different age, build confidence through fierce competition, and integrate into the new society. Over the past year, Ben has actively participated in 79 tournaments, both large and small, within and outside New York City, and in public chess cafes and parks. Through this experience, he has forged connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds and gained a deeper understanding of American culture.