The Missouri State Scholastic Championship Chess Tournament recently took place on March 10, and some members of Pattonville’s chess club found success in the tournament last week.

Junior Isaiah Gadson perhaps found the most success among participants from Pattonville. He took first place in the tournament and was officially named the Missouri state chess champion.

“It feels exciting,” said Gadson about this accomplishment. “All of my hard work is starting to pay off.”

As a member of the team since freshman year, Gadson developed an interest for chess early in his life.

“Back when I was five, my dad taught me to play chess,” explained Gadson. “Since then, I’ve always found moving chess pieces interesting.”

According to Gadson, the team strives to finish in the top 3 each tournament. Although the team placed eighth out of 42 teams last week, the members on the team find success by setting personal goals.

Gadson’s goal is to win all of his games and give his team a chance to succeed in the tournaments.

Junior Joe Copeland also performed well and took home an 8th place trophy for his individual play.

The PHS chess team consists of 11 members and is coached by Dr. Janet Baldwin.