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About Us
The Kitchener Waterloo CHess Club
Our Story
A Community Built on a Shared Love for Chess
The Kitchener Waterloo Chess Club (KWCC) was founded in 1990 on a simple principle: to create a space where chess enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels could come together to learn, play, and connect. We’ve been fostering a love for chess in our community ever since, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for players to grow their skills, forge friendships, and experience the joy of the game.
Over the years, the KWCC has become more than just a club – it’s a vibrant hub of activity, where laughter, friendly competition, and a shared passion for chess create a truly special atmosphere. We’re proud of our rich history and the countless players who have contributed to our success.
This is just the beginning of our story. We’re excited to continue building a thriving chess community for generations to come.
Our Mission
“to foster a welcoming and inclusive community of chess enthusiasts, where players of all levels can connect, learn, and enjoy the game in a friendly and supportive environment.”
Our Values
The Principles That Guide Us
Inclusivity
We believe chess is for everyone. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all members feel valued and respected.
- Fairness: We treat all members with equal respect and dignity, regardless of their background or skill level.
- Equality: We provide equal opportunities for all members to learn, play, and grow within our chess community.
- Diversity: We celebrate the diversity of our members and value the unique perspectives and experiences they bring to the club.
Sportsmanship
We believe in sportsmanship to create a positive experience for all. We encourage fair play, respect for opponents, and grace in both victory and defeat.
- Respect: We treat all players with dignity and respect, fostering a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.
- Fair Play: We adhere to the rules of chess and ensure a fair and competitive environment for all members.
- Grace: We encourage members to win humbly and lose graciously, recognizing that chess is a journey of continuous learning and improvement.
Community
KWCC is more than a club – it’s a community built on a shared love of chess. We bring people together, united by their passion for the game.
- Belonging: We foster a sense of belonging and connection, creating a space where every member feels welcome and valued.
- Support: We provide support and encouragement, helping each other to improve and achieve our chess goals.
- Collaboration: We work together to achieve common goals, such as promoting chess in the KW region and organizing exciting events.
Youth Club Members
Current Volunteers
Yearly Lectures
Our Programs
Something for Everyone
Tournaments
Challenge yourself in our classical, rapid, and blitz tournaments! KWCC offers exciting events for players of all levels, from casual to competitive.
Lectures
Attend one of our lectures covering topics such as openings, tactics, end games, and more! Expand your understanding and improve your overall game.
Youth Chess Club
Nurturing the next generation of chess stars! Our Youth Club provides a fun and supportive learning environment for young players.
Volunteering
Make a difference in the chess community! Discover how you can contribute your time and talents to the Kitchener Waterloo Chess Club.
KWCC History
Coming Soon…
Our Executive Board
Meet the Leaders of Our Chess Community
Kahan Desai
President
Kahan's Story
Current President, also organizer/instructor of the Youth Chess Club across Kitchener. My chess journey started in India over ten years ago. I joined the KWCC to keep my love for chess going and have since found a strong sense of community, as if my family.
I started as a player-volunteer, later taking on the Youth Chess Club before becoming President of the KWCC. Now, I help with a bit of everything while working alongside our amazing board members to support the club and address community needs. My goal is to spread the love for the game.
Feel free to discuss anything chess! I also love math, puzzles, table tennis, hiking etc.
Kyle Vander Welle
President Emeritus
Kyle's Story
Former KWCC President, current helper of the club and purveyor of the "dark horse" openings. Started playing 9 years ago and have been horsing around ever since, playing unconventional openings and trying to get other chess players off their high horse.
Not to beat a dead horse, but I feel like some chess is all about holding your horses and not backing the wrong horse, doing otherwise is just putting the cart before the horse.
Always happy to help teach anyone on their chess journey... and that's coming straight from the horse's mouth.
Matt Lewis
Vice President / Tournemant Director
Matt's Story
Hi, I'm Matt Lewis Vice President and Tournement Director or the KWCC. Like many I caught the chess bug in 2020 and found my way to the club in 2021, where I lost every game for at least three months but met some great people and decided to volunteer.
I help run the tournaments on Tuesday nights, as well as our Saturday Rapid events by registering players, pairing each round, and working with the Chess Federation of Canada to ensure players' ratings are updated afterwards.
You may also find me in the casual room playing bughouse or dubious blitz openings with other members. Drop in and say hi! My other hobbies include reading, cooking and travelling.
James Tennant
Treasurer
James's Story
My Name is James Tennant and I am the Treasurer of the KW Chess Club. I caught the chess bug playing online at the start of COVID and eventually made my way in-person into the KW Chess Club in 2021 Where I was warmly welcomed into the community
I started volunteering with the club in 2022 as secretary and eventually took over as treasurer, where I now serve the club by securing the annual grant needed to rent our space and help with membership fees. Outside of playing chess, I love to rock climb and travel. Feel free to come say hello to me at the club and hope to see you there!
Devon Rempel
Secretary
Devon's Story
Hi, my name is Devon, and I am the KWCC's Secretary! I started playing chess in 2019 before the pandemic and became obsessed over the past five to six years! I joined the club in early 2024 and have fallen in love with the community and environment.
My role as secretary is multi-faceted. I help with setup and cleanup of the program. I spend time with newer members, playing games and giving them important information about the club schedule and tournament structure.
You can find me at the front desk, in the casual room playing Blitz, or doing puzzles!
What Our Youth Players Say
Hear from our community