Tuba City Boarding School Chess team checkmates area schools<br>

Ricardo Mora leads three of his chess players outside to the Boarding School’s hogan. As he walks with them, he cannot praise his kids enough. As the chess teacher, one would expect it from him, but it turns out he really does have something to crow about.

In the recent chess championship between Tuba City Boarding School, Shonto Preparatory, Chinle, Tuba City Public School, Tsehotso, Kaibeto, Kayenta, Navajo Mountain and Tonaleah Day School, Tuba City took all three championships.

Tasheah Sonny, Cory Hudson and Samuel Lee, and Brian Goldtooth played five games, losing none, to advance into the championship positions.

Tasheah Sonny, a 9-year-old 3rd grader who learned chess from her father, took the Primary championship. According to her coach, Sonny is a very gifted player and student. “She takes her time, and exhibits great discipline.” Although she may appear shy, she obviously isn’t easily intimidated.

The Intermediate Championship is shared between Cory Hudson and Samuel Lee. When asked to play against each other to determine a single champion, both boys decided on a draw. Hudson is a lively 10-year-old 5th grader who credits his brother and cousins for teaching him the game.

Finally, Brian Goldtooth took the Junior High Chess Championship. He includes his brother and Mora as teachers. He is 13, and attends the 7th grade.

“These kids worked hard in practice, and that paid off in the tournament. I’m really proud of these kids, and so are their parents,” Mora said. “I’ve already alerted the high school coach that a great bunch of kids are coming up!”

Other winning chess team players are: Tanya Benally, Jae Acothley, Brandon Poocha, Natasha Lee, Shane Goldtooth, Shea Goldtooth, Sheldon Goldtooth, Sherry Hudson, Ty Tsinnijinnie, Daric Goldtooth, Ross Begody, Lewis Hascon III and Nathaniel Lee.

Congratulations are due to these great kids.

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