Chess Checks into State for Third Year

For the third straight year, the Chess team will head to Peoria, Illinois to compete in the state championship.

The Colonels, propelled by a big win against New Trier, finished in the top four of their sectional to clinch a spot downstate.

Senior Tyler Garibaldi chimed in on the sectional win: “Beating New Trier was a huge win for our team. They are one of the biggest high schools in the state and a powerhouse when it comes to chess. Overall, we are really excited to qualify for states and hope to perform well the following week.”

Going downstate to compete in the state finals is becoming familiar territory for Parker. In their first appearance in 2024, the Colonels placed 107th, gaining valuable experience in the process.

They then improved upon that finish in 2025, when they placed 37th, best of all the smaller enrolment schools.

“I think our past experiences at states will help us be a more competitive team,” said Garibaldi. “Playing at states is nerve-racking, but with our prior experience, we will be able to think and play under pressure better than our opponents.”

That experience plus great team chemistry will be crucial to the team this year. Parker returns six of their eight players from last year's squad, which bodes well for an even better finish in 2026.

“The team vibe is very good. We like to crack jokes with each other, and everyone gets along very well,” said Garibaldi.

Parker will head down to Peoria on Thursday before playing their first match on Friday morning. Play will continue through Saturday as the Colonels hope to top the podium in their third trip downstate.

“Our main goal for the rest of the season is to finish strong,” concluded Garibaldi. “Last year, we placed first in the state for our division. This year, we hope to come back strong and repeat our championship.”