WHY CHESS?

Chess is far more than a game — it is a structured, intellectually rich environment where young people build essential life skills. It develops critical thinking, focus, memory, planning, emotional control, and resilience. Like a microcosm of life, chess teaches how to learn from success and failure, stay disciplined, and connect effort to achievement. Unlike many other competitive activities, chess grows the intellect and character in a safe, controlled way, with lessons that translate directly to future academic, professional, and personal success. Ultimately, the process of studying and improving at chess matters even more than trophies, fostering a growth mindset for lifelong learning.

WHY CCL?

CCL is more than a chess school — it is a holistic community dedicated to helping young players grow into strong, well-rounded individuals. With experienced coaches, in-person and online options, high-quality game analysis, and a culture that celebrates perseverance and progress, CCL creates an environment where kids can thrive. The program also extends beyond chess, offering college admissions counseling, discounted tournaments, and a deep support system, while connecting students to a network of peers and mentors who model success. CCL’s proven track record, with students gaining entry to the nation’s top colleges, shows how its approach works not just on the chessboard but in preparing for life’s broader challenges.

A GOOD THING TO BE A STUDENT AT CCL

Being part of CCL means having coaches and a community who believe in you, support you, and teach you to value the process over simply winning. Student stories show that CCL helps develop not just tournament champions but compassionate, accomplished, and resilient young leaders.

CCL students have excelled far beyond the chessboard, winning state championships, national titles, and earning global recognition. Many have gone on to become student-athletes at Ivy League colleges, academic researchers, technology inventors, social impact leaders, medical professionals, military service members, and successful career achievers after graduation. Several students have also used their chess accomplishments to earn college scholarships, helping to finance their education through their hard-won skills and dedication.

With CCL, students gain confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging, while also having opportunities to learn skills beyond chess from leadership to community service to navigating college admissions. The friendships, memories, and mentorship from the CCL community shape students to succeed both inside and outside of chess.

In short: CCL empowers students to become better players, stronger thinkers, and more complete people, ready to thrive wherever life takes them.