Small Moves. Growing Confidence.
Minnows Chess
Know the basics? Let’s put them into play! Build stronger skills, make thoughtful moves, and grow into a more confident, independent chess player.
- Beyond the Basics
- Build Confidence
- Develop Independence
- Pre-Competitive
From Knowing the Moves to Making a Plan
Minnows is for beginners who know the basic rules and can play through a game—even if they still make mistakes or need a little help.
Players strengthen their understanding of defense, piece values, opening principles, and basic checkmates while learning to make more independent decisions.
Every game is a chance to practice, discover, and improve. These growing skills help children feel more comfortable in casual play and prepare them for possible tournament play.
Is Minnows the Right Fit?
A Little Experience Goes a Long Way
Your child knows the basic rules and can play through a game. Some assistance is fine—perfect play is not expected!
Still Learning the Pieces?
Children who are completely new to chess may be better suited to Guppies or Seahorses.
Not sure where to start? Ask us about placement.
Small Moves. Stronger Skills.
Minnows helps young players turn basic knowledge into thoughtful play.
Play More Independently
Build confidence making moves and completing games with less help.
Defend Your Position
Notice threats and learn to protect the king and other pieces.
Understand Piece Values
Explore what pieces are worth and think through possible trades.
Build a Strong Opening
Practice opening principles and get pieces ready for action.
Recognize Checkmates
Discover basic checkmate patterns and ways to finish a game.
Put Skills Into Practice
Grow more comfortable with casual play and future competition.
Your Next Move: Join Us!
Check the class listing below for available sessions and registration.
When
Tuesday Evenings
5:15–6:00 p.m.
See the listing for session dates.
Where
King’s Grant Presbyterian Church
745 Little Neck Road
Virginia Beach
Cost
$140 per Session
ChessKid Gold included.
A $20 nonrefundable registration fee is due at enrollment.
Late registration: A $20 late fee applies after August 30. Please contact HRCA to confirm the deadline for your session.
Need financial assistance? Limited aid is available. HRCA membership is required; apply at least two weeks before the session begins. Learn about financial assistance.
Ready to Join the Minnows?
Find your session below. A Register Now link means online enrollment is open for that class.
Review the day, time, ages, and tuition.
Select the registration link for your preferred class.
Follow the prompts and add your payment method.
Available Minnows Classes
Not sure if this is the right program? Review “Is Minnows the Right Fit?” ↑
Select “More class details” for session information. Available spaces alone do not confirm that enrollment is open.
Where Will Their Next Move Take Them?
After Minnows, players may be ready for intermediate classes, camps, or the Hampton Roads Scholastic Chess Club—HRCA’s premier youth tournament club.
We can help you choose the next step based on your child’s skills, confidence, and readiness.