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.
Ready to Make Your Next Move?
Minnows is designed for beginners who know the basics and can play through a game—even if they still make mistakes or need a little help along the way.
This class helps students sharpen their skills and build confidence for casual games and, potentially, tournament play. Students begin playing more independently while learning defense, piece values, opening principles, and basic checkmates.
Every game is a chance to practice, discover something new, and become a stronger chess player.
Is Minnows the Right Fit?
A Little Experience Goes a Long Way
Students should already know the basic rules and be able to play through a game with some assistance if needed.
Perfect play is not required—Minnows is a place to practice and improve!
Still Learning the Pieces?
Students who are completely new to chess may be better suited to Guppies or Seahorses before joining Minnows.
What Will My Child Learn?
Play More Independently
Build confidence making moves and completing games with less assistance.
Defend Your Position
Learn to notice threats and protect the king and other pieces.
Understand Piece Values
Explore what pieces are worth and use that knowledge when considering trades.
Build a Strong Opening
Practice opening principles that help get the pieces ready for action.
Recognize Checkmates
Learn basic checkmate patterns and how to finish a game.
Put Skills Into Practice
Bring new ideas to the board and build confidence for casual or future tournament play.
Schedule, Location & Tuition
When We Meet
Tuesday evenings
5:15–6:00 p.m.
Confirm session dates and availability before attending.
Where We Meet
King’s Grant Presbyterian Church
745 Little Neck Road
Virginia Beach
Tuition & Registration
$140 per session
Includes a ChessKid Gold account.
$20 nonrefundable registration fee due at enrollment.
Ready to Join the Minnows?
Open HRCA’s registration portal to check for available Minnows classes, session dates, and enrollment information.
The Sky Is the Limit!
After completing Minnows, students may be ready for HRSCC—our premier youth tournament club—or intermediate-level classes and camps.
HRCA staff will help identify the best next step based on your student’s skills, confidence, and readiness.