Big Discoveries. Small Moves.
Seahorses Chess
A welcoming introduction to chess for older beginners ready to learn, practice, and play. No experience needed!
- Ages 6–13
- Beginner Friendly
- No Experience Needed
The Seahorse Story
Seahorses joined HRCA’s class lineup in early 2025 to meet a growing need: beginner chess instruction for children who have aged out of Guppies but are not quite ready for HRSCC.
Designed for students with little or no chess knowledge, Seahorses introduces the fundamentals—from moving the pieces to opening principles, checkmates, and basic tactics.
A strong foundation opens the door to more play. Students build skills for enjoying chess at home, with friends, and in future HRCA programs.
Is Seahorses the Right Fit?
Beginners Ages 6–13
A welcoming starting point for children with little or no chess knowledge.
Ready to Learn the Fundamentals
Students learn how the pieces move, how to begin a game, and how to put their new skills into practice.
Already know the basics and can play through a game? Ask us whether Minnows or another program is a better fit.
What Will My Child Learn?
Build a foundation one move at a time, with opportunities to learn, practice, and play.
Meet the Pieces
Learn how each piece moves and captures.
Board Basics
Learn the board setup and rules needed to begin a game.
Strong First Moves
Discover opening principles and get pieces into play.
Check & Checkmate
Recognize threats to the king and learn basic checkmates.
Basic Tactics
Start spotting threats and opportunities on the board.
Put It Together
Practice using new skills to play a complete game.
Schedule, Location & Tuition
Please review the session updates and class listing before planning to attend.
When
Tuesday Evenings
6:15–7:00 p.m.
When a session is offered.
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.
Session Updates
Not Running This Fall
Seahorses will not run during the fall 2026 session.
Jan 12 – Mar 23
Ready to Join the Seahorses?
Check the class name, dates, time, and age range.
Use the registration link beside your preferred class.
Follow the prompts and add your payment method.
Available Seahorses Classes
Review the details for each class before registering. Available spaces alone do not confirm that enrollment is open.
Where Will Your Next Move Take You?
After completing Seahorses, students may be ready for Minnows, HRSCC—our premier youth tournament club, intermediate classes/camps, and/or Rookie training workshops.
HRCA staff will help determine the best placement for your student.