Trevin Day, a 22-year-old from St. George, is on a mission to bring the joy of chess to the next generation. With a black belt in taekwondo and a deep-rooted love for chess, he's combining these two passions to create a unique learning experience. Day's Red Rock Chess Academy is more than just a chess school; it's a journey of self-discovery and skill development. By mirroring the progression system of taekwondo, he aims to teach critical thinking, friendship-building, and the art of enjoying the game.
The academy's structure is innovative. Students begin as pawns, advancing to knights and bishops, and then progress to rooks, queens, and kings. This structured approach ensures that each student's journey is a meaningful one, mirroring the progression in taekwondo. Day believes that chess is a game that offers endless opportunities for learning, and he wants to help students capitalize on these opportunities.
Day's own journey with chess began at age five when his dad introduced him to the game. It wasn't until his teenage years that he developed a deep love for it, often bringing his chess set on vacations and playing with people in airports. His passion for chess is evident in his collection of chess sets from various countries, a testament to his global appreciation for the game. As the chess president at Desert Hills High School, Day further solidified his commitment to the game.
The benefits of chess are numerous, according to Day. It teaches patience, time management, and creative thinking. These skills are not only valuable on the chessboard but also in life. Day wants to share this experience with young people, providing them with a tool for personal growth and development. While taekwondo may not be directly incorporated into the curriculum, the emphasis on blocking opponents is a nod to the martial art's principles.
Day's vision for Red Rock Chess Academy is to grow the chess community in St. George and beyond. He aims to create a supportive environment where students can not only learn the game but also develop skills that extend far beyond the chessboard. For those interested in learning more, Day can be reached at redrockchess@gmail.com.
This unique approach to teaching chess is a testament to Day's creativity and passion. By combining the structured progression of taekwondo with the intellectual challenges of chess, he is creating a holistic learning experience. It remains to be seen how this innovative approach will resonate with students, but Day's enthusiasm and dedication are sure to make a lasting impact on the chess community in St. George and beyond.
