Kid Chess News
February 2026
A monthly roundup of happenings in the Kid Chess community for adults who have children enrolled in our clubs, camps, and tournaments.
Feedback? Email dan.lucas@kidchess.com
GM Judit Polgár Documentary Drops February 6
In a new documentary from Netflix, “Chess phenom Judit Polgár battles skepticism, sexism and champion Garry Kasparov to claim her place among the game’s all-time greats.” At Kid Chess, we are always happy to see and promote positive representations of women and girls in chess.
Did you know? We hosted Judit’s sister Susan at Chess Zone this past November! Read the recap here.
Upcoming Scholastic Tournament
Sunday, February 22nd: Scholastic K-12 G/25d5
Location: Chess Zone (Roswell, GA)
Four Rounds, Swiss System, US Chess Rated (Regular & Quick)
• 1300+: Advanced
• U1300: 600 – 1299
• U600: Under 600 / Unrated
G/25; d5
(25 minutes per player with a 5-second delay)
Check-in: 9:45 AM
Rounds: 10:00, 11:30, 12:45, 2:00
Entry Fees & Deadlines
Note: Students currently enrolled in a Kid Chess clubs get the member rate.
| Type | Early (by 2/18) | Regular (by 2/22) | On-Site |
|---|---|---|---|
| Members | $38 | $43 | $48 |
| Non-Members | $45 | $50 | $55 |
⚠️ Capacity: Limited to the first 40 registrants.
🏅 Prizes: Trophies for 1st-3rd place in each section. Medals for all finishing with 50% or greater who don’t win a trophy.
♟️ US Chess Rules: Unrated players must obtain a USCF membership. Players may play up if their rating is within 100 points of section requirements. US Chess Live ratings will be used.
🕒 Byes: Two 1/2-Pt byes available (must request before Round 1). 0-Pt byes available any time.
🚗 Logistics: Children may be dropped off; please return for pick-up by 2:15 PM.
Or call for registration at 770-575-5802
Kid Chess App: Learn Anywhere
Every student gets full premium access included with tuition! Your child can solve puzzles, watch lessons, and play games on any device.
Learn more about the app and its features here.
To get started:
Follow the step-by-step instructions here: Instructions
Your child’s unique voucher code is available from their coach.
Note: If you have more than one student enrolled in the program, you can use the voucher code for each child—the code has been set up for each student in your family’s enrollment.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please call our office at 770-575-5802
Get the App now here:
Get It On Google Play
Download on the App Store
Meet the Coach
Kyle Chance Phillips
From Kid Chess Student to Mentor
Rated over 2000 on Chess.com
♟️ The Journey: A “Full Circle” Story
Chance’s chess story began at home, learning the ropes from his mom, granddad, and brother. He is a proud graduate of Ocee Elementary and a former Ocee Kid Chess student!
During his time as a student, he was inspired by his own mentors, Coach Rene and Coach Tom (who is still a Kid Chess coach!).
“They were a big inspiration to me because they showed that they believed in me through their actions.”
He carried that passion through the Alpharetta High School Chess Club and continued to play regularly while studying at the University of Alabama. Roll Tide and Checkmate!
💡 Why He Teaches
For Chance, chess is about more than just moving pieces; it’s a toolkit for life. He’s dedicated to helping students develop:
- Critical Thinking: Learning to see three steps ahead.
- Work Ethic: Understanding that mastery comes from practice.
- Community: Building lasting friendships, just as he did starting out.
🎾 Beyond the Board
When he isn’t analyzing a middle-game strategy, Chance stays active with Tennis and Running. He also enjoys the ancient strategy game of Go, though he admits chess will always be his “Number One.”
🚀 Coach Chance’s Favorite Openings
The French Defense: 1. e4 e6 — A favorite for strong, counter-attacking play.
The Italian Game: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 — Focuses on rapid development and center control.