The Metea Valley Chess Team competed in the West Chicago Chess Tournament and came out triumphant with a high rank amongst few other schools on Nov. 10.

“We received the 6th place trophy at the West Chicago Tournament.  It is the first trophy we’ve received at this type of tournament,” Chess Team Sponsor Thomas Womack said.

Chess team is led by the seniors Eric Thompson and Sarat Sagaram this year.  Their hard work paid off with their first great win in Metea history.“Many of the best teams in the state competed in the event, with the only five schools beating us all being state powers,” Womack said.

Chess Team practices twice a week and competes in a regular competition against opponents in the DuPage Valley Conference and with other schools in the Chicago area during weekend tournaments.

“I’m proud of what our kids have accomplished, and with a solid group of younger players, we have the talent to continue at a high level in the future.”  Womack said.

The team is preparing harder than ever in the hopes of finishing in the top 20 at the state tournament in Peoria in February.