SUNRISE, Fla. — A growing social scene is taking shape in Sunrise, where strategy is the sport and the chessboard is becoming a hub for connection.
What was once a quieter, more exclusive space is now drawing a wider crowd — from beginners to seasoned players.
At the center of it all, is the Sunrise Center for Excellence in Chess. The program has expanded the game’s reach through tournaments, weekly open play and community events.
“What chess teaches is for you to just think one or two moves ahead in life,” said Sunrise Mayor Mike Ryan, who helped build the program with support from the city commission. “A lot of folks don’t know where to go to learn how to play. They’re scared to go find a teacher. So the city of Sunrise set up a free open play every Saturday morning, and we have instructors there.”
On a recent Saturday at the Sunrise Athletic Complex, that mission was playing out in real time — open play unfolding alongside a tournament, both drawing a steady crowd.
The junior players took the boards first.
Parents were escorted out of the gym, left to watch through the windows as the room sharpened and the focus set in.
“We’ve got to create some discipline for the parents as well,” Ryan said. “That they can’t help them. They have to let them go do their thing.”
The tournament is just one part of a broader effort to make chess more accessible and inviting.
Ryan said the idea grew out of his time with the PTA, where he saw both the benefits of the game and the barriers to entry — clubs that often drew in students who already knew how to play, leaving others out.
With backing from the city commission, the center was created to change that — offering a space where players of all levels can learn, compete and connect.
“It’s never been about trophies,” he said. “We’re going to measure our success by whether the students feel like they’re more confident. Are they more engaged? Are they going to become better architects, better lawyers, better doctors, better mayors? Smarter and prepared for life ... and that’s really been the focus.”
For players like Jacorey Bynum, that access has made a difference.
A local athlete, Bynum first discovered chess after showing up to play basketball and noticing games nearby. What began as curiosity turned into commitment — and eventually, a title as a National Master.
“It’s all about gameplan,” said Bynum. “Like at the start of the opening I know what I’m going to do and what I want to do.”
Parents say the appeal extends beyond competition — pointing to a space that’s diverse, welcoming and open to all.
Eric Kuhn said his children are learning that every move matters — and every mistake teaches.
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