After two days of intense competition, the 2025 Inter-Secondary School Chess Tournament concluded on Saturday, 13th December, with Elmore Stoutt High School emerging as the overall champions.

Hosted by the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, the tournament brought together secondary school students across the territory to showcase discipline, critical thinking, sportsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the game of chess.

Elmore Stoutt High School emerged as the overall champions, securing first place in both the Junior and Senior Divisions. The school also achieved a clean sweep of the Top Player rankings in both categories, marking a remarkable showing of their preparation, teamwork, and strategic excellence.

In the Senior Secondary Division, Elmore Stoutt’s Shamoy Joseph secured first ranking, followed by teammates Dimitri Fungfook, and Raheim Hodge. The Junior Secondary Division mirrored this achievement, with Elmore Stoutt’s Israel Profit securing the top junior position, followed closely by teammates Tiandra Scatliffe and Navin Donovan.

Several other schools also delivered commendable performances. Bregado Flax Educational Centre placed second in the Senior division and third in the Junior division, while St. George’s Secondary School earned third place in the Senior Division and second place in the Junior Division.

In the Primary Division, top honours were awarded to Isaiah Smith of St. George’s Primary School, with Kalon Christopher of Agape Total Life Academy placing second and Timoi Scatliffe of St. George’s Primary School securing third place.

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro, congratulated all participating students and schools, noting that chess continues to play an important role in developing critical life skills.

She stated, “Chess challenges our students to think strategically, remain disciplined under pressure, and approach problems with confidence and clarity. These are skills that support learning across all subject areas and prepare young people to navigate an increasingly complex world. Through opportunities like this, students are sharpening their minds, building resilience, and discovering new pathways for growth.”

Speaking at the close of the tournament, Education Officer for Science and Physical Education, Mrs. Renee Weston-Caines, commended the students for their dedication and competitive spirit, noting that the level of play demonstrated over the two days reflected a growing culture of intellectual engagement and discipline among young learners in the Virgin Islands. She also acknowledged the vital role played by coaches, judges, volunteers, and school administrators in ensuring the success of the event.

The Ministry expressed special appreciation to its partners and supporters, including Exness, whose contribution marked the first time a donor funded monetary awards for the tournament and the BVI Chess Federation for its continued commitment to developing the sport locally. Gratitude was also extended to officials, volunteers, media partners and behind-the-scenes staff whose collective efforts ensured the smooth execution of the competition.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports congratulates all participating students, schools, coaches and supporters for contributing to a successful tournament that highlighted the power of chess as a tool for learning, leadership and personal growth. 

The Ministry looks forward to building on this momentum and welcoming even greater participation in future tournaments.