2025 Lodi Campus Chess Competition

The SBJC Lodi Campus launched its annual school-wide Chess Competition last year with the goal of introducing students to the strategic game. Since then, the event has taken off and has quickly become a highly anticipated, week-long June tradition that generates excitement throughout the school.

This year’s tournament featured a 32-person bracket made up of students, faculty, and staff. Winning three incredible matches to get to the final, this year’s Chess Champion was sixth-grade student, JJ.

Mr. Corey Bladzinsky, who helps coordinate the event, interviewed JJ and captured his reactions after winning the final match of the tournament:

What were your emotions and thoughts upon entering the tournament?

JJ: I was nervous, and kept thinking about if I would make a mistake and lose my match.

What was your reaction after playing your first game?

JJ: I felt very confident that I could win the tournament.

Which opponent did you feel most nervous to play against?

JJ: I was nervous while playing last year’s tournament winner.

When did you feel most confident and did he feel you may not win?

JJ: I felt most confident after my first two wins in the tournament, and I thought I was going to lose during the final match.

What were the biggest moments for you during the tournament and how did you feel during them?

JJ: When one of my teacher-opponent’s blundered his queen during our match, I thought that was crazy. I was most happy when I won the final match!