Bradford College

Bradford College Chess Team, Crowned League Champions with Triple Win!

Bradford College Chess Team have just completed an outstanding season in the Bradford and District Chess Association (BDCA), beating off stiff competition to be crowned the league champions.

The team managed by Bradford College Sports Centre Manager Nigel Redmond has gone from strength to strength under his watchful eye - storming their way to victory in Division 3.

Despite competing against teams from higher divisions, the Bradford College Chess Team added the Hepolite plate to their growing list of accolades.

Associated team ‘The Redmonds’ also won the Clough Trophy.  This is the first time a team comprising of all brothers have won a major competition. This achievement was highlighted on the prestigious English Chess Federation website.

Nigel explains: “We started out a couple of years ago as a Healthy College project and have developed from novices to a competitive league team with the support and backing of Healthy College Manager Jane Marshall and Programme Manager Graham Fleming.”

Nigel has been instrumental in introducing Chess to Bradford College students and staff with lunchtime activity sessions and regular appearances at Healthy College Week.

This following a recent report by the BBC, which examines and supports the benefits of putting the game on the national curriculum.  

Nigel continued:  “This year we have benefitted from new signings and have had an unbelievable season.  The diverse nature of our club has really contributed to our success, with outstanding performances from: David West (who was the league’s third best player in his grade section) Balwir Singh, Peter Redmond, Kevan Ramsden and Colin Burt.

Chess dates back to ancient time and was once used to teach young knights and princes about military strategy – as it is a game that promotes mental agility; improving concentration skills, logical thinking and strategy.

Commenting on the positive impact Chess has had on the students and staff at Bradford College, Nigel said: “Playing chess is a great way for people to socialise with each other around the College – promoting good sportsmanship and social skills, whilst also increasing confidence, self-esteem and concentration levels.”

Nigel smiled and concluded: “I can’t think of a better game for students to enjoy in the run up to exams - as its excellent pre-exam preparation.