Nathaniel Fernandes ’20

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The Fighting Crusader Chess Team had a smashing victory at the 22nd Annual Texas State Chess Championship this past Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov. 2-4. Several players placed in the top 3 making this the best state chess tournament in all of Strake Jesuit history!

In the 11th grade individual championship, Nathaniel Fernandes placed 2nd overall, winning the crucial last game against the strongest player in the Junior division. Ashton Willis trailed close behind at 3rd overall after beating many opponents several hundred points higher rated than himself. The Junior team, although missing their 3rd team member, still miraculously won 2nd place!

In the 10th grade individual championship, the lone sophomore Jacob Buergler won a glorious 2nd place after fighting through many Expert rated opponents in one of the most competitive divisions of the entire tournament.

In the 9th grade individual championship, Hurley Qi and Janri Brillantes won 9th and 10th places respectively. Special recognition to Nhat Tong and Julio Ramirez who contributed immensely to the Freshman team’s point total, allowing the team to win 1st place!

The team members continue to train for difficult competitions around Houston and look to defend their 2 year title as the winners of the Houston Catholic School Championship in May. Go Crusaders!