The University Prep Science and Math Elementary chess team prevailed over about 30 Michigan schools to win the Elementary State Chess Championship at Cobo Center this past weekend. This is the elementary school team’s third winning title.
The win comes after UPSM was ranked first at the Detroit Metro Scholastic Chess League, a city-wide championship that took place in January, for the second year in a row. In May, the team of 31 elementary students will participate in the 2018 National Elementary (K-6) Championship in Nashville, Tenn.
“We are very proud of the UPSM Elementary chess team – they continue to amaze us with their competitive skills and talent,” said Mark Ornstein, CEO of University Prep Schools. “This accomplishment is the result of the student’s dedication and incredibly supportive teachers, parents and community members.”
UPSM is known for it’s strong chess program. In May of 2017, UPSM Elementary and Middle School chess teams became national champions at the Supernationals IV Tournament. Sixth grader, Cameron Rector, won the individual National Championships making him the top chess player in the nation after competing alongside 379 players. Rector won all 7 of his games.
“This was a fantastic win and the students fought down to the wire,” Robert Ellis, head coach of the UPSM Elementary chess team. “These students are brilliant and dedicated; I hope chess is a skill they will carry with them as they further their education.”
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