US Chess Serves Intrigue, Excitement at US Squash Super JCT

This past weekend, I had the privilege of representing US Chess at the US Squash Junior Championship Tour (JCT) competition in Philadelphia, PA. As the Director of Programs for US Chess, I’m always on the lookout for unique opportunities to bridge communities and bring chess to unexpected places — and this event did not disappoint.

A student caught playing chess during a team meeting. Which US Chess would never condone.

Busted! Squash players have been known to sneak in a game of chess between matches. (Photo by DeVaughn Croxton)

I had heard rumors that, between rounds, many of the kids at squash tournaments are glued to the chess apps on their phones and tablets. So, what would happen if I set up a table with a full array of boards, clocks, and magazines?

Stationed with a chess table at the Arlen Specter US Squash Center, I was met with a warm and curious crowd of players, families, and coaches. Throughout the weekend, young squash players and their siblings took breaks between matches to sit down at the board and dive into battles of a different kind. Some were seasoned players, others complete beginners, but all shared an infectious enthusiasm that reminded me why chess continues to thrive across generations and spaces.

To make the weekend even more memorable, I was joined by none other than GM Brewington Hardaway. Traveling in from New York, GM Hardaway brought his signature charm and fearless energy to the table, taking on all challengers with grace and fierceness. Watching wide-eyed juniors and intrigued parents light up when they realized they were playing a “real grandmaster” was something special. For many, it was their first experience playing against such a high-level competitor — and for some, it sparked a whole new interest in the game.

Photo by DeVaughn Croxton

In addition to the chess table, I was proud to donate a collection of Chess Life magazines, as well as chess boards, sets, and clocks to the US Squash organization. These resources are now in their hands to incorporate chess into their future programming—whether as a cool mental warm-up for players or simply a fun, social way to pass time between matches.

The overlap between chess and squash—two sports built on strategy, precision, and mental toughness—is something truly worth exploring, and this budding partnership could open the door to exciting new initiatives for both communities.

DeVaughn Croxton versus a hand-and-brain duo (Photo courtesy of the subjects)

When I wasn’t hosting the table or trading moves with attendees, I had the pleasure of spectating some truly elite squash. I watched fierce, high-level junior matches filled with athleticism and grit. I even had the chance to witness the Men’s and Women’s National Pro Finals — an absolute highlight of the weekend. The intensity on display was jaw-dropping and gave me a new appreciation for the mental and physical dedication squash demands.

More than anything, I’m grateful for the invitation and the spirit of collaboration extended by US Squash. This event was a shining example of how two distinct communities — bound by a love of competition, critical thinking, and personal growth — can come together and create something meaningful.

I look forward to continuing this cross-sport connection and building new ways for players of both games to engage, learn, and grow together. Until next time — see you at the board… or the court!

DeVaughn Croxton is the Director of Programs for US Chess and the host of the US Chess podcast Beyond the Board.