Chess at schools in Mayo on the rise as regional tournaments kick off

Chess played at schools tournaments is taking off in Mayo and indeed the whole country.

Over the past few weeks, the halls of Aghamore, Balla, Knockmore, Garrymore, have been buzzing with the focus and excitement of hundreds of young players.

There will be a Feile Fichille (local chess tournament) on this Friday March 6, in the TF Royal. There will be 144 pupils attending that event.

This serves as a lead-up to a major "Comórtas" (Competition) which will be held at the TF Royal in Castlebar as well, on Friday April 17.

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On this day, 140 students will be sitting in silence, full concentration, representing their schools.

What is Ficheall? Ficheall (the Irish word for chess) is a national network of primary teachers who promote chess not just as a game, but as a vital tool for social and cognitive development.

The "Féile Fichille" (Chess Festivals) are unique because they prioritize participation over trophies. In an era of intense competition, Ficheall offers a "non-competitive" environment where students wear their school jerseys with pride, shake hands before every match, and learn the value of "winning with grace and losing with dignity."

The Growth in Mayo (By the Numbers): The surge of interest in Mayo has been nothing short of extraordinary. 

Participation Spike: This year, 46 primary schools across Mayo have taken part, a significant jump from 33 schools last year.

Player Volume: We have seen 780 pupils competing in our regional tournaments this term alone.

National Context: Nationwide, Ficheall has grown from just 200 players in 2017 to over 17,000 students in 2026.

809 Schools nationwide take part.

Inclusive Play: Each tournament features two sections: "Buds" (3rd & 4th class) and "Masters" (5th & 6th class), ensuring students play against others of similar ability.

Chess is proving to be a "level playing field" in our schools, particularly for students with SEN, ADHD, or autism, who often find the quiet, structured environment of the chessboard to be a place where they truly excel.

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