By Aaron Allen, The Seattle Medium
Last weekend, 100 kids participated in the first annual Detective Cookie Chess Classic Tournament, featuring five rounds of competition. The tournament took place at the Rainier Beach Community Center in South Seattle.
“The tournament gave people a sense of knowing about the Det. Cookie Chess Club and the desire for their children to participate,” says Det. Cookie Bouldin, founder of the Det. Cookie Chess Club. “We made it possible for parents to know that there is a safe space for their children to go and be involved in a positive activity.”
The event welcomed students of all ages and grades, from K-12, as well as those who support the development of our community’s children and chess enthusiasts. This tournament was also a significant milestone for the Detective Cookie Chess Club as it marked their first official tournament as a member of the state chess federation.
The club, named after Det. Denise “Cookie” Bouldin of the Seattle Police Department (SPD), commonly known as Det. Cookie, not only introduces young people to the game of chess but also helps them build self-esteem, problem-solving skills, and competitive sportsmanship through non-physical competition.
For the past sixteen years, Det. Cookie has been running the chess club at the Rainier Beach Community Center, various schools in the area, and the Rainier Beach library. Last year, a remarkable chess park was constructed in the Rainier Beach area to honor Det. Cookie and recognize the impact her chess club has had on residents and youth.
“The Det. Cookie Chess Club has been a dream of mine for many years,” says Bouldin. “To see my dream become a reality is a dream come true.”
According to Bouldin, chess enhances overall cognitive abilities for those who engage in this ancient game. It develops analytical thinking, decision-making skills, perspective-taking abilities, creativity, planning skills, and can even make therapy more effective. Chess can also improve patience, memory, and, in some cases, alleviate symptoms of ADHD.
“In the game of life, we are the chess pieces, and we must recognize and take advantage of opportunities while considering all possibilities before committing to or acting on a decision,” says Bouldin. “Chess gives young people and children the opportunity to learn this valuable lesson.”
As the tournament progressed and the competition intensified, the Det. Cookie Chess Club demonstrated their skills and emerged victorious, claiming the top prize.
