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Chess champions in the making

Chess has flourished at Mazenod since it was first introduced in the foundation years of the College. For many years, the endurance of Mazenod as a competitive chess school has been due in no small way, to the efforts of Noel Jenkinson.  In 2012, with the enthusiasm of rector, Fr Michael Twigg OMI, chess was introduced onto the first 3 weeks of House Sports curriculum for Year 7 students. This decision was supported by research on the value of chess in developing critical thinking, socialisation and decision-making skills.  The images here were taken in the Library on the first day of the program with Year 13 students. The skill level amongst Year 7 students varied from novice to expert. All students were involved and enthusiastic, even those who had little or no experience.

In the 2012 Mazenodian , Chess Prefect Enosh Kennedy reported the Chess Club had 60 members. He wrote of the valued knowledge of experienced coach Mr Don Machel. Don attended the College each week for many years. He was a popular coach and raised Mazenod students to become one of the top Chess Schools in the state, competing within the ACC and Independent schools competitions.  They were also successful in The Chess Kids Open competitions. Success has taken them to victory in local, statewide and national competitions over the years. 

Chess talent comes from all year levels at Mazenod. It’s a great leveller and the Library is a convenient venue for students to share skills and compete when not in class.

You are invited to access digital copies of all past Mazenodian magazines in the Mazenod College Digital Archive.

If you have memorabilia from your association with the College and would be willing to contribute it to the College Archives, we would be most grateful.

You may contact the archives at archives@mazenod.vic.edu.au.

Camilla Elliott

College Archivist