06/08/2026
Farewell to chess a message from our director- Chris Bruceri
This is a bitter sweet message and was difficult to write.
After more than a decade ( 11 years) dedicated to the game I love, the time has come for me to step away from the chess world and officially close this chapter of my life.
When I first learned chess in 2015, I never could have predicted where this journey would take me. It started with the thrill of competition, from winning tournaments in the 8th grade to taking 2nd in the GSL Individual Championship at Shadle Park High School, and eventually ranking as the 10th best high school senior in Washington. I’ve had the unforgettable experience of getting my butt kicked by a National Master, playing in a multiple simul’s against an IM, and trading blitz moves with a GM.
But as much as I loved playing, I quickly realized that my true purpose was building something bigger than myself.
My initial dream was simply to support high school chess, but that vision grew. I wanted to build a bridge to middle school students, to adults, and to the entire Spokane community. Through the Greater Spokane Chess League, we didn't just play games; we changed the landscape of the region.
With all the programs we started, the events we achieved and the game continued to grow under the 4 years I’ve had to push this organization was amazing, an unforgettable experience and contribution to Spokane Chess.
To my Parents, Kevin Masteller, James Stripes, Kevin Korsmo, Inland Chess Academy, Spokane Chess Club, Washington Chess Federation and all the students I’ve ever coached and, our local business partners, and every player, parent, and organizer who ever shared a room or a board with me, thank you. Thank you for trusting me, working alongside me, and helping me turn a vision into a reality.
I am incredibly proud of what I’ve built and the history we made together. As I officially close this chapter, dissolve the league and make sure it’s handled properly to honor and to focus on new horizons, I leave knowing we accomplished everything we set out to do.
Everything I was able to achieve is proof that passion, persistence, and a dedication to service can take you all the way to the top. We changed the game in Spokane, and that is a legacy that will always remain.
Keep playing, keep thinking ahead, and keep growing the game.
From my first chess game in 2015 to helping build something larger than myself, it has been an incredible journey.
Will keep you updated on the next steps for the chess league.
