Simultaneous Chess returns for a second year in Wassaic

WASSAIC — Chess master Bill Kroeger defeated 10 opponents in a simultaneous chess match on the Middle Meadow along Main Street on Saturday, July 11, as the community event returned for its second summer.

Players of all ages and skill levels took seats at 10 chess boards, each competing against Kroeger. Once play began, the meadow grew quiet as participants concentrated on their moves. Kroeger ultimately won all 10 matches, though some proved more challenging than others.

“It’s about how to use the Middle Meadow space creatively,” said event organizer Sharon Kroeger, owner of Calsi’s General Store. She said the business has long served as a neighborhood anchor that adapts to the community’s needs.

The Middle Meadow was created after deteriorated buildings in Wassaic’s business district were demolished, leaving an open green space. Kroeger said the community began looking for ways to use it for public gatherings.

“We began to think about how to use the tiny meadow space, perhaps for croquet or even chess,” Kroeger said. “Chess seemed especially appealing because it could bring together people of all ages.”

She said the idea came together in part because her son, Bill, is a chess master who was eager to help organize the event and play the exhibition matches.

“Everyone is gaining something. Bill’s goal is to make it instructive and enjoyable. Someone, one day, may beat him,” Kroeger said.

Kroeger said organizers hope to make the simultaneous chess match an annual tradition. While it may eventually expand, she said growth is not the primary goal.

“We plan to do it every year,” Kroeger said.

Residents of all ages and skill levels tried their hand at chess during the second annual Chess Simultaneous Match on Saturday, July 11, on Wassaic’s Middle Meadow. An instructive community event, all players competed against a single opponent, Bill Kroeger who won every match but made the experience enjoyable for all.Photo by Leila Hawken