“To parents: Whether you enroll [your kids] in [our] camps or one of our competitors, put them in chess. It’s very, very good for everything.”
Kevin McConnell is a dad of three and the Executive Director of PALs Chess Academy, one of Colorado’s largest chess enrichment programs. Kevin’s journey with chess started after his oldest son, Griffin, begged to learn how to play at just age four. Soon after, it became a family affair, and the McConnells began traveling for competitions. Their shared love for the game became a source of connection and growth for them all, particularly during hard times.
The McConnells have faced numerous challenges as a family, including Griffin’s multiple brain surgeries. Those surgeries were a difficult and uncertain time for the McConnell family, but chess became a grounding force amid the stress. For Kevin, watching his son find strength and confidence through the game only deepened his commitment to sharing chess as a tool for resilience and community. In 2023, the McConnell family took over PALs Chess Academy, an opportunity that has allowed them to create a supportive space for chess enthusiasts.
Kevin is passionate about providing meaningful mentorship and inclusive opportunities for young players. He’s especially driven to expand access to chess for girls, noting that chess tends to be male-dominated. To support this goal, PALs will be hosting their first-ever Rocky Mountain All-Girls Chess Camp. Kevin is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment where young players from all backgrounds can develop their skills and enjoy the game of chess.
