Deb Malewski
Contributing Writer

(Deb Malewski/FAN – Players of any age and level are welcome and found at the Eaton Rapids Chess Club, playing at Mark’s Place on Main Street.)

In chess, every game begins with a single move. In Eaton Rapids, that first move has become the start of new friendships, sharpened minds, and a growing community of players.

The Eaton Rapids Chess Club was founded in February 2026 by Malachi King of Eaton Rapids. The group meets at Mark’s Place, 238 South Main St., every Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome, although children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult.

“It’s a very casual setup,” King explained. “There’s no cost, bring a board if you have one, and drop in anytime between noon and three.”

King learned to play chess from his mother before he even entered kindergarten. By elementary school, he was able to beat her at the game. In high school, his interest grew more serious. He studied books on chess strategy and began playing against his computer before eventually competing online against players from around the world.

Chess has remained one of King’s favorite hobbies.

“It’s pure calculations,” he said. “There’s no chance, no luck involved. It’s a puzzle game. It’s a battle.”

Yet for King, the social aspect of chess is just as important as the strategy.

“There’s nothing like playing over the board,” he said. “You become part of a community, part of a group. We encourage, teach, learn, and make new friends. It’s very fun.”

The Eaton Rapids Chess Club is actually the fourth club King has started. Previous clubs were established in Hastings, at Grand Valley State University, and at Grand Rapids Community College.

His Hastings club proved especially meaningful because it is where he met his wife, Carrie, despite the fact that she does not play chess. Today, King enjoys playing online correspondence chess with his son, who is deployed with the U.S. Air Force, with each player making a move every day or so.

“It’s a nice father-son activity despite the distance,” King said.

Club member Rick Loftus shared a story that illustrates both the challenge and the humor that comes with the game.

“Lots of talent across those squares,” Loftus said. “Last week I played against a young fellow who might have been about 9 years old. Midway through the game he asked, ‘Are you new? You’re actually playing very well.’ In that moment I knew we weren’t midway through the match. Not even close. A few moves later I toppled my king and shook hands. Maybe next time. And no, I’m not new. I’ve been playing for 60 years. Ouch.”

For more information, visit the Facebook page Eaton Rapids Chess Club.