Our mission

ChessStar was founded in December of 2020 during the Covid-19 Pandemic. The move to virtual learning in schools combined with educational funding cuts caused many students to lose access to learning chess through their schools.

ChessStar's goal is to increase access to learning chess for everyone. Students across the globe can learn chess for free through virtual lessons, instructional content, resources, and fun tournaments with prizes.

ChessStar's programming is made possible through monetary support provided by the Hershey Company, WE Charity, and Minnesota Alliance with Youth. We are also grateful to our generous donors and valuable partnerships.

Our Leadership

Sidarth Gazula

Nastassja Matus

Sidarth is a senior at Wayzata High School and has been playing chess for nearly a decade. In 2019, Sidarth won the Minnesota Open (U2000), and he has won the state scholastic championship three years in a row. Outside of playing chess, Sidarth is passionate about math, civic engagement, and making coffee.

Minnesota Open (U2000) Champion, US Class Championships (Class A) Runner-up, #11 Online Quick USCF Rated (U18), 1962 Peak USCF Rating, Captain of Wayzata Chess Club

Nastassja is a senior at Wayzata High School and is a Women's FIDE Master (WFM) and US National Master (NM). Nastassja has played in numerous elite junior tournaments across the globe, including the Pan American, North American, and World Youth Chess Championships.

Susan Polgar Girls Invitational Champion, World Youth Championship Runner-up (U-12), North American Youth Championships Runner-up (U18), 2205 Peak USCF Rating, Captain of Wayzata Chess Club