Welcome to the Hoosier Chess Academy!

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering chess programs to PK-12 children and adults in Southern Indiana

Chess activities:

LET US RUN A CHESS PROGRAM AT YOUR SCHOOL!

Let’s get minds thinking critically, creatively, productively, patiently, flexibly, and confidently.

VIEW OUR TOURNAMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Let’s come together to put our knowledge and learning to practice.

VIEW DETAILS ABOUT SUMMER 2025 CHESS CAMP

Let’s keep children engaged and excited over the summer with weekly camps at manageable prices.

OUR COMMUNITY IMPACT:

40 students participated at club meetings during the 2024-25 season.

150+ students are projected to enroll in after-school chess enrichment at 5 school sites in 2025-26.

45 campers participated in camp sessions in Summers 2024 and 2025.

CHESS IS…

Logic…Problem-solving…Critical thinking…Patience…Flexibility…A safe space…Teamwork…Sportsmanship…Resilience…Emotional regulation…Socialization…Competition…A game for EVERYBODY!


  • “Chess is like a puzzle I get to solve every game. It’s fun and challenging!”

    Ritika, University Elementary chess student

  • “Playing chess helps develop thinking skills—and especially when you’re living in a foreign country, it’s a great way to make new friends.”

    Jason, University Elementary chess student

  • "My older brother plays chess. I realized there's no game quite like it, and it challenges my brain to think in unique ways."

    Kai, HCA chess camper

  • "Students who play chess are better equipped for life. The game offers a safe space for children who may not otherwise have safety at home. I love watching our chess kids enjoy the game and succeed in a whole range of academic and social areas because of it."

    Ben Foley, President & Director

Meet, play, and learn from a Woman International Master! August 16-17, 2025

 See what’s happening next:

In a nutshell:

Get to know us:

  • Ben Foley

    President & Director

  • Steve Volan

    Vice President

  • Rebecca Harris

    Secretary

  • Jimmy Brown

    Sunday Club Meetings, Program Instructor

  • Vedanta Das

    Program Instructor

  • Adrian Polit

    Sunday Club Meetings Instructor

  • Shashank Badrinarayanan

    Program Instructional Aide

  • Mahir Shah

    Program Instructional Aide

Our partners: