Florida State Youth Checkers Championship 2025 took place in Hollywood, FL on Sunday, February 9th. This tournament was organized by ACF and was played in 4 rounds of qualification with 2 rounds of playoff if tied.

Coach of Sunville Academy and ACF District 4 Manager and The National Draughts Federation of the USA (NDF-USA) president Andriy Shcherbatyuk, who organized this tournament, expresses gratitude for supporting the development of children’s checkers sport to the sponsors Mr. Joe Schwartz who establish prizes for every participant, Mr. Pat Quartucci for being a guestfull host, as well as WCDF President Dr. Richard Beckwith for support.

Three categories were distinguished in the children’s tournament. The Absolute category Champion’s trophy was confidently won by the 2024 US National Youth Champion NDF of the USA member Yevhen Bohush (8 points out of 8). Silver and Bronze medals were defined in the final match of Maksym Staroverov and Darii Shcherbatyuk. Both achieved 6 points and in the direct encounter Maksym was stronger and got a silver medal. Darii has won the bronze in the absolute category and a champion title in the Majors division (under 13).

4 players of the Major category were tied for the 2-5 places and they have played 2 rounds of play off to define a winner. As the result Zachart Stein has won both matches of the play-off and has gained a second place, third was Maxim Shubov.

Minor Division (under 10 y.o.) winner is Michael Malygin, second — Alexander Lapin, third — Yulia Shubov!

Wise parents know that Intellectual sports are making a significant positive impact on the development of cognitive processes in children and adolescents. Engaging children in checkers and draughts offers numerous developmental benefits. These games enhance concentration, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills. Players must focus intently on the board, anticipate opponents’ moves, and plan several steps ahead, fostering patience and improved problem-solving abilities. 

Congratulations to the winners and see you in the upcoming events!

Thanks for photos: Kseniia Yaremchuk, Anna Kotelnikova, Vira Klots