Sandy Staab has had an extraordinary journey from a technology programming veteran to a chess mentor extraordinaire in the scenic landscapes of Idaho. After decades in the tech field, Sandy shifted gears to run a serene ranch, where he found an unexpected calling in the game of chess.

From receiving a chess set and books at age five to pursuing the dream of becoming a chess master as a teenager, Sandy's love for the game has been unwavering. He thrived on the thrill of understanding his opponent’s character through their strategic moves.

Following a successful career at Microsoft, Sandy's passion for mentoring young minds led him to teach chess to children. Through chess, he instills valuable life skills like critical thinking, judgment, and sportsmanship.

Beyond its strategic aspects, Sandy emphasizes the social connections that chess fosters. He values the camaraderie formed during in-person games and the life lessons learned through competition.

Sandy's dedication and impact on his community have been immense. His coaching has transformed the lives of children, inspiring personal growth and success. By teaching kids to think ahead, make informed decisions, and handle victory and defeat with grace, Sandy molds future leaders with resilience and character.

Check out the full story here!