University of the Pacific Chess Club Secures First Place at 2026 Pan-American Intercollegiate Championship
The University of the Pacific Chess Club has achieved a significant milestone, securing first place in its category at the 2026 Pan-American Intercollegiate Chess Championship. This victory marks the club’s return to national competition after a six-year hiatus, demonstrating the strength and dedication of its student players.
Victory at the Pan-American Intercollegiate Championship
In a field of 24 teams, the Pacific Chess Club entered the tournament as the No. 7 seed in the under-1400 section. Over six rounds of head-to-head competition, the team compiled a 5-1 record to claim the title. The victory was particularly notable as it came against teams from prestigious institutions including Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and the University of Texas.
The championship, sanctioned by the U.S. Chess Federation, was held in Oak Brook, Illinois. For many team members, this was their first experience competing at a national, over-the-board tournament rather than online.
Meet the Winning Team
The championship team consisted of four dedicated students:
- Peter Lee ’25: Graduated in December and secured first place for individual board performance.
- Weili Lu Du ’26: A key contributor to the team’s overall success.
- Vu Thien Nhi Do ’25, ’27: Achieved an impressive perfect score, winning all six of her games and earning the title of Top Female Player.
- Prabhleen Gill ’26: Competed in her first national over-the-board tournament.
Individual Achievements and Perspectives
Team members expressed both surprise and excitement at their success. “I was really surprised,” said Vu Thien Nhi Do. “There were a lot of strong female players from other schools, especially on the top boards. Getting to play them was really exciting.”
For Prabhleen Gill, the transition from online to physical chess presented a new challenge. “It was a really different experience,” Gill noted. “I usually play online, so adjusting to playing on a physical board was tough at first. I learned a lot and definitely want to play more tournaments.”
The Unique Dynamics of In-Person Chess Competition
Competing in person brings a different kind of pressure and fosters a unique sense of sportsmanship, according to team members. Do highlighted how the tournament structure encourages camaraderie: “Your tiebreaks depend on how well your opponents do, so you actually want them to perform well. It creates a friendly environment. People you played earlier in the tournament would come up later just to check in and wish you luck.”
This collaborative spirit, combined with the intense focus required for over-the-board play, creates a distinct competitive atmosphere that differs significantly from online chess platforms.
The Pacific Chess Club: Community and Competition
The University of the Pacific Chess Club serves a diverse student body, welcoming both competitive players and those who play for recreation. The club holds weekly meetings where students can play against fellow students and community members from Stockton.
Since spring 2024, the club has expanded its activities to include an open chess tournament each semester, inviting both students and local players to compete. The club is planning to host another tournament in March, continuing its commitment to fostering a vibrant chess community on campus and beyond.
Looking Ahead: Building on Success
This championship victory represents more than just a trophy; it signifies the revitalization of Pacific’s chess program and its potential for future growth. The experience gained at the national level will undoubtedly strengthen the club’s competitive edge and attract new members.
For students interested in joining a community that values both strategic thinking and sportsmanship, the Pacific Chess Club offers an inclusive environment. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, the club provides opportunities for growth, competition, and connection.
Get Involved with Pacific’s Chess Community
The University of the Pacific Chess Club’s success at the Pan-American Intercollegiate Championship highlights the university’s commitment to providing diverse extracurricular opportunities that complement academic pursuits. The club’s achievements demonstrate how student-led organizations can excel on national stages.
Students interested in joining the Pacific Chess Club or learning more about upcoming tournaments can connect with the club through the university’s student activities portal. The club welcomes all skill levels and is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for chess enthusiasts.
For prospective students considering the University of the Pacific, the success of student organizations like the Chess Club illustrates the vibrant campus life and opportunities for personal development available at the university.
Explore Student Life at Pacific
The Chess Club is just one of many student organizations at the University of the Pacific. The university offers a wide range of clubs, activities, and programs designed to enrich the student experience and foster community engagement.
Discover how you can become part of Pacific’s dynamic student community and explore the many opportunities available for personal and professional growth.
Connect with Pacific
Learn more about the University of the Pacific’s academic programs, campus life, and student organizations. Visit the university’s website to explore undergraduate and graduate programs, schedule a campus tour, or request information about admission and financial aid.
The Pacific Chess Club’s championship victory is a testament to the university’s supportive environment where students can pursue their passions and achieve excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
