By Vladimir Lionter
The cognitive benefits of chess are well-documented. The game requires players to anticipate their opponent’s moves, evaluate multiple possibilities and devise strategies under pressure — skills that are directly transferable to police work.
Officers who engage in chess can improve their critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and patience. Moreover, the mental discipline developed through chess can help officers remain calm and composed in high-stress situations. The most famous chess player, who worked in law enforcement, was Alexander Alekhine, the fourth world champion, who served in the Moscow criminal investigation department.
Many police departments in the U.S. have recognized the value of chess and have established chess clubs to promote intellectual growth and camaraderie among their officers.
Here are some notable examples:
1. Virginia Beach (Va.) Police Department Chess Club
Virginia Beach PD Lt. Kevin Lokey created the Blue Knights Youth Chess Club. This Chess Club offers kids, teenagers and police officers a constructive outlet for stress, as well as a platform for developing critical thinking skills. The club hosts regular competitions and has participated in interdepartmental tournaments, creating opportunities for officers to network and share experiences. Virginia Beach Police Department also uses chess as a tool for community engagement, partnering with local schools to mentor students.
2. Chicago Police Department (CPD) Chess Club
The CPD Chess Club is dedicated to promoting mental fitness and camaraderie among its members. The club provides a supportive environment where officers can unwind and challenge themselves intellectually. In addition to internal events, the CPD Chess Club collaborates with local organizations to host charity tournaments, raising funds for various community initiatives.
3. Seattle Police Department (SPD) Chess Club
The opening of this Chess Club in 2006 was a private initiative of Detective Denise “Cookie” Bouldin. The Chess Club has become one of the local centers for children’s chess with the active participation of the community. The Detective “Cookie” Chess Park emphasizes the role of chess in enhancing cognitive abilities and fostering teamwork. The club regularly organizes chess tournaments and workshops, inviting experts to share advanced strategies and techniques. SPD officers who participate in the club report improved analytical skills and a greater sense of community within the department.
4. New York Police Department (NYPD) Chess Club
The NYPD Chess Club is one of the most prominent in the country. Established in 2020 to foster team spirit and mental agility, the club has become a popular activity among officers. Members meet regularly for matches, training sessions and tournaments. The club also engages with the community by organizing events and chess workshops for local youth, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and fair play.
Below is my conversation with NYPD Chess Club founder Sgt. Chris Gutierrez to learn more about the club’s origins, growth, and its impact on members and the community.
Q&A with NYPD Chess Club founder Sgt. Chris Gutierrez
Vladimir Lionter: Can you share what inspired you to start the NYPD Chess Club in 2020?
Chris Gutierrez: Witnessing the shared passion for chess amongst colleagues like Officer Candelaria inspired me to create a platform for this community within the NYPD.
How has the NYPD Chess Club evolved since its inception?
We’ve grown from informal gatherings to a multifaceted club with online and in-person play, merchandise and tournament participation.
What are some milestones or achievements that stand out to you?
Invitations to prestigious events like Family Day at the academy highlight the club’s growing recognition.
What role does chess play in the lives of NYPD officers, both professionally and personally?
Chess cultivates essential skills like strategic thinking, adaptability and decision-making — mirroring challenges faced on patrol. Personally, it offers mental stimulation and stress relief.
Could you describe a typical meeting or event organized by the NYPD Chess Club?
Gatherings center around over-the-board play, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and improvement.
What activities or competitions do you usually engage in?
We primarily focus on internal matches, with the upcoming Police and Fire Games as a key goal.
How does participation in the chess club contribute to camaraderie and teamwork within the NYPD?
The club facilitates communication and connection, fostering camaraderie and enabling the organization of events.
In what ways does chess training enhance critical thinking and decision-making skills among officers?
Chess demands mental agility, strategic planning and adaptability — skills directly applicable to police work.
Have there been any notable collaborations or partnerships involving the NYPD Chess Club since its formation?
No formal collaborations yet, but we are eager to connect with others through events like the Police and Fire Games.
What are your future plans or goals for the NYPD Chess Club?
Excelling in the Police and Fire Games is our immediate goal, with ongoing exploration of growth and community engagement opportunities.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
The Police and Fire Games are a major focus, alongside potential community outreach initiatives to share the benefits of chess.
How does the NYPD Chess Club promote mental wellness and stress relief among its members?
The club offers a supportive environment for connection, relaxation and intellectual engagement — contributing to mental wellbeing.
About the author
Vladimir Lionter is a journalist and chess enthusiast based in New York. His interests include exploring the connections between strategy, education and culture, as well as photography.