Study the last move
Every move changes the board. Ask what your opponent attacked, protected, or revealed.
Atlanta-born chess education
Learn chess.
Think ahead.
Make better moves.
Bankhead Chess helps young people build focus, discipline, confidence, and decision-making skills through the game of chess.
30+ years of chess thinkingRooted in AtlantaBuilt for beginners
The next move starts before you touch a piece.Observe. Think. Decide.
More than a board game
Chess trains the habits that life demands.
Students learn to slow down, recognize patterns, weigh consequences, recover from mistakes, and act with purpose. The board becomes a safe place to practice better judgment.
Read the Bankhead Chess story →Our signature method
The Garner Rules
A practical framework created by Richard Garner to help beginners simplify the game and make stronger decisions.
Look for the threat
Check for mate, danger to your queen, and pieces that may be hanging before starting your plan.
Develop with purpose
Activate bishops and knights early, protect the king, and avoid wasting moves.
Think beyond the board
Consider consequences. Make the move that improves your position, not just the move that feels exciting.
Ways to learn
A clear path for every player.
Programs can be adapted for first-time players, families, schools, and community organizations.
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Youth Programs
Structured beginner instruction that builds chess skills, confidence, and healthy competition.
View youth programs →♜
School Partnerships
After-school clubs, enrichment workshops, and custom chess programming for educators.
Request a school program →♞
Community Workshops
Engaging chess experiences for churches, libraries, recreation centers, and nonprofits.
Explore workshops →
Replace with an authentic photo of Richard teaching or playing chess.
The founder's story
Born on Bankhead.
Built for the next generation.
Richard “Icky” Garner grew up near Bankhead Highway in Atlanta. Chess taught him how preparation, patience, and consequences shape outcomes. As an educator, he brought those lessons into the classroom.
“Chess gives young people a place to practice making decisions before the stakes become real.”Meet Richard Garner
A story worth building on
In 1997, 37 students showed up for 27 chess sets.
The demand was clear. Young people wanted a challenge, a community, and a productive way to use their minds. Bankhead Chess exists to create more of those opportunities.
37students in the original Bankhead Elementary after-school chess club
Your move
Build a stronger thinker.
Enroll a learner, bring Bankhead Chess to your organization, or help fund access for Atlanta youth.