Chess Grows in Punta del Este: An Educational and Social Proposal for Children and Young People

In Punta del Este, chess has a new gathering space. The Punta del Este Chess Club, coordinated by teacher and international instructor Eduardo Muzzi, opens its doors to children and young people to learn, compete, and discover in the board a tool for intellectual and personal growth.

Eduardo Muzzi and the commitment to chess in the city

In Punta del Este, chess found new momentum through Eduardo Muzzi, a teacher, instructor, and international arbiter certified by FIDE. With more than a decade of experience promoting chess in Uruguay, Muzzi now coordinates the Punta del Este Chess Club, a project that combines technical teaching, recreational activities, and tournaments, with the goal of bringing the game closer to children.

—Who is behind this project?
“I’ve worked in education for more than ten years and I’m dedicated to promoting chess in Uruguay. I currently coordinate the Punta del Este Chess Club, a space designed for children and young people who want to grow with this game,” explains Muzzi.

A space born from children’s enthusiasm

The club emerged from the enthusiasm of several local children who were looking for a space to keep learning. With the support of the Tino Oliva family, the idea grew into a place that today brings together beginners and experienced players.

—What benefits does chess have in childhood?
“Chess stimulates concentration, memory, logic, and creativity. It also teaches respect, patience, and tolerance for frustration. We want children to understand that losing isn’t a failure, but part of learning,” Muzzi points out.

Tournaments and notable achievements

Tournaments are a fundamental part of the club’s offering. Beyond competition, they provide a unique social and educational experience that teaches how to handle pressure and value effort.
Many of the students have already represented the city and the country in national and international competitions, which motivates them to keep growing both on and off the board.

$4500Classes, schedules, and costs

Classes are held on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in room 2 of the Punta del Este Municipality, on Gorlero. On Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m. there is also an open play session.

The membership system can be quarterly, biannual, or annual, at accessible rates, and includes four in-person classes per month, access to the virtual study room, and participation in masterclasses with guest masters. The first class is always free.

Memberships:
– Pawn: $2500 (3 months)
– Rook: $4500 (6 months)
– King: $7750 (12 months)

—What sets the club apart?
“That learning is playful and participatory. Every session combines theory and practice, but the most important thing is that children enjoy themselves, learn to think calmly, and share with others,” Muzzi highlights.

An open invitation to families

Beyond winning or losing, the club invites every child to discover in chess a tool to learn to concentrate, respect others, and enjoy their own effort.

The Punta del Este Chess Club invites children and families to join and discover in the board much more than a game: a way to learn, grow, and share.