The ACG Sunderland Year 5 student is an ace chess player, and while many of her classmates spent Labour weekend at the beach, Sophia headed to Alfriston College to compete against 13 other schools in the Chess Power Team Nationals.
It was a successful weekend. Not only did Sophia take out second place in the individual standings, but her ACG Sunderland team – which also consists of Anya Thurner, Eric Mironov and Yolanda Chang – won the entire tournament.
“I first started playing chess through Chess Power about three years ago and really enjoy the fact that every game you play you learn a little more,” says Sophia, whose long-term dream is to secure a prestigious chess title.
She is clearly well on her way, having already won numerous trophies and medals, and been selected to represent New Zealand at the Asian Nations Online Championship.
But it’s not all just kings and queens for this multi-talented 10-year-old. When Sophia is not focussing on her next chess move, you’ll find her excelling on the netball court or making a drop shot in a game of badminton.
“I really enjoy playing sports at school – in fact, PE and sports are my favourite subjects! I love how you get to run around and have lots of fun,” she adds.
