Even if it means sacrificing a few wins, Herx and Lewis make sure the kids stay challenged. They moved one student who had won 11 games out of 12 from the elementary novice section to the intermediate section. And when the whole team appeared to master the elementary novice division, Lewis entered all the kids into the elementary intermediate section at the City Championship on Dec. 29. The kids placed eighth out of 23 schools, even though it was their first time competing at that level. One of the students, fourth grader Calvin Mceachron, was accidentally entered into the junior high school section, yet he won three out of five games.
Parents are proud of the strides the team has made.
My son was heartbroken when he couldn't go to a tournament last week. They keep trying even if they lose or they win. They show commitment. School staff and parents say the kids benefit in a number of ways. Even the kids admit there are educational benefits.