About
Silver Knights Chess Academy is a premier scholastic chess organization offering a comprehensive range of programs for young players. Founded in 2004 by Adam Weissbarth, the academy has grown to serve over 120,000 students nationwide through its Online Chess Academy and in-person programs across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. The Online Academy is the United States' leading chess program for tournament players, reaching students in all 50 states. It features structured curriculum, regular class sessions, weekly progress updates for parents, and a competitive track that has produced 11 scholastic state champions in 2025 alone. Students can start with a $5 trial class before committing to the full academy. In-person offerings include school-based chess clubs in 350+ elementary schools, over 150 week-long summer and school-break chess camps, and tournaments for all skill levels. Programs are designed for complete beginners through advanced competitive players. Parents appreciate the consistent communication, supportive coaching staff, and the academy's ability to foster a genuine love for the game. Whether online or in-person, Silver Knights emphasizes both skill-building and the broader cognitive and social benefits chess provides children throughout their lives.
Key Features
- Online Chess Academy: Structured online classes for tournament players across all 50 US states, with weekly progress reports and a proven track record of producing state champions.
- In-Person School Clubs: School-based chess clubs operating in 350+ elementary schools throughout Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC.
- Chess Camps: Over 150 week-long chess camps offered throughout the year, including summer camps and school-break sessions, both online and in-person.
- Tournaments: Competitive tournaments for players of all skill levels held regularly across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC.
- Trial Class for $5: New students can try an online class for just $5 before committing to a full academy membership.
Use Cases
- A parent enrolling their elementary-school-aged child in online chess classes to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- A school administrator partnering with Silver Knights to launch an after-school chess club at their elementary school.
- A competitive middle schooler joining the Elite Academy to train for state and national scholastic chess championships.
- A family signing up their child for a week-long summer chess camp during school break in the Northern Virginia area.
- A beginner student taking a $5 trial class to see if structured chess instruction is a good fit before committing to a full membership.
Pros
- Proven Track Record: Over 120,000 students served and 11 scholastic state champions produced in 2025 alone, demonstrating strong educational outcomes.
- Flexible Learning Options: Both online and in-person formats available, making the academy accessible to students regardless of location.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: Programs designed for complete beginners through competitive tournament players, with structured progression paths.
- Strong Parent Communication: Weekly progress updates and coach engagement keep parents informed and involved in their child's development.
Cons
- In-Person Programs Regionally Limited: Physical clubs, camps, and tournaments are only available in the Baltimore-Washington Metro Area (Virginia, Maryland, DC).
- Focused on Youth Only: Programs are specifically designed for scholastic (K-12) players, leaving adult learners without a suitable offering.
- Paid Subscription Required: Beyond the $5 trial class, ongoing participation requires a paid membership, which may not suit all budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age groups does Silver Knights Chess Academy serve?
Silver Knights primarily serves scholastic (K-12) players, from complete beginners in elementary school through advanced high school competitors.
Is the Online Academy available outside the Baltimore-Washington area?
Yes, the Online Chess Academy serves students in all 50 US states, while in-person clubs, camps, and tournaments are limited to Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC.
How can my child try the program before committing?
New students can join a trial online class for just $5 to experience the curriculum and coaching style before enrolling in the full academy.
What level of chess experience is required to join?
No prior experience is required. Programs are available for complete beginners as well as experienced tournament players, with appropriate tracks for each skill level.
What is the difference between the Academy and the Elite Academy?
The standard Online Academy covers foundational and intermediate chess instruction, while the Elite Academy is designed for more advanced, competitive players looking to excel in scholastic tournaments.
