Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Toolin.
Christopher, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
The North Texas Chess Academy opened in June of 2016 at the NE corner of N. Josey Lane and Rosemeade in Carrollton. The combination of a jovial chess master and a savvy entrepreneur has produced one of the nation’s best venues for chess and is making a positive influence on the community. Co-founder Jeff Sullivan and myself continue to spread the enjoyment of chess and aim to help all those that walk through our doors.
Why Chess?
Chess has been played for centuries and offers life lessons for the astute observer, as well as being just plain fun! The benefits of chess are well documented, including increased test scores, concentration, decision making, confidence and meeting a diverse group of friends. When choosing activities for their children, some parents may not think of chess as an option. The North Texas Chess Academy is changing all of that by providing an outlet for hundreds of children to grow and learn.
Why North Texas?
DFW is a hotbed for promising chess players. In addition to the many bright young minds in the area, there are also world-class players right here in DFW, I graduated from UT Dallas in 2008 and after growing my circle of students to a good number decided it was time for a change. Local entrepreneur Jeff Sullivan continues to be a driving force in the growth of the Academy, his Texas-sized ideas, professionalism, and hard work is just a few of the keys that have made the NTCA a huge success over the last three years.
What’s Next?
As the Academy continues to expand, we are working hard to create new events, activities, and programs to further spread our message. The amazing success of the NTCA in Carrollton has made a second Academy very likely in the near future. If you or anyone you know is interested in chess or would like to learn, please call or drop in and we would love to help.
Has it been a smooth road?
Every new venture comes with challenges and the NTCA was no different. Two key employees decided to move on after the first six months leaving us with fewer hands and an increasing workload. The reputation for chess is that of respect and dignity, however, it has often lacked organization. By working on the process’ and building a true organization, we have overcome those early speed bumps. Every day, new challenges present themselves and we are ready to meet them head-on.
What else should our readers know?
The North Texas Chess Academy (NTCA) offers chess classes for all levels, camps, tournaments, and over 30 after-school programs throughout DFW. Students and players range from as young as six to senior citizens, all looking to improve their skills. All ages and abilities are welcome at the home of chess in Dallas/Fort Worth.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Carrollton has been a great location for the North Texas Chess Academy. It is centrally located providing easy access from Dallas, Plano, Irving, and Frisco. Carrollton is also a cost-effective city compared to real estate in other locations while maintaining the quality we desired. It may not work for all business models however, for us, Carrollton has been wonderful.
Pricing:
- Classes begin at $25/hr or $85/four hrs
- Weekly tournaments are $20
- Seasonal Camps start at $150/week (15 hours)
Contact Info:
- Address: 3730 N. Josey Ln. #124
- Website: North Texas Chess Academy
- Phone: 469-900-8014
- Email: info@northtexaschessacademy.com
- Instagram: none
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northtexaschessacademy
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/NTxChessAcademy
Image Credit:
Christopher Toolin, Jeff Sullivan
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