CHESS MATE, SMEAC’s dedicated chess club, provides a calm and welcoming space where veterans and community members alike can gather, unwind, and engage their minds.

Chess offers more than just strategic gameplay – it encourages focus, patience, and problem-solving, all of which are valuable tools for mental wellbeing.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just learning the basics, CHESS MATE is a place where everyone is welcome to pull up a chair and join in.

The club operates in a relaxed environment designed to reduce stress and promote social interaction. It’s not about competition, but camaraderie.

Veterans often find common ground around the board, with conversations flowing naturally as games unfold. This simple, structured activity creates powerful moments of connection, helping reduce feelings of isolation and bringing a sense of routine and normalcy to those adjusting to civilian life.

Beyond the chessboard, CHESS MATE also serves as a quiet bridge between veterans and the wider community.

Friends, families, and local supporters are encouraged to participate, fostering intergenerational interaction and mutual understanding.

It’s one of the many ways SMEAC brings people together – through shared interest, mutual respect, and the simple joy of a good game.