First (and youngest) female chess champion in the Oregon Closed Championship
Interview with Zoey Tang, champion
Zoey Tang is freshman at Standford University. She started playing chess in the 2nd grade in order to spend more time with her friend. Almost 10 years later, she is a Woman Grandmaster and state champion with a US Chess Rating of 2442. She is also the 2026 U.S. Chess Young Player of the Year!
What was your first chess club like? It was an amazing chess club. We had wonderful parent volunteers who put a lot of time into making it a fun and welcoming place for kids to learn and play. Coach Dwayne was one of the people who helped make that experience special, and he is still involved in the chess community today.
How does it feel to be state champion? It was very special because I became the youngest and first female champion in the history of the Oregon Closed Championship. Of course, winning is exciting, but I also think about all the years of studying, competing, making mistakes, and learning that led up to it. A championship is really the result of a lot of small improvements over time. It also means a lot and I hope it can encourage more girls and younger players to compete confidently.
What do you like about chess? I like that chess is both competitive and creative. There usually isn’t just one way to approach a position, and players can look at the same position very differently. I also really value the friendships and experiences chess has given me. I’ve met so many people and traveled to places that I almost certainly never would have experienced without chess.
What would you change about your chess journey? I would love to see chess become even more welcoming and accessible, especially for girls and younger players who are just starting out. Sometimes people think you have to be very serious or already very strong to belong in chess, but I think there should be a place for everyone.
What other hobbies do you have? I collect hobbies! I have always loved puzzles of all kinds, including jigsaw puzzles, 3D puzzles, and wooden puzzles. I also enjoy crocheting, playing the piano, calligraphy, baking, and reading in my free time. Chess is of course at the top of the list.
What should we know about Zoey? Chess has been a big part of my life, but it is only one part of who I am. This year is especially meaningful to me because I received the 2026 U.S. Chess Young Player of the Year Award, and at the same time, I am beginning a new chapter at Stanford. I am excited to explore new interests in college while continuing to stay connected to chess. I am very grateful for all the coaches, friends, tournament organizers, volunteers, and people in the chess community who have supported me over the years.
Larry Ball (Coach Larry) teaches students of all ages at the Steinitz Chess Academy in Beaverton. Questions? Email larryball48@yahoo.com.
