The 2025 Youth Charity Chess Tournament, co-hosted by Melbourne Great Ocean Lions Club and Bingo Education, has successfully concluded at The Herzl Club, Caulfield North. This annual event once again brought together young chess players from across Victoria, uniting them not only in competition but also in compassion.
Supporting a Meaningful Cause
As in previous years, the tournament was held to support the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF). Every move made on the chessboard represented a step towards helping children and families affected by cancer. Participants and families showed great enthusiasm in contributing to this meaningful cause while enjoying a day filled with strategy, learning, and friendship.
Celebrating Our Champions
After seven rounds of intense competition under the ACF-rated rapid format (13+2), this year’s tournament crowned two overall champions:
🏆 Champion: Jesse Zafirakos
🥈 Runner-up: Leo Kalina
In addition to the overall winners, medals and certificates were presented to players across multiple age categories, recognising not only skill but also dedication, sportsmanship, and perseverance.
Jesse (left) is competing with Leo (right)
A Day of Passion and Community
The tournament hall was filled with concentration, excitement, and camaraderie as players of all ages tested their skills across the boards. Parents and coaches watched proudly as young competitors displayed their growing understanding of strategy and creativity.
Bingo Education would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who made this event possible. Special thanks go to the Melbourne Great Ocean Lions Club for their partnership and to Medibank for their generous sponsorship throughout the event.
James Hartley (left) is competing with Ayrton Simpson (right)
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Youth Charity Chess Tournament reminded us that chess is more than a game—it’s a bridge connecting minds, communities, and causes. Bingo Education looks forward to continuing this tradition next year, bringing together more young players to make a difference through chess.
Thank you to everyone who joined us this year. See you again in 2026!
Great event! Love how chess is used for a good cause.