Hudson Park Primary is celebrating a proud moment after two of its young chess players delivered exceptional performances at the recent SA Open Chess Championship in Bellville.
The prestigious tournament, one of the country’s leading national chess events which attracts top-tier players, brought together the best from across SA to compete for national honours, and the Hudson Park pair rose to the occasion.
Grade 1 pupil Nadeema Naidoo emerged as the U7 girls champion after a flawless performance, winning all seven of her matches to secure first place in her category.
Her mother, Aisha Paulse, described the achievement as deeply emotional for their family.
“We were overwhelmed with pride and gratitude,” said Paulse.
“Watching Nadeema win all seven of her games was an emotional moment because we know the dedication, discipline and hard work that she puts into her chess.
“To finish the tournament with a perfect score and be crowned the South African U7 champion exceeded our expectations. It is a moment our family will cherish forever.”
At just six years old, Nadeema has already begun building an impressive chess resume.
Earlier this year, she represented SA at the African Youth Chess Championships in Uganda.
“Representing the country in Uganda was an incredible honour and a dream come true for our family.
“Competing against some of Africa’s best young players taught Nadeema confidence, resilience and sportsmanship,” Paulsse said.
She said Nadeema’s strong performance on the continent highlighted the potential of young SA players, while also pointing to the need for greater support in the sport.
“South African players have the talent to compete internationally, but they need greater financial support, especially access to international coaching, school scholarships and development opportunities,” she said.
Despite her young age, Nadeema is already showing remarkable maturity and determination.
“She was very happy and excited. She understood that she had achieved something special,” Paulse said.
“She celebrated with a big smile and was proud to receive her trophy and gold medal. Even after winning, she was already talking about improving and working even harder for her next tournament.”
Family support, she emphasised, has played a crucial role in Nadeema’s success.
“Behind every tournament is a family that sacrifices time, finances and energy to ensure she has every opportunity to grow.
“Chess is an individual sport, but no young champion succeeds alone,” she said, expressing gratitude to coach Zaid Paulse, supporters and teammates.
Joining Nadeema in making the school proud was grade 8 pupil Chezhaan Adams, who claimed third place in the U15 Boys section.
He finished the tournament with 5.5 points out of seven games, losing just one match and drawing his final game.
Having taken up chess just over a year ago, Chezhaan’s rapid progress has seen him emerge as one of the province’s leading junior players, regularly competing at a high level and earning recognition for his strategic thinking and calm approach under pressure.
He also represented SA at this year’s African Youth Chess Championships in Uganda, gaining valuable international experience.
His podium finish at the SA Open Chess Championship now adds to a growing list of achievements, firmly establishing him as a player to watch in the years ahead.
Hudson Park High headmaster Dennis Vorster praised both pupils for their achievements.
“To compete against the best young chess players in the country and return with these results is an exceptional achievement,” said Vorster.
“Nadeema and Chezhaan have shown that success comes through discipline, resilience and a love for learning.”
