NAMPA -- Bobby Powers is going to nationals.

The Nampa Christian High School student was named the 2004 Idaho State Scholastic Chess Champion two weeks ago.

Now he's thinking about Florida. Powers will represent Idaho at the Denker Tournament of High School Champions in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., this August.

"I'm hoping to be in the top half," Powers said. "Top 10 would be amazing."

But first things first.

Powers said he can't spend much time on chess right now because of baseball season, and he's thinking about running for class office.

"Some kids at school know me as the chess kid," Powers said. "It's not the only thing I do. People don't realize I also won the golden glove award on my J.V. baseball team."

And Powers said he'd like to run for student body treasurer because it seems a good fit with his interest in math.

Then he'll have time to focus on the tournament.

He said the biggest part of getting ready will involve raising money so he can go.

Each state winner receives a $100 stipend to help cover costs, but Powers estimated the eight-day trip could cost more than $1,000.

"I'm hoping to pursue private and team coaching," Powers said. "We're hoping for sponsors too."

And Powers' mom, Bonnie Powers, said the trip will be well worth it.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," she said. Bonnie pointed out that there aren't lots of kids who play chess competitively in Idaho, so many of the state's younger players know her son.

He's been a guest speaker at several local elementary schools and has coached as well.

"It gives him a chance to be a positive role model," Bonnie said. "There are a lot of little kids who look up to him."

Bobby explained why he values chess.

"A lot of kids have the stereotype that chess is the geek sport," Powers said. "But it's kind of like the golf of board games. It's one of the few chances you have to test your wits."

Find more at the
Idaho Press-Tribune.