Clarke Central High School freshman Dionne McCalla contemplates his next chess move at the Athens-Clarke County Library on Jan. 14. Having played chess since he was six, McCalla’s Monday afternoons consist of spending time –and learning patience– with the chess community. “You’d be surprised how violent people get in competitions, like, I’ve had a guy throw a piece at me before,” McCalla said. “Like, I’m not gonna rub it in your face if I beat you, which I am — gonna beat you. I’m gonna beat you because I’m amazing.” Photo taken by Audrey Kennedy.
The ODYSSEY Media Group will provide viewers with stylized profiles that center on people in the Athens community telling their own stories.
Clarke Central High School freshman Dionne McCalla found a passion for chess at a young age, as he’s grown it has taught him valuable lessons.
Every Monday, ever since he was 6 years old, Clarke Central High School freshman Dionne McCalla can reliably be found playing chess at the Athens Clarke County Library.
Having the disposition of a sociable, easy-going person, Dionne is often pictured joking around with friends. Though, in brief moments, he can be caught posed with his back straight, his finger at his forehead, with a strict, contemplative look on his face.
This is the Dionne that comes out when he readies his mind for a game of chess.
It’s a fleeting moment, right when he’s about to make his move. His body tenses and his eyes lower, he taps his fingernails, and — unusually for him — he doesn’t speak. However, immediately after he finishes his move, he returns to his relaxed and humorous disposition.
In the quiet heat of the match, Dionne finds conversation. He jokes around with his competitors and he takes it upon himself to maintain a friendly rivalry. Even when the competition gets heated, Dionne finds it in himself to keep the peace.
More than just a hobby for Dionne, chess has helped him grow emotionally. While it has opened up many social opportunities for him, Dionne relishes chess for teaching him patience and compassion.
“I try to be open to all types of people and all types of experiences,” McCalla said. “You can be living in the poorest neighborhoods to Hollywood Hills, I really don’t care. I just like everybody.”
It doesn’t matter who he’s playing against or where they came from. Eyes tilted towards the black and white chess board, McCalla feels most confident in himself. He picks up his knight and hovers it above a square, contemplating.
Upon placing it down, the moment of silence passes. McCalla’s social self returns, joking and laughing with those around him.
