Murfreesboro, TN - Two young chess champions from Rutherford County brought honor to Tennessee at the 2025 United States Chess Association Invitationals in Middleton, Wisconsin. Sabrina Hoja of Central Magnet and Saeed Hoja of McFadden School of Excellence showcased their strategic brilliance on the national stage, earning high praise from the Tennessee Chess Association. This event took place a few weeks ago, July 28-Aug. 3, 2025.

Sabrina, the current Tennessee Girls Chess Champion, competed in the Harring Tournament against 47 other state champions. Despite facing players with higher ratings, she placed 14th overall—an impressive feat that highlights her skill and determination.

Her younger brother Saeed, Tennessee’s 4th/5th Grade State Champion, tied for 22nd out of 51 in the Rockefeller Tournament for fifth-grade champions. He also placed 3rd in his class in the Blitz tournament, a fast-paced format that rewards quick thinking and sharp instincts. Together, the siblings helped Tennessee tie for 8th place in the State Champions team competition.

Chris Prosser, Secretary and US Chess Delegate for the Tennessee Chess Association, called their performance “phenomenal,” noting how proud the organization is to have them represent the state.

Rob Mitchell, Rutherford County Property Assessor, has been the driving force behind these local tournaments. He organized the first event in 2024 and is leading the charge for the upcoming championship. Mitchell’s passion for chess extends beyond competition—he’s a vocal advocate for chess education in schools, promoting it as a tool for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

With rising stars like Sabrina and Saeed and a growing local chess community, Rutherford County is quickly becoming a hub for strategic talent and scholastic achievement.