Aria Hoesley

Aria Hoesley, born and raised in Chicago is currently a sophomore at Northwestern University, studying Biology and Data Science. Her dad taught her how to play chess when she was 5, and she began competing in tournaments in second grade. While competing mostly with her team in grade school, she qualified for the US World Youth Team in 7th and 8th grade. Her experiences playing international competitors in Uruguay and Greece furthered her passion for chess and inspired her to become more competitive. In high school, she led her team to winning a state championship and won the All Girls Nationals in 2019. 

While still competing in tournaments, Aria now focuses on encouraging and creating opportunities for young girls to play chess. She believes that every girl deserves to play chess in a positive, supportive, and inspiring environment. As a chess coach she hopes her students will further their love for chess by building new skills, forming friendships, and exploring new strategies.