The Ladue Horton Watkins High School chess team has officially concluded its 2025-26 season on the national stage, proving once again that it is among the elite programs in the country. Last month, the Rams traveled to Chicago to compete in the U.S. Chess Federation (USCF) National High School Championship.

Facing off against nearly 50 of the most formidable high school teams in the U.S., the Rams secured an impressive 7th-place finish. The team, which represented Missouri as the state's only team, included Sean Gao (10), Ayden Huang (10), Mohit Maringanti (12), Luke Ye (12), Alex Zhang (10), and Rex Zhu (12). Their performance in Chicago served as a fitting finale to a year defined by strategic brilliance across the Ladue School District.

The road to Chicago was paved with historic success closer to home. Earlier this spring, LHWHS captured the state title for the sixth consecutive year at the 2026 Missouri State Scholastic Chess Championship, finishing with a perfect 16-0 record and winning every single match and individual board. Eight Ladue students placed first in their respective divisions: Andrew Thomadsen (12), Luke Ye (12), Mohit Maringanti (12), Angella Zhang (11), Alex Zhang (10), Sean Gao (10), Forrest Yang (9), and Alvin He (9).

The high school’s success reflects a thriving chess culture across all Ladue Schools. At the state level, the depth of our program was evident as multiple buildings took home top honors:

• Conway Elementary: Captured 1st Place in the 3rd Grade and Under division.
• Fifth Grade Center: Earned a 2nd Place team finish.
• Ladue Middle School: Earned a 2nd Place team finish.

Whether they were competing for a state trophy or battling through the grueling national rounds in Chicago, we are incredibly proud of our chess scholars for another unforgettable season!