Forget Fortnite — Nease Student Becomes First in St. Johns to Earn Elite Chess Ranking

Nease sophomore Advait Nair achieved National Master status with the US Chess Federation.

Nease High School sophomore Advait Nair has made history by becoming the first student in St. Johns County to earn the title of National Master from the US Chess Federation.

Advait, who is part of Nease’s International Baccalaureate program, reached an impressive 2200 rating, a milestone that less than 1% of chess players achieve, according to school officials.

“With a rating of 2200, Advait is the first student in the SJCSD to reach this incredible milestone,” the district said in a statement.

Over the summer, Advait also won the National Junior Chess Congress in Orlando, becoming the National Champion in the 16-and-under category.