Thug Life Army

The Hip Hop Chess Federation (HHCF) has launched of its Life Strategies pilot program at John O''Connell High School. The HHCF is the first non-profit organization to fuse music, chess and martial arts, to promote unity, strategy and non-violence to American youth. The HHCF pilot program will give boys and girls basic lessons in chess, philosophy and Hip Hop history. Students involved with the Life Strategies pilot program will also get free copies of The Art of Learning, by best selling author and chess icon Josh Waitzkin. Additionally, students will receive their own copy of Ubisoft's Chessmaster 11 video game to enhance their practical chess skill. The class will also have celebrity drop ins where the youth can meet and speak with rappers, MMA stars, chess masters.

In the past, The Hip Hop Chess Federation has hosted celebrity chess events for underserved youth to learn about the benefits of incorporating chess tactics into their life strategies. Past participants in HHCF events include RZA, GZA and Monk from Wu-Tang Clan, DJ QBERT, Immortal Technique, Rakaa from Dilated Peoples, Paris, T-KASH, Opio and Casual from Hieroglyphics, Balance, San Quinn, Jay The Butcher, Sunspot Jonz, Okwerdz, JT The Bigga Figga and MMA star Ralek Gracie among others.

"We are honored for John O''Connell's staff and faculty allowing us to launch the Life Strategies pilot program here" said Hip Hop Chess Federation founder and CEO, Adisa Banjoko. "There are countless studies from countries around the world that illustrate how chess improves math and reading skills. Chess, like music and martial arts is a universal language. We believe the HHCF's blend of art, physical health and critical thinking is the perfect booster shot for the American education system. "

For more information on the Hip Hop Chess Federatino visit: www.hiphopchessfederation.org