Champions Social Club welcomed internationally recognized chess streamer and Woman Grandmaster Nemo Zhou to North Texas Oct. 14-16 for a three-day activation that brought together chess enthusiasts, poker players, content creators, athletes and philanthropists for a series of interactive events centered around competition, camaraderie and giving back to the community
The activation kicked off with Queen of the Hill, a special chess meetup that gave players the opportunity to challenge Nemo in a fast-paced showdown. Competing under a unique set of rules that reduced her clock after every victory, Nemo successfully defended her throne against 20 local challengers throughout the evening. Along the way, Nemo turned friendly banter into strategy, chatting with opponents as she continued her undefeated run. Local chess instructor, and Champions livestream commentator, and chess International Master Emil Stefanov ultimately became the only player to defeat Nemo, closing out a memorable night of competition.
The buzz continued the following evening with an invite-only charity poker tournament that featured a lineup of “Champions” to compete on behalf of nonprofit organizations across North Texas. Participants helped raise awareness and support for their respective causes, making a meaningful impact throughout the region. Representatives from several of the charities attended the event, allowing guests to engage with the organizations firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of their impact.
L to R: Salty Phish, Nemo Zhou & Telli Swift, Johnnie Harris
Among the competitors was Burak Ozgur, a renowned neurosurgeon and accomplished Catan champion, playing on behalf of Frisco Family Services. Telli Smith, a philanthropist and avid poker player known for her support of women, children and families, represented Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County. YouTuber Salty Phish played for Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County, while former NFL player Johnnie Harris represented the Michael Finley Foundation, which supports youth and educational initiatives. Michael Gonzalez, a police officer and advocate for first responders, competed on behalf of Assist the Officer Foundation Dallas, and David Ovard represented the Frisco Police Officers Association, which provides charitable and educational support to local law enforcement.
Poker personality and WSOP champ Slick Ric played for The Samaritan Inn, a McKinney-based nonprofit that helps individuals and families experiencing homelessness regain stability. Decorated Deaflympic swimmer and Big Brother star Matt Klotz competed on behalf of USA Deaf Swimming, which supports deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes through training and competition opportunities. To round out the field was Nemo, representing Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, an organization dedicated to helping women and children escape domestic violence through free emergency shelter, counseling and advocacy.
The tournament concluded with the following winnerschampions: Slick Ric captured first place and secured a $3,000 donation for The Samaritan Inn; Burak Ozgur earned second place and secured a $1,500 donation for Frisco Family Services; and Johnnie Harris finished third, securing a $500 donation for the Michael Finley Foundation.
Big Brother Contestant Matt Klotz and Nemo Zhou play poker for local causes
The three-day activation wrapped up Friday night as Champions President Isaac Trumbo joined Nemo and several prominent poker players for a livestreamed finale. After the stream, participating VIPs made their way to the main tables for a Community Meet Up Game to play against other members.
Together, the events showcased Champions’ mission to create meaningful connections through gameplay while reinforcing its position as North Texas’ premier destination for poker, entertainment and community engagement.
All three nights were livestreamed and are available to watch on the Champions YouTube channel, Champions Club Live.