Students from PS 291 in University Heights came in first in two national chess competitions. The students were entered in the National Elementary School Chess Championships and they came home with two first place trophies. Team members say they jumped up and down and hugged each other when they learned of the wins. To prepare for the competition, the children learn the game in school and compete locally. The students say the game is fun but that?s not the only reason they play chess. They say it helps them do well in other classes. Their teacher agrees. He says a worldwide study shows students who play chess do better in reading and math.