NM Shearwood "Woody" McClelland

Woody graduated from Harvard in 2000 and is now going to Columbia med school. He was the youngest NJ State Champion ever in 1998 and defended his title by becoming 2 time NJ State Champion in 1999. Woody has a great measured confidence which is probably his greatest asset. Unlike most lower rated players, Woody would not consider accepting a quick draw against a higher rated opponent. He always plays for the win and understands that if he plays his best he will achieve that result. He likes to play the Closed Sicilian for white and the French and Kings Indian defense for black. Woody’s form is not as high as it once was due to his focus on getting his new title (M.D.), but his confidence and will to win always make him a tough opponent.