Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions - New to Tournament Chess:

Q: What do I need to do to participate in your tournaments?
A: There are a few steps to follow.

Step 1: If you are not a member of the United States Chess Federation yet, you would need to join the USCF. USCF members who's membership expired should renew, before entering the tournament. (All our tournaments are rated through the USCF. Establishing and maintaining an official over-the board rating is a great way to track your progress. An established rating also helps the tournament director (TD) to pair your with the most appropriate opponents.)

To join the USCF, visit their website, click on the JOIN button, scroll down and find the membership type that is right for you. After that enter the required information and pay for your membership. With that you are issued a member ID number. Have this ID number handy. The TD needs this bit of information.

Step 2: Contact the TD using the Contact US tab to let him know that you want to join. This is preferred over just showing up, since it will assure that you have a pairing and it reduces the stress everyone experiences that evening. 

Step 3: Paying the entry fee for the tournament. There is a tournament entry fee of $10 for guests/non-member and $5 for club members. A 12-month club membership is $20. Fees and memberships can be paid cash at the club or under the Register tab.

Step 4: Arrive at the club by 6:15. That give you 10 minutes to find you opponent and set-up the pieces before the official start of the games at 6:25.

Q: What do I have to bring to the meetings?
A: You don't have to bring anything, but most players bring their own set and clock. Also, the chess club has a limited number of chess sets and clocks that can be used for tournament play.

Chess board and pieces should be official tournament size (2.25" square size, 3.75" king height) and the clock should be digital with delay function.  The USCF store offers a Design Your Own Player's Combo, that contains everything you need for about $50 to $75, depending on your selection.