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4th Annual Schein – Friedman Awards: The winners are…

December 30, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

Congratulations Awonder Liang, Ruifeng Li and Sarah Chiang!

The U.S. Chess Trust is a proud supporter of the Schein-Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project Our scholarships and programs are supported by charitable donations and the Trust does not receive any grants nor government funding.  Our donors help us support this and many other programs.

PRESS RELEASE

4th Annual Schein – Friedman Awards Announced

By Mark Schein and Aviv Friedman

December 30, 2011

The Schein – Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project is glad to announce its fourth year scholarship recipients! Like last year, we have decided to forego the ranking process, and equally divide the awards among the recipients. Each winner will receive a $3000 scholarship. This year’s winners are Awonder Liang, Ruifeng Li, and Sarah Chiang.

Awonder Liang, Photo Andrea Rosen

Awonder is an 8-year-old from Wisconsin, is the newest and youngest American world champion, having recently won the gold medal at the World Youth Championships in Brazil. The USCF’s top ranked player for his age group, Awonder is a two-time national scholastics champion. He is fast closing on his immediate goal of making master.

Ruifeng Li, Photo Andrea Rosen

10-year-old Ruifeng (left) who hails from Texas, is a multiple times national scholastics champion. Mostly self-taught Ruifeng is a USCF expert, and ranked second on his age group list. He is the world’s vice champion in the under 10 category, recently winning a silver medal at the World Youth championships.

Sarah Chiang, Photo Chess Base

Sarah Chiang Texan Sarah Chiang is 14 years old, and is the country’s top girl under 16 years of age. She recently reached a rating of 2200 and was awarded the master title. She is a 2007 vice world champion in the girls under 10 category (winning the silver medal), and tied for third (fourth on tie breaks) in this year’s girls under 14 championship.

Congratulations to all the recipients! And a special thank you to all who applied.

The Schein – Friedman project is designed to help some of our younger champions improve and dedicate themselves more to chess, while offsetting the financial expenses that usually come with those. Hopefully the project will reward excelling youngsters, and help them become tomorrow’s best players and Grandmasters. At the same time they would be serving as role models and inspiration to the entire scholastic community.

Our program is generally geared towards youngsters age 7-17. Occasionally, in cases of unusual excellence (considerably exceeding the program’s criterions), applications by players up to age 20 would be considered.

 

Filed Under: News, Scholastic Chess

The Schein – Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project

December 13, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

The U.S. Chess Trust is a proud supporter of the Schein-Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project

Our scholarships and programs are supported by charitable donations and the Trust does not receive any grants nor government funding.  Our donors help us support this and many other programs.

“The Schein-Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project is designed to reward some top-rated youngsters, and help them become tomorrow’s best players and eventual Grandmasters. These youngsters will be serving as role models and inspiration to the entire scholastic community.”

The Schein-Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project is currently accepting submissions.

Last year, the winners were:   Samuel Sevian from California, Alena Kats from New York, and Kayden Troff from Utah.

  • 9-year-old Samuel is the youngest player ever to break the rating of 2000 (at age 8).  He is a multi-time member of the All American team, and was an official representative in the World Youth in Greece. Find out more about Samuel  >>
  • Alena is a 15-year-old, who is the highest ranked girl for her age group. She has already crossed the milestone of 2200, becoming a USCF master, and drawing her first GM. She has represented the US several times in world events, earning a bronze medal at the Pan American games in 2008, and a high 7th place at the World Youth the same year. Find out more about Alena >>
  • At 12, Kayden tops the rating list in his group. In 2009, he took first place and the gold at the North American Youth (under 12 open), in Mexico. Kayden represented the US at the World Youth in Greece (2010), and was an official player in the under 12 section.  Find out more about Kayden  >>

Read the latest Press Release for more information.  Good luck to all of the applicants! 

Press Release

Schein – Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project

Mark Schein and Aviv Friedman, with the help of the US Chess Trust, are happy to announce their fourth annual scholastic recognition project.

The project is designed to help some of our younger champions continue to improve and dedicate themselves to chess while offsetting some of the financial expense. The project is designed to reward some top-rated youngsters, and help them become tomorrow’s best players and eventual Grandmasters. These youngsters will be serving as role models and inspiration to the entire scholastic community.

The program is generally designed for youngsters age 7-17. Occasionally, in cases of unusual excellence (considerably exceeding the program’s criterions), applications by players up to age 20 would be considered, but in a lower priority to applicants under age 17.

The scholarships offered for 2011 are:

  • The top recipient will get $4000;
  • the second recipient will get $3000;
  • and the third $2000.

Applicants must have been US citizens or permanent legal residents for a minimum of 18 months prior to the deadline date (December 20th for 2011). They must show dedication to chess, talent and accomplishment. They also must exhibit a will to work hard and improve, as well as good sportsmanship and a positive attitude. Applicants must be active tournament players.

The minimum ratings qualification formula is as follows:

  • Ages 7-14: age * 100 + 1000 for boys, and age * 100 + 800 for girls.
  • Ages 15-16: age * 100 + 900 for boys, and age * 100 + 700 for girls.
  • Age 17: 2500 for boys, 2300 for girls.

All applications should be in the form of an essay, describing the applicant’s chess accomplishments, and why he or she should receive a scholarship.

They should be sent via e-mail to Aviv Friedman at avivster@hotmail.com .

As in previous years, the program intends to help co-sponsor a weeklong chess camp for 8-12 top juniors.

Filed Under: Scholastic Chess

Denker Tournament of High School Champions (Aug. 4 -7, 2012)

October 5, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

“The Denker Tournament of High School Champions is proud to announce that the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) has once again given a scholarship to be awarded to the winner of the 2012 Denker tournament. Check out the video (above) of the UTD Chess Team. This will give you a look into what UTD is all about and what players can expect when they attend UTD.”

The U.S. Chess Trust is a Proud Sponsor of this tournament!! 

We look forward to this coming event!

Below are the complete details for the 2012 Denker Tournament.

DENKER RULES

(Revised October 2, 2011)

General Information

This invitational tournament will be played during the 2012 U.S. Open in Vancouver, WA from August 4, 2012 to August 7, 2012. The Denker Tournament of High School Champions fields High School State Champions from across the United States. The winner of the tournament shall receive the title of Denker High School Champion of Champions. In case of ties, co-champions shall be recognized.

The “Denker” is considered a prestigious event held in memory of Grandmaster Arnold Denker who helped found it and who helped support it financially for over 20 years. Scholarships totaling $2,200 are now awarded to the top five finishers, through the generosity of GM Denker’s son, Mitchell, the U.S. Chess Trust and the National Scholastic Chess Foundation.

Eligibility

Each state shall be allowed one Representative as determined by the USCF State Affiliate (Denker Nomination Form). Alternates may be substituted as the official Representative. If there are an uneven number of entrants in the tournament, the Chairman of the Denker Committee will allow the host state to enter an additional qualified player. The additional player is eligible for prize monies, and the UTD Scholarship. Should the USCF state affiliate fail to respond to the notice for this tournament by June 15, the Denker Chairman may determine the candidate from that state. Representatives must be residents of the state they are representing.

All players including home schooled students must be under the age of 20 on September 1 of the year in which the tournament is held. They must have been enrolled in at least [3] high school courses, during the previous spring using the 9th through 12th grade curriculum. The Representative may not be listed as a full-time student at any college. Proof of eligibility shall be the responsibility of the players and the USCF state official certifying the Representative or Alternate.

It is the goal of the Denker Committee to have all fifty states and the District of Columbia represented. Consequently, we strongly encourage each USCF state affiliate and the District of Columbia to hold a High School Championship tournament to determine its champion. Failing this, rating or some other criteria may be acceptable.

Playing Schedule

The Opening Ceremony and 6-round Swiss will consist of the following dates and times:

  • Opening Ceremony-3 PM Saturday, August 4, 2012 (REQUIRED ATTENDANCE AND CHECK-IN). All participants are required to attend for awarding of Medallions, introduction of dignitaries and photo session.
  • Round 1-Saturday, August 4, 2012. Same time as evening round of the US Open-7 PM.
  • Round 2-Sunday, August 5, 2012 12:00 Noon. Round 3-Same starting time as evening round of the US Open-7 PM.
  • Round 4-Monday, August 6, 2012- 12:00 Noon. Round 5-Same starting time as evening round of the US Open-7 PM.
  • Round 6-Tuesday, August 7, 2012- 11 AM. Denker Awards Ceremony-4 PM.

This playing schedule is especially convenient, because it allows players an opportunity to participate in the US Open. This is possible because you can now enter the US Open upon completion of the Denker. Please note that the USCF Delegates voted to provide a 50% entry fee (based on the lowest entry fee) for all Denker participants who choose to enter the US Open after the Denker is concluded.

Rules

  1. Players shall be required to play all six rounds of the tournament. A proportion of a player’s expense money will be withheld for each forfeited game.
  2. Players need to notify the TD staff if they become ill during the tournament, so that the host state alternate can be substituted. Players expelled from the tournament, or who withdraw without contacting the Tournament Director forfeit all expense money. Player shall be required to furnish the TD with a legible and complete score sheet at the conclusion of each round.
  3. The time control will be 90 minutes per player with 30 second increment added per move. This is the approved FIDE time control and this event will be rated by FIDE.

Scholarship Details

The Denker Tournament of High School Champions is proud to announce that the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) has once again given a scholarship to be awarded to the winner of the 2012 Denker tournament. This scholarship covers complete cost of tuition and mandatory fees through eight semesters (four years) of enrollment. In addition, the Chess II Scholarship provides a $1500 per semester contribution toward rental expenses incurred at university on-campus housing. The Chess Program Scholarship guidelines apply with regard to GPA requirements and probation. The scholarship is valued at $68,000 for an out-of-state student. UTD has been a leader in the promotion of Scholastic Chess for many years. You can see their campus and chess program at the following locations: www.utdallas.edu and www.chess.utdallas.edu/.

Also check out the video (above) of the UTD Chess Team. This will give you a look into what UTD is all about and what players can expect when they attend UTD. The eligible winner, decided by tie-breaks, must meet UTD entry requirements and have been in grades 9-11 during the previous spring.

Sponsors

Mitchell Denker, The U.S. Chess Trust and the National Scholastic Chess Foundation will award a total of $2200 in Scholarships (1st place: $800, 2nd place $500, 3rd place $300, 4th place $300 and 5th place $300). Scholarships are designated for college expenses and will be sent to winners only upon proof of college enrollment (copies of paid bills, or official letters, etc.) by the Chess Trust. In some cases, prizes will be held in escrow pending receipt of paper documentation. Each participant will receive a Gold Medallion provided by American Chess Equipment, Inc.

There will also be a $500 Ursula Foster scholarship awarded by the Chess Trust to the highest finisher who is under the age of 16 on the first day of the tournament. If less than two participants are under 16, then the scholarship will go to the top participant under 17. Two or more players must be in the lowest age qualified group.

Expense money: Through the generosity of Mitchell Denker, each participant including the alternate will receive a minimum of $100 to help defray travel expenses, plus a share of the remaining funds after tournament expenses. Expense money will be paid in check or cash at the conclusion of the event. A proportion of a player’s expense money will be withheld for each forfeited game. Players expelled from the tournament, or who withdraw without contacting the Tournament Director forfeit all expense money.

Travel & Accommodations: Players are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. Players sharing rooms should make their arrangements carefully, as neither the USCF nor the tournament is responsible for any consequences arising from such arrangements. Please note that registration in a hotel room will require a person 18 years of age or older to be present.

Contact Information: Each player must provide the Denker Co-Chair with a phone number of a parent or other responsible adult in case of an emergency.

Denker Co-Chair:
Dewain Barber
524 S. Avenida Faro
Anaheim, CA 92807
(714) 998-5508
FAX (714) 998-1160
E-Mail: AmChessEq@aol.com

www.denkerchess.com

Filed Under: Scholastic Chess, Tournaments/Events

Dewain Barber Tournament of K-8 Champions

May 16, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

(Revision March 22, 2011)
Rules and Regulations

Coming Up!  July 30, 2011 to August 2, 2011

General Information

This invitational tournament will be played during the 2011 U.S. Open in Orlando, Florida from July 30, 2011 to August 2, 2011. The Barber Tournament of K-8 Champions attracts State Champions from across the United States and the District of Columbia. The winner of the tournament shall receive the title of Barber K-8 Champion of Champions. In case of ties, co-champions shall be recognized.

Eligibility

Each state shall be allowed one Representative as determined by the USCF State Affiliate. Alternates may be substituted as the official Representative. If there are an uneven number of entrants in the tournament, the host state is allowed to enter an additional qualified player. The additional player is eligible for prize monies. Should any of the USCF state affiliates fail to respond to the notice for this tournament by June 15, the K-8 Invitational Chairman may determine the candidate from that state. Representatives must be residents of the state they are representing.

All players including home schooled students must be under the age of 16 as of the first day of the tournament. They must have been enrolled in at least three [3] Grade 8 or below courses, during the previous spring using the grade appropriate curriculum. The Representative may not have been a full-time student in grade 9 or above during the previous school year. Proof of eligibility shall be the responsibility of the players and the USCF state official certifying the Representative or Alternate.

It is the goal of the K-8 Invitational Committee to have all fifty states and the District of Columbia represented. Consequently, we strongly encourage each USCF state affiliate and the District of Columbia to identify or hold an appropriate Championship tournament to determine its qualifier. Failing this, rating or some other criteria will be acceptable.

Playing Schedule

The Opening Ceremony, 6-round Swiss and Awards Ceremony will consist of the following dates and times:

Opening Ceremony – 4 PM Saturday, July 30, 2011 (REQUIRED ATTENDANCE AND CHECK-IN). All participants are required to attend for player introductions, awarding of Medallions, introduction of dignitaries and photo session.

  • Saturday, July 30, 2011 Round 1. Same time as evening round of the US Open.
  • Sunday, July 31, 2011 Round 2 – 12:30 PM. Round 3 – Same time as evening round of the US Open.
  • Monday, August 1, 2011 Round 4 – 12:30 PM. Round 5 – Same time as evening round of the US Open.
  • Tuesday, August 2, 2011 Round 6 – 11 AM and Awards Ceremony – 4 PM.

This playing schedule is especially convenient, because it allows players an opportunity to participate in the US Open. This is possible because you can now enter the US Open’s four or six day schedule upon completion of the event. Please note that the USCF Executive Board voted to provide a 50% entry fee for all Barber participants who choose to enter the US Open after the Barber is concluded.

Rules

  1. Players are required to play all six rounds of the tournament. A proportion of a player’s expense money will be withheld for each forfeited game. Players expelled from the tournament, or who withdraw without contacting the Tournament Director forfeit all expense money.
  2. Player shall be required to furnish the TD with a legible and complete score sheet at the conclusion of each round.
  3. The time control will be determined by the Chief Tournament Director of the US Open.

Prize Fund:

Dewain Barber, American Chess Equipment, The United States Chess Federation, The U.S. Chess Trust and Dwight Barber will award a total of $2200 in Scholarships (1st place: $800, 2nd place $500, 3rd place $300, 4th place $300 and 5th place $300).  Scholarships are designated for college expenses and will be sent to winners only upon proof of college enrollment (copies of paid bills, or official letters, etc.) by the Chess Trust. In some cases, prizes will be held in escrow pending receipt of paper documentation.

Expense money:   Through the generosity of Dewain Barber, American Chess Equipment, each participant and the alternate will receive a minimum of $100 to help defray travel expenses, plus a share of the remaining funds after tournament expenses. Expense money will be paid in check or cash at the conclusion of the event. A proportion of a player’s expense money will be withheld for each forfeited game. Players expelled from the tournament, or who withdraw without contacting the Tournament Director forfeit all expense money.

Travel & Accommodations: Players are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. Please note that registration in a hotel room will require a person 18 years of age or older to be present.

Contact Information: Each player must provide the K-8 Invitational Chairman with a phone number of a parent or other responsible adult who will be onsite throughout the event.

K-8 ORGANIZER:

Dewain Barber
American Chess Equipment
524 S. Avenida Faro
Anaheim, CA 92807
Ph: (714) 998-5508
Fax: (74) 998-1160
E-mail: amchesseq@aol.com

Filed Under: Scholastic Chess

2011 National Elementary (K-6) Championship

May 6, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

Click Here to See the Final Results!

2011 Elementary Nationals: A K-1 Preview

By Kele Perkins
May 6, 2011

The main event of the 2011 Elementary National Championships begins today and was preceded by a simul by GM Maurice Ashley, which began at 10 AM EST. The following preview focuses on a section that is often overlooked in favor of the tournaments with older players. Look for an update tomorrow by Shaun and Matan.

In 2010, the K-1 Championship section at the Elementary National Championships section had 14 players with supplement ratings of at least 1000. In this weekend’s 2011 edition, the section boasts at least 26 such entrants. If there were a Most Improved Section trophy, this section could well be expected to win it. In part because its young players are improving at such a rapid pace, the K-1 section is surely one of the more exciting aspects of these national championships.

On paper, the ratings favorite is Ben Rood of California. A student at the Chris Torres Chess and Music Academy, Rood has shown tremendous improvement in the last several weeks. His recent victories over 2nd grade national co-champion Josiah Paul Stearman and a win against an ‘A’ player show that Rood is in great form. Torres believes young Ben is “destined to become a national champion,” and his play at the Northern California state championships gives some credence to his teacher’s prediction. Another Torres student, Chenyi Zhao, had a recent ratings slip, but is still a force to be reckoned with. A third, Milind Maiti, is among the country’s top kindergarteners.   READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE ON THE USCF WEBSITE >>>

About the 2011 National Elementary (K-6) Championship

May 6-8, 2011 (May 5- Bughouse & Blitz)

Location:
Hilton Anatole
2201 Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX 75207

CHECK TOURNAMENT STANDINGS >>>

9 Sections

  • K-6 Championship
  • K-6 Under 1000
  • K-6 Unrated
  • K-5 Championship
  • K-5 Under 900
  • K-3 Championship
  • K-3 Under 800
  • K-3 Unrated
  • K-1 Championship

The USCF reserves the right to move a player to a higher section by rating if there is published credible evidence that suggests that their playing strength is inappropriate for the section entered.

EF: $$50 if p/m by 3 April, $70 if by 17 April, $85 after 17 April or $90 at site.

Players registering late (after 10 AM Friday) will not be paired for round 1, will receive a 1/2 bye, and will begin play with round 2. $5.00 extra for all phone registrations. $20 change fee for roster or section changes after 17 April or on site.

Teams

A team must have at least two players, although no maximum number of players. The top four scores in any section will count for the team score. All players on a team must come from the same school.

Main Event rounds:

  • Friday 1 pm, 7pm;
  • Saturday 9 am, 2 pm, 7 pm;
  • Sunday 9 am, 2 pm.

Schedule for K-1 section:

  • Friday 1:30 pm, 6:30 pm;
  • Saturday 9:30 am, 1:30 pm (not 2 pm), 6:30 pm;
  • Sunday 9:30 am, 1:30 pm (not 2 pm).

Opening Ceremony:

  • 12:30 pm Friday.

Awards:

  • 7 pm (approximate) Sunday.

K1 Section:

  • 5:30 PM [approximately]

Prizes

  • K-6 Championship
  • K-6 Under 1000
  • K-6 Unrated
  • K-5 Championship
  • K-5 Under 900
  • K-3 Championship
  • K-3 Under 800
  • K-3 Unrated
  • K-1 Championship

Team Trophies

  • Top 25
  • Top 25
  • Top 25
  • Top 25
  • Top 30
  • Top 25
  • Top 25
  • Top 25
  • Top 25

Individual Trophies

  • Top 20 [plus ties for 20th place]
  • Top 25 [plus ties for 25th place]
  • Top 15 [plus ties for 15th place]
  • Top 30 [plus ties for 30th place]
  • Top 40 [plus ties for 40th place]
  • Top 20 [plus ties for 20th place]
  • Top 30 [plus ties for 30th place]
  • Top 10 [plus ties for 10th place]
  • Top 30 [plus ties for 30th place]

Top five teams receive plaques [five plaques per place - four players plus the coach].

Class trophies to the top three in the following classes:

  • K-6 Championship: 1300-1399; 1200-1299; 1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; Under 800; Unrated.
  • K-5 Championship: 1300-1399; 1200-1299; 1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; Under 800; Unrated.
  • K-3 Championship: 1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; 700-799; 600-699; Under 600; Unrated.
  • K-1 Championship: All players in this section receive a trophy.

All participants will receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the final round.

First place individual and team in the K-6 Championship section, including ties, will be the National Elementary Champion.

Special Events:

Play:

  • National Elementary Bughouse Championship: Thursday 11 am. Bughouse entries on site only. $25 per team. Registration ends at 10 AM Thursday.
  • National Elementary Blitz Championship: Thursday 5 pm. Two Sections: K-6 and K-3. Blitz EF: $15 per player/$20 on site or if after 17 April.
  • Parents and Friends Tournament: 4SS, G/30. Saturday 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 4:30 pm, $20 on site registration only. Rated and unrated sections. Trophies for parent and child combined results.

Meetings:

  • Coaches and Parents meeting: 11 am Friday.
  • Scholastic meeting: 3 pm Saturday.
  • Coaches Forum: 7:00 pm Saturday.
  • Tournament Feedback meeting: 9:30 am Sunday.

Blitz Trophies:

Section

  • K-6 Blitz Championship
  • K-3 Blitz Championship

Team Trophies

  • Top 15
  • Top 10

Individual Trophies

  • Top 20
  • Top 10

Class trophies to the top three in the following classes:

  • K-6 Blitz Championship: 1300-1399; 1200-1299; 1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; Under 800; Unrated.
  • K-3 Blitz Championship: 1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; 700-799; 600-699; Under 600; Unrated.

Notes:

  • For a complete list of all rules and regulations please see the current Scholastic Regulations.
  • Please bring clocks. Sets and score sheets provided.
  • USCF membership through May 2011 is required.
  • Any roster changes made after 17 April 2011 or on site will incur a $20 change fee.
  • Unrated players may play in the Championship Sections or Unrated Sections only!!!
  • 1/2 pt bye any round except seven if requested in advance of Round One (limit one).
  • April 2011 rating supplement will be used in compliance with the guidelines for National Scholastic Events.

Questions: Contact Cody Stewart 931-787-3916 or cstewart@uschess.org.

Filed Under: Scholastic Chess

2011 Scholar-Chessplayer Award Recipients Announced

May 1, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

May 1, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The 2011 Scholar-Chessplayer Award Recipients are:

  • Chaz Daly, FL
  • Andrew Ng, NJ
  • Eigen Wang, NY
  • Kevin Zhang, AZ
  • Andrew Shvartsman, NJ

Congratulations to the winners for their outstanding achievement!

These annual scholarships awarded by the U.S. Chess Trust, the National Scholastic Chess Foundation, and the USCF, are “intended to recognize and encourage high school junior or senior students who promote a positive image of chess.”

High School students who have shown outstanding merits in academics, sportsmanship and chess were eligible to apply to these scholarships. Five awards of $1,500.00 each (total of $7,500) in scholarship money are awarded.

Thanks to the generosity of it’s long-time supporters, the U.S. Chess Trust continues to fund many wonderful programs including the Scholar-Chessplayer Awards.

Donations to the U.S. Chess Trust are tax-deductible.

Special thanks to the National Scholastic Chess Foundation for their contribution to this program.

The U.S. Chess Trust is an independent 501(c)(3), non-profit organization.

Created in 1967, the Trust was organized to promote, stimulate and encourage the study and play of the game of chess as a means of intellectual development. The Trust uses its resources for charitable purposes, including social, educational, scientific, historical endeavors. The U.S. Chess Trust takes an active role in supporting chess education programs across the nation. Our Trustees act without compensation, and are dedicated to the U.S. Chess Trust’s mission.

For more information about the U.S. Chess Trust please visit: www.uschesstrust.org.

The United States Chess Federation (USCF), founded in 1939, serves as the governing body for chess in the United States and is now headquartered in Crossville, Tennessee. USCF is devoted to extending the role of chess in American society. It promotes the study and knowledge of the game of chess, for its own sake as an art and enjoyment, and as a means for the
improvement of society. The USCF is a not-for-profit membership organization with over 80,000 members.

For additional information on the USCF see: http://www.uschess.org.

The National Scholastic Chess Foundation (NSCF) is a non-profit foundation organized for educational purposes under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The NSCF was created in 1991 as a merger between the Westchester Chess Foundation (founded in 1985) and the Fairfield County Chess Foundation. The Executive Director of the NSCF is FIDE Master Sunil Weeramantry.

For additional information on the NSCF see: www.nscfchess.org.

Filed Under: News, Scholastic Chess

2011 National High School (K-12) Championship

April 29, 2011 By Support Leave a Comment

More Than 1,300 Students Compete at the National High School Championship

29 April – 1 May, 2011 · Nashville, TN  (28 April – Bughouse & Blitz)

Location
Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center
2800 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214

“More than 1,300 students compete in Nashville this weekend in the National High School Chess Championship. The competitors, from grades K-12, represent hundreds of students involved in scholastic chess programs across the country. The special guest during the event will be Grandmaster Maurice Ashley, who will give a lecture titled “Disaggregated Learning as the Key to Chess Improvement. Organizers said they expect attendance of 3,800 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center counting families and educators. Read more at the Washington Examiner: http://washingtonexaminer.com/news/2011/04/us-high-school-chess-title-stake-nashville#ixzz1Kv0VEYtw

Round Times:

  • Friday 1 pm, 7pm;
  • Saturday 9 am, 2 pm, 7 pm;
  • Sunday 9 am, 2 pm.
  • Opening Ceremony: 12:30 pm Friday.
  • Awards: 7 pm (approximate) Sunday.

All participants will receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the final round. First place individual and team in the K-12 Championship section, including ties, will be the National High School Champion.

Questions: Contact Cody Stewart 931-787-3916 or cstewart@uschess.org.

Filed Under: Scholastic Chess

Should You Start a Scholastic Chess Club?

December 23, 2010 By Chess Press 2 Comment

With the amazing success of the 2009 SuperNationals, many schools, parents, teachers, and school administrators may be wondering – Should we start a Scholastic Chess Club in our school?

For example, let’s take the Elementary Nationals in 2008 , New York was at # 1 with an amazing 99 schools participating, Pennsylvania was at # 2 with 62 schools participating , and Ohio was at # 3 with 48 schools participating.

Other states have a significantly lower amount of schools participating, but, the benefits of chess are evident and have led to an increasing amount of interest in scholastic chess across the country!

We can help you establish or continue your chess program!

The U.S. Chess Trust provides free U.S. Chess Federation memberships and chess playing equipment to support chess education programs across the nation!

There are two components to the Chess-For-Youth program:

  • Provision of free chess equipment (limit of up to five free boards and sets) to help start your chess program.
  • Provisions of free USCF memberships (limit of ten memberships per school) for needy students who are attending a Title I school and have never been a USCF member before (see definition of Title I under Free Membership Program Criteria).

Members receive a catalog filled with hundreds of the most up-to-date products, access to tournament information in print and on the website, as well as the right to play in rated OTB (over-the-board) and correspondence chess tournaments.

For more info about our program:

Fill out the form, and send it in! Its that simple!

If you have additional questions, comments or concerns, just email us at info@uschesstrust.org.

For additional reading, below is a Guide to Scholastic Chess.

A GUIDE TO SCHOLASTIC CHESS (10th Edition)

PREFACE

Dear Administrator, Teacher, or Coach

This guide was created to help teachers and scholastic chess organizers who wish to begin, improve, or strengthen their school chess program. It covers how to organize a school chess club, run tournaments, keep interest high, and generate parental and public support.

I would like to thank the United States Chess Federation Club Development Committee, especially former Chairman Randy Siebert, for allowing us to use the framework of The Guide to a Successful Chess Club (1985) as a basis for this booklet.

In addition, I want to thank Tom Brownscombe, Director of the International Chess Institute of the Midwest, dba the Anatoly Karpov International School of Chess, and the United States Chess Federation (USCF) for their continuing help in the preparation of this publication. Scholastic chess, under the USCF’s guidance, has greatly expanded and made it possible for the wide distribution of this guide. I look forward to working with them on many projects in the future.

The following scholastic organizers reviewed various editions of this work and made many suggestions, which have been included. Thanks go to Jay Blem (CA), Leo Cotter (CA), Stephan Dann (MA), Bob Fischer (IN), Doug Meux (NM), Andy Nowak (NM), Andrew Smith (CA), Brian Bugbee (NY), Beatriz Marinello (NY), Tom Brownscombe (KS), Alexey Root (TX), and many others too numerous to mention.

Finally, a special thanks to my wife, Susan, who has been patient and understanding.

Dewain R. Barber
American Chess Equipment

NOTE: For forms referenced within this book, check the “Forms” category behind the “Activities & Interests” section of http://www.uschess.org. Keeping the forms on the US Chess website and not in this book will ensure that you have access to the most current version!

This publication is provided free to all schools and scholastic organizers. It is not to be sold for profit.

Contents copyright ©1986, 1990, 1992, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2009 American Chess Equipment, 524 S. Avenida Faro, Anaheim, CA 92807; Telephone (714) 998-5508; Fax (714) 998-1160. E-mail amchesseq@aol.com/

However, republication or widespread copying of all other portions of this publication without the written consent of American Chess Equipment is forbidden.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Tom Brownscombe
PRODUCTION STAFF Dewain Barber, Tom Brownscombe, Joan DuBois, Alexey Root, and Phil Smith.

This publication is produced with the assistance of the U.S. Chess Federation.

This publication is provided free to all schools and scholastic organizers.

Chess Clubs and Chessplayers

The scholastic chess club combines educational and social activities. Members come to play, to learn, to teach, and to get together with old friends and make new ones. The players — no matter what their level of skill, experience, or age— speak a common language, and one that is often not understood in other areas of a person’s life. The rivalries are friendly; the friendships are competitive.

A club can offer a wide variety of activities. There can be speed chess or rated games, or both. Club activities can include simultaneous exhibitions, lectures, and even formal classes taught by chess masters, experts or other experienced players.

Some players who regularly come to a club won’t ever try weekend scholastic tournaments. These avid club players may get their fill of “serious” chess by competing in a club ladder or one game per lunch period club tournaments. Ideally, the club will cater to all types of players — recreational players as well as the serious tournament players. EVERY member is important to the success of the club.

Should You Start a Scholastic Chess Club?

Should you become involved in starting a club in your school?

Yes! It’s not at all necessary for you to be an “expert” player, or even to know how the pieces move!

Every school in the country has kids who already know how to play chess, and more who would like to learn.

“No one at our school plays chess” is not an acceptable excuse. Most of the time kids are interested in learning and only need someone to organize and supervise them.

This guidebook will help you overcome many of the problems you might face in starting a club.

If you have not already done so, you may want to find out the location of the nearest chess club or scholastic/school club.

The United States Chess Federation (abbreviated USCF) and your state chapter are the best sources of information on officially affiliated club locations, scholastic organizers and coaches in your area.

These contacts can help direct you further in your efforts to organize a club or locate other active scholastic chess programs within your area.

Other information sources include local schools, school district offices, newspapers, libraries, chess and game stores, and your local recreation office. You might also consider contacting your local or state Department of Education.

By all means, you should start a club if you have some support from students and the willingness to expend the moderate amount of energy and leadership it will take to make your club a success.

Gain support from the school board, parents, your principal, and other teachers as soon as possible. Their aid will be useful later as the club becomes more active.

The fact that the National Association of Secondary School Principals regularly includes the National High School Chess Championship and the National Scholastic K-12 Grade Chess Championships on its “National Advisory List of Contests and Activities” may be of value in gaining official support for your club.

Read More…Click Here To Access the Complete Article – A Guide To Scholastic Ches (2009 10th Edition) PDF

Filed Under: Articles, Scholastic Chess

3rd Annual Schein-Friedman Awards Announced

October 12, 2010 By Chess Press Leave a Comment

By Mark Schein and Aviv Friedman

October 12, 2010

The Schein – Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project is glad to announce its third year scholarship recipients.

This year’s selection was especially tough, with many qualified applicants, who are amongst the best young players in the country for their respective age group. After long deliberations, we have decided to pick 3 winners, and divide the scholarships evenly among them. Each recipient will be awarded $3000.

…And the winners are:

Samuel Sevian from California, Alena Kats from New York, and Kayden Troff from Utah.

9-year-old Samuel is the youngest player ever to break the rating of 2000 (at age 8), and with his current 2156 (#1 in his age group) stands a chance to become the youngest ever chess master in the history of the USCF. He is a multi-time member of the All American team, and our official representative in the coming World Youth in Greece.

Alena is a 15-year-old, who is the highest ranked girl for her age group. She recently crossed the milestone of 2200, becoming a USCF master, and drawing her first GM. She has represented the US several times in world events, earning a bronze medal at the Pan American games in 2008, and a high 7th place at the World Youth the same year.

At 12, Kayden is topping the rating list in his group, and is #1 on the FIDE list in both North and South America. Last year he took first place and the gold at the North American Youth (under 12 open), in Mexico. This month, Kayden will represent the US at the World Youth in Greece, as our official player in the under 12 section.

The project is designed to help some of our younger champions improve and dedicate themselves more to chess, while offsetting the financial expenses that usually come with those. Hopefully the project will reward excelling youngsters, and help them become tomorrow’s best players and Grandmasters. At the same time they would be serving as role models and inspiration to the entire scholastic community.

The program is generally designed for youngsters age 7-17. Occasionally, in cases of unusual excellence (considerably exceeding the program’s criterions), applications by players up to age 20 would be considered.

Congratulations to all the recipients! A special thank you to all who applied.

Filed Under: News, Scholastic Chess

National Youth Action and K-12s Set for 2010

September 14, 2010 By Chess Press Leave a Comment

National Youth Action Championships

November 5-7, Long Branch, NJ
Ocean Place Resort and Spa


The National Youth Action is a nine-round swiss with a G/30 time control, split up into four sections, K-12, K-9, K-6 and K-3.

The main event takes place on the 6th and 7th while the blitz tournament kicks off the event on Friday the 5th. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP AT THE USCF STORE and see full information on uschess.org/tournaments/2010/nya/.

2010 National K-12 Championships

December 10-12 (blitz and bug on December 9)
Disney Coronado Springs Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida


The 2010 National K-12 returns to Disney World! The main event is seven rounds long and the players are split up into 13 sections so that each participant only faces players in his or her grade. CLICK HERE to Sign up in advance at the USCF store and see details on uschess.org/tournaments/2010/k12/.

The event will also featured special guest GM Ray Robson. Online registration for his simultaneous exhibition will appear later this week. To learn more about Robson, CLICK HERE to see his father’s book, Chess Child by Gary Robson.

Filed Under: News, Scholastic Chess
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