WESTCHESTER CHESS CLUB PROGRAM - FALL 2026
GENERAL NOTES
See FAQs for Club and tournament rules.
The door opens on Thursdays at 7:30pm; games start at 8:00pm. Door closes at 10:30pm.
Those using analog clocks, add 5 minutes to G/ time announced.
Please note: there will be no makeup games. Byes granted by the Tournament Director.
No food allowed in any church areas; drinks – water only.
Access to the kitchen is not allowed. Access to small upstairs rooms only as defined by T.D.
Parents are asked to supervise the youngest players.
Leave the play area and the building in order, as you found it.
SCHEDULE OF GAMES
8 Oct Open Night, friendly games. WCC board meeting.
15 Oct Late Fall Swiss 5 Rounds G/65;d5” (G/70 analog). First Round
22 Oct Late Fall Swiss 5 Rounds G/65;d5”. Second Round
29 Oct Late Fall Swiss 5 Rounds G/65;d5”. Third Round
5 Nov Lecture and simul by 3-time WCC Champion Michael Knatz
12 Nov Late Fall Swiss 5 Rounds G/65;d5”. Fourth Round
19 Nov Late Fall Swiss 5 Rounds G/65;d5”. Fifth Round
26 Nov Club closed, Thanksgiving Day
3 Dec Double Swiss, G/25;d5” (G30 analog), same opponent 2 games as White & Black, First Round
10 Dec Double Swiss, G/25;d5”, Second Round
17 Dec Double Swiss, G/25;d5”, Third Round
24 Dec Club closed, Christmas Eve
31 Dec Club closed, New Year’s Eve
2027 Winter-Spring Schedule to be posted on WCC website at the end of 2026
Starting the game
Before the game begins, both players should verify that the clock is set correctly and functioning properly. Black decides where to place the clock. Black also starts White's clock to begin the game after confirming White is ready.
Notation
Written notation is required for all games with a time control of 25 minutes or longer.
Cell Phones
Players' cell phones should be turned completely off(not silenced or placed in Airplane Mode). A player whose cell phone rings, or who uses a cell phone, during a game may first receive a warning. Further offenses will result in a loss of the game in progress.
Touch-Move (Section 10)
If you touch one of your own pieces, you must move it. If you touch an opponent's piece while it is your turn, you must capture it. If no legal capture is possible, you are free to make any legal move.
Stopping the Clock
If a dispute arises — over touch-move, an illegal move, or any other matter — either player may stop the clock and call over a Tournament Director. Please make sure you know how to stop and restart your clock before your first game.
Illegal Moves (Section 11)
If you make an illegal move and press the clock, you must return the piece and make a legal move with that same piece. Your opponent may request the standard penalty of up to two minutes added to their clock. Please know how to add time to your clock before play begins.
Reporting Results
Both players must record the game result in ink on the results sheet. Any corrections must be made by a Tournament Director.
Sportsmanship
It is customary to shake hands with your opponent before the game begins and again at its conclusion.
Resigning
A player who resigns should lay their king on its side to clearly signal their intent.
Draw Offers (Section 14-B1)
A draw may only be offered after you have decided on your move but before you press the clock. Your opponent may accept verbally or decline either verbally or by deliberately touching a piece. Once made, a draw offer cannot be withdrawn until your opponent has responded.
Above all, we are a friendly club. Please be considerate to the Tournament Directors, welcoming to new players, and gracious to your opponents. Enjoy the game!