FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Westchester Chess Club open to all ages and skill levels?
Absolutely. Our members range in age from 5 to over 80, and in experience from beginners to seasoned tournament players. Everyone is welcome.

When and where does the Club meet?
We meet every Thursday night from 7:30 to 10:30 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 25 Crane Rd, Scarsdale, NY 10583 (second floor). Tournament games begin at 8:00 PM sharp. Ample parking is available. The church building must be cleared by 10:30 PM. Time controls are set so that all games should conclude by 10:20 PM.

How do I become a member?
Reach out to us at admin@westchesterchessclub.com to get on the mailing list. Annual dues are $80 for adults and $40 for students. Payment is accepted via Zelle (admin@westchesterchessclub.com), Venmo (@westchesterchessclub), or in person with the Club Treasurer by cash, check, or credit card. Once your dues are paid, you'll be added to our email list and receive tournament details, sign-up links, and club news.

Do I need a USCF membership to play?
Yes — a current USCF membership is required to participate in rated tournaments. You can join at uschess.org. The Club can also process your USCF membership or renewal at the same price listed on the USCF website. All USCF tournament rules apply at our club, including touch-move, score notation, phone etiquette, and other standard regulations. Members should be familiar with the Official Rules of Chess, 7th Edition (select chapters available here).

What tournament formats do you run?
We typically run quads and Swiss tournaments over three to five weeks, with one game per night. We also occasionally hold one-night rapid or blitz events. The time control for multi-week tournaments is usually G/65;d5; one-night events are typically G/15;d5 to fit three rounds in an evening. The schedule is posted on the website and distributed via club emails.

How do I sign up for a tournament?
Registration links are sent out weekly by email. Please sign up at least two days before the tournament starts — registration is never automatic. The Tournament Director posts the registration list during the sign-up period so you can confirm your spot. For a full overview of rules and practices, see our Tournament Rules page.

Can I join a tournament that's already in progress?
Generally, no — you'll need to wait for the next tournament. The exception is Swiss tournaments: if you reach out to the Tournament Director within the first week, you may be able to enter with a half-point bye.

Are there casual games if I'm not in a tournament?
Yes. Feel free to stop by and see if other members are up for a friendly game, though we can't guarantee opponents will be available.

Can I just come and watch?
Of course — newcomers are always welcome to come by and observe before deciding to join.

What equipment do I need to bring?
You are responsible for your own chess set, clock, and score sheets. The Club does not supply equipment. Please make sure you know how to operate your clock before your first tournament game.

What if I can't make it to every round?
You can request an advance half-point bye for any round you'll miss by emailing the club or contacting the Tournament Director at least 24 hours before the round, or before pairings are posted — whichever comes first. If you miss the deadline, the game will be scored as a forfeit. Please always notify the TD if you can't make it, so your opponent doesn't make an unnecessary trip.

What if I need to drop out of a tournament entirely?
For tournaments with an entry fee, you are entitled to a full refund — or credit toward a future tournament — if you withdraw at least 48 hours before the first round, or before pairings are posted. Standard club membership covers all regular (non-championship) tournaments regardless of how many rounds you play.

Is there prize money?
Most tournaments are for bragging rights only. The exception is the annual Club Championship, a six-round Swiss open to all members. The entry fee is $20, with all proceeds awarded as prizes.

How are player ratings determined for each tournament?
We use the most recent USCF ratings supplement when setting up each tournament, rather than real-time rating changes that may appear on your USCF profile page.

What happens if a section doesn't have enough players?
With typically 40–50 players per tournament, we can usually fill two or three sections, as needed. 

Does the Club offer chess instruction?
Not formally, but we can connect you with local instructors. Many members are happy to review games informally, though it's not an official part of club activities.

Can I eat or drink at the club?
Bottled water is the only food or beverage permitted in the church. The kitchen is strictly off limits.

Is the venue handicap accessible?
Yes. We can accommodate players with mobility needs on the church's lower level. Please contact us in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements.