Chess Clubs for Junior Players - Guidance for Clubs

The continued success of many clubs is ensured by a steady flow of new members, some of whom may be under 18 years of age. This web page offers advice to clubs wanting to encourage junior membership.

Essential Requirements

• Adults wishing to devote some time to playing chess with the junior members.
• A welcoming and positive attitude towards youngsters and their parents.
• An area within the club where non-playing parents can stay if they wish.
• A No Smoking area where juniors can play.
• At least one adult available on club nights to advise and supervise the juniors. This is important when most adults could be involved in matchplay.
• An area where alcohol is not being served.
• Adequate toilet facilities.

We are sugguesting to parents that juniors who wish to play and improve should consider joining a chess club form about 10 years of age.

The following should make your club attractive to these juniors.

Additional Considerations

• Let local schools know of your club's junior policy.
• Advertise in local papers, local libraries, etc.
• Organise club competitions specifically for juniors, but don't forget to include them in normal club activities and competitions.
• Be prepared to offer places, on merit, in club teams.
• Encourage juniors to play in suitable tournaments.
• Keep parents informed about their youngster's progress, and advise them about tournaments and special chess events.
• Offer some formal or informal coaching.

It is important to respect adults who may wish to play in a junior-free zone. Try to have an area whey they can play their games away from the junior activities.

For more advice or information please contact the ECF Office.