Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone play at the Seattle Chess Club or do you have to be really good, like an expert?
All levels of players are most welcome, from beginner to master; for tournament or casual play. All ages are welcome.
How do I get a rating?
You need to join the United States Chess Federation (info at www.uschess.org) and play rated tournament games. You can join the USCF at the SCC or on-line and play rated games at the Seattle Chess Club.
How much does membership in the SCC cost?
Full adult, $120 for one year (or 3 installments of $40); Senior (65 and over), $90 for one year (or 3 installments of $30); Students $70 (or $40+$30) for one year; Scholastic (K-6) $50 for one year; Family, $200 for one year. Membership helps support chess in the Northwest and entitles the member to free rated games on Friday evening all year, and discounts on all tournaments that have entry fees and prizes.
Should I just come, or do I need to pre-register for the first visit?
Just come any time we are open. The first visit is free in any case, and you can see if you enjoy it.
So when are you open?
The club opens at 7:00 p.m. every Friday. Rated tournament games start at 8:00 p.m. You can play the tournament games by joining USCF on site, or play casual chess. On Wednesdays, the club opens at 7:00 p.m. for non-rated games for practice and improvement and for the joy of playing. The first visit is free and thereafter a $2 donation is requested. It is not necessary to join anything. Seniors are especially encouraged, and we can arrange an earlier start if enough interest is shown therein. Handicap access is available and chess equipment is provided. We think you will like our new location (2150 N. 107th St., Seattle WA 98133). In addition the club is open one Saturday and one Sunday each month for tournament play and a full weekend of chess tournament play about every two months.
Hope to see you soon. Let’s play chess!