Frequently Asked Questions
The San Diego Chess Club, America's Finest Chess Club is at 2225 6th Ave in beautiful Balboa Park. Thanks to the City of San Diego for making a significant investment in San Diego chess
Where can I learn how to play?
As of now, the club does not have an instructional chess program. Resources for independent study can be found online (chess.com, introductory guides, etc). The club is currently considering plans to start a teaching program, please stay tuned!
My child knows how to play and is interested in learning more about the game. What should I do?
Please check out SDCC's Scholastic Program. Kids are welcome to register and play at any of our weekly tournaments.
I’m an adult who knows how to play. I’m interested in playing competitive chess in San Diego. How do I start?
To play in the adult programs (detailed on our home page) all you need to do is show up and be prepared to register with the United States Chess Federation. You can play in your first tournament without paying the entry fee (renewing USCF members must pay an entry fee). Tournament play requires that players keep score of their games and use a chess clock. See the document "TournamentChess_Intro.pdf" on our resources page for specific information on tournament rules. There are also San Diego Chess Club dues for the Wednesday night adult program. Club dues for the Saturday program are only charged after players have won prizes over a certain threshold.
How do I join the San Diego Chess Club?
Annual club dues are $72 for adults. Discounts for Military, Youth and Seniors (please check the Membership tab). You must be a club member to play Wednesday nights. If you play Saturdays, club dues are dependent on your tournament success.
I am interested in taking lessons from a local chess coach. Who do I contact?
Please see the club’s resources page for some amazing chess coaches in the area.
I just want to play casual chess without joining the United States Chess Federation?
The San Diego Chess Club is primarily setup for competitive tournament play. The club is looking to start an active casual play program in the future; however, as of now, all our tournaments require a USCF membership. If you pay for club membership you are welcome to play casually at the club, but most players will be playing in rated tournaments.
Can I rent space at the San Diego Chess Club?
Most likely if the event is chess-related, but we evaluate on a case-by-case basis. Please send an inquiry to the club sandiegochessclub@gmail.com