With 2010 coming to Tacoma, the SSCCA is supporting South Sound Schools that want to start a club. The following are the basics that we have learned in starting our chess club and how to keep it sustainable.
So here is the list of what you will need.
1. Volunteers. You need a few parents who are willing to help out for an hour a week. They don't even need to be a chess master. It helps if they know the basics, but if not, there are plenty of resources out there, and there is no shame in learning the game with your students!
2. Space. Get permission from the school to meet in either the library, gym or a classroom. The best time to meet for a chess club tends to be right after school.
3. Chess Sets. The only equipment that is absolutely necessary for a beginning club is chess boards. Approach your PTA so see if they can purchase 10 boards for the club (cost about $60). As well, some local club are always replacing boards and may have some gently used boards to give to starting clubs. Contact Us if you need help getting boards.
4. Network. Get to know the area clubs, this site is a good starting point! Many area coaches are starting to post their club tournament on this site.
5. Tournaments. Having one tournament a year is key for raising funds that will support sustainability for your club, as well is another opportunity to get to know the other clubs in the area. Running a tournament is easier than you think... you can reference the WSHSCA website for their ideas or click here to see how we have run ours for the past four years. We usually make at least $1000 which we use for purchasing chess clocks, boards, teaching materials, and other neat chess rewards for the kids as well as gives us the ability to give scholarships and support to any families that need it.
That is pretty much it. Keep a good sense of humor, and have fun with it. Any questions, just Contact us.