Cedar Creek Catering’s Fellowship Hall in the borough of Media:
350 West State Street
Media, PA 19063
(entrance on Lemon Street)

See the location page for more details including where to park and how to enter the building, including photo references.

Tuesdays at 6:30pm. The cut-off for check-in is 7:00pm; pairings will be up shortly thereafter. Those arriving after the cut-off will not be able to play a rated game; however, they are welcome to play unrated games against others who arrived late or prefer to play unrated. 

It depends on your game. Based on the time control, all games should be over by 10pm. If yours finishes early, you are welcome to observe other matches provided you maintain a quiet environment during active, rated play.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of the cut-off in order to get signed up and acquainted with the format.

There are no age restrictions; however, we do ask that children under the age of 12 be accompanied by an adult for the duration of play.

To play rated games you will need to be a member of the United States Chess Federation (USCF) which charges an annual fee. Additionally, we ask for a yearly contribution of $20 ($10 for those joining after June).

Yes. And if you sign up or renew through the Media Chess Club, we receive between $1-3 (with no extra cost to the member). It isn’t a lot but helps keep the lights on. 

Dues strictly cover the cost of running the club. The organizers and tournament directors do not earn any money.

The club has a range of skill and experience levels. All are encouraged to join, including beginners. Depending on the turnout, we may offer sections to ensure members are paired against similarly skilled opponents.

4 or 5 round Swiss system tournaments. Each week will be one round. Players may join at any point in a tournament and do not have to attend each round.

60 minutes per side with a 5 second delay (G/60 d/5). This means games count toward both Regular and Quick ratings.

Results are reported to the United States Chess Federation (USCF) the day following the final round of the tournament.

There will be extra equipment (boards, pieces, digital clocks, score sheets, and pens), but it is on a first come, first serve basis. Plan to bring a board, pieces, clock, and writing instrument if you intend to play rated games.

Don’t let the chess jargon intimidate you. You will quickly get the hang of chess notation and other aspects of playing rated games. True beginners should plan to arrive 30-45 minutes early so a member of the club can help get you started. If possible, reach out a few days ahead so we can help you get set.