We are happy to support youth chess development in North Florida / South Georgia by offering training, tournaments and connection to the larger chess community. After years, we have moved the program to SCHOLASTICCHESS.ORG and a new location at SOUTHSIDE BAPTIST Church. See their website for costs and session dates.
Continue reading for more information about the program.
Chess Skills Development Program (Sunday)
Instruction in chess can be very expensive and personal coaching can cost as little as $50/hr to over $100/hr (depending location and coach's qualifications). The program we created offers students coaching at about $5/hour. Classes are Sundays at SOUTHSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH (San Marco square) from 1:30 to 4:00 pm in five groups from absolute beginner to National Championship competitive players.
New students have addition on-time cost for a Player Starter bundle that includes (US Chess Youth Membership, JAXCC youth membership, Club T-shirt, tournament regulation chess set, regulation chessboard, carry bag, training workbook and notation book. Returning students pay a low continuation fee in the hope they will return and get stronger by continued participation in our program.
The Program Director, Kevin Pryor, is a seasoned tournament player and state/nationally recognized leader in the chess community. He is US Chess certified as both a Chess Coach and a Tournament Director. The staff is made up of certified tournament directors and certified Chess Coaches who are kind and supportive of budding "masters" and some even travel to tournaments to help their students.
Aside from becoming the best chess player in your family/neighborhood/school, the intangible benefits are kids learn to think before they make decisions, handle personal disappointment and develop the "grit" needed in life to push through habits or other growth-limiting behaviors. However, above all, they have the opportunity to make lifelong friends as they embark upon a lifelong love of chess.
Resources for Parents & Youth Players
Introduction to Scholastic Tournaments by Georgia Chess Assn.