Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
DC Youth Chess League
Partners and Supporter's
Funded by Department of Behavioral Health DBH
Program Highlights
Learn Chess Strategy On and Off The Board
DC Youth Chess Development Program
Our Mission
The Big Chair Chess Club Youth Chess League (YCL) is dedicated to empowering middle school and high school students in Washington, D.C.’s Ward 7 and Ward 8 through chess. Guided by our motto, “Always Think B4U Move!”, the program helps youth build stronger decision-making skills while promoting academic excellence, leadership, and positive life choices. Our mission is to provide young people with safe and structured opportunities that keep them away from drugs, crime, and violence—encouraging them instead to pursue excellence and contribute something better to their community. YCL members will also have the opportunity to compete in local and national events such as the DC Scholastic Chess Competition, city championships, National Chess Championships, and even Super Nationals, which may involve travel outside the state.
Vision
We envision a league where Ward 7 and Ward 8 youth are given opportunities to grow through chess while representing their schools and community centers. Guided by caring coaches and mentors, students gain confidence, resilience, and discipline. By combining chess with education and life skills, YCL prepares young people for success both on and off the board. Fueled by Project ALERT — guiding youth toward wellness, purpose, and substance-free living.
Professional Chess Coaching
Youth will be trained by titled chess coaches, including Experts, Masters, and International Chess Masters, to strengthen their skills and prepare for competitive play.
Competitive Chess
Free Big Chair Chess Club membership. Sponsored USCF Chess membership with opportunities to compete in Local & National Competition: Participate in the DC Scholastic Chess Competition, city championships, and other local events—with possibly to compete and take part in a National Chess Championships or Super National tournament.
Special Prizes
Opportunities to participate in special tournaments awarding cash prizes, along with other exciting prizes and trophies
Team Building & Field Trips
Activities designed to strengthen relationships, build trust, and create lasting memories.
College Prep
Guidance on what it takes to prepare for college, including study skills, goal-setting, and exposure to higher education opportunities. Made possible by Howard University Chess Club.
Learn About Chess Scholarships
The world of chess can be rewarding offering cash scholarship toward any institution or even full / partial scholarships to Universities.
Workforce Exposure
Workforce development opportunities with hands-on exposure to Information Technology (IT) careers and skilled trade programs such as HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical made possible by Forge Pathways.
Project Alert!
Empowered by Project ALERT — teaching focus, confidence, and resilience for drug and substance prevention.
Program Requirments
Requirements
- Must be a Ward 7 or Ward 8 resident
- Must be able to attend chess program activities two evenings per week
- Tournament activities may be scheduled on weekends (schedule will be provided in advance)
- Participation is free, but the program has been locally funded and requires full commitment
- All participants are required to take part in the Project ALERT Substance Abuse Prevention program, which includes monthly sessions, presentations, surveys, and breakout discussions
- By signing up, students and parents/guardians agree that participants may be filmed or photographed, and such media may be shared on social media, marketing, or promotional materials for the program
Sponsors & Funding
This program is proudly sponsored by Transformers, ACC R.O.P.E., and is funded by the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).
Meet Chess Coaches
International Chess Master Adu
Downloads
Copyright © 2024 Big Chair Chess Club - All Rights Reserved. Big Chair Chess Club is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible organization.
Big Chair Chess Club, Think B4U Move-ment!
- BCCC Membership Plans
- Chess School Programs
- Chess Resources
- Chess Classes
- Events
- Youth Chess DC Ward 7-8
- Our Mission
- Board of Directors/Staff
- BCCC Legacy
- Coaches
- Donate
- Volunteer With Us
- Shop
- Our Community Partners
- Contact Us
- The Big Chess Social
- Martha's Table
- Think B4U Move Blog
- Jobs
- Poetic Checkmate
- Privacy Policy
- Terms and Conditions
- Chess Alliance