Tournament Rules
All gameplay is conducted under official USCF guidelines. Whether you are in a Rated or Casual division, the standards of fair play apply to everyone.
01 Divisions & Time Controls
The tournament is organized into six divisions. All divisions use an increment to ensure fair play during time pressure.
| Division | Type | Time Control | USCF ID Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-5 Rated | Rated | G/30 + 5 sec increment | ✓ Yes |
| K-5 Casual | Casual | G/30 + 5 sec increment | No |
| 6-12 Rated | Rated | G/30 + 5 sec increment | ✓ Yes |
| 6-12 Casual | Casual | G/30 + 5 sec increment | No |
| Open Rated | Rated | G/45 + 5 sec increment | ✓ Yes |
| Open Casual | Casual | G/45 + 5 sec increment | No |
📌 Rated players must present a valid, active USCF ID at the check-in desk. This does not apply to Casual divisions.
02 Tournament Format
Swiss System
All divisions use the Swiss-system pairing. Players are paired against opponents with similar scores each round — no eliminations.
4 Rounds
Each division plays 4 rounds. All rounds for all divisions begin simultaneously at 9:00 AM.
Round Transitions
The next round begins 5–10 minutes after the final game of the previous round in your division concludes.
30-Min Break
A 30-minute break after Round 2 for all divisions. Break times are staggered — K-12 break is earlier, Open break is later, due to different game lengths.
03 Gameplay Rules
Reporting Scores
Once a game concludes, both players must report to the Tournament Director (TD) immediately to record the result. Do not leave the table before reporting.
Touch-Move Rule
If you touch a piece, you must move it (if a legal move is available). If you touch an opponent's piece, you must capture it.
Seeking Help
Game coordinators are available throughout the hall. If you have a question or a dispute, stop the clock and raise your hand for the TD or a coordinator. Do not speak to other players or spectators about your game in progress.
Equipment
Please bring your own USCF-standard board and digital clock if available. A limited number of boards and clocks will be provided for those who do not have one.
Notation
Rated players are encouraged to keep score (notation) as per USCF guidelines. Notation is not required for Casual divisions.
04 Etiquette & Conduct
Sportsmanship
Shake hands before and after every game. Maintain respect toward all players, volunteers, and guests throughout the day.
Silence in the Hall
Maintain silence while rounds are in progress. Conversations should be taken outside the tournament hall.
Electronics
Cell phones and smartwatches must be turned off or silenced during gameplay. Use of electronic devices during a game may result in a forfeit.
Parents & Guardians
Visitors and parents must stay in designated areas while rounds are in progress to maintain a smooth tournament flow.
Official USCF Rulebook
This tournament follows all official United States Chess Federation rules and regulations. Download the full USCF rulebook for complete details on gameplay, scoring, and tournament conduct.