Chess Club of the Year Awards: Nominations Open

Each year, the U.S. Chess Federation honors clubs that go above and beyond in promoting the game and serving their communities through the Chess Club of the Year Awards. Three clubs are recognized each year in the Large, Medium, and Small Club categories so that clubs of all sizes have the chance to be celebrated. 

Large Clubs have 51 or more members, Medium Clubs have 16 to 50 members, and Small Clubs have 3 to 15 members. Membership numbers should be based on either average attendance or an annual membership list.

Winners are chosen based on several factors, including, community outreach, membership growth, innovation and creativity, player and director development, and overall organization and leadership. The recipients are announced each summer during the U.S. Open.

The nomination period for the 2026 awards opened January 1, 2026, and closes April 2, 2026. Clubs may self nominate or be nominated by their state chapter. Clubs are encouraged to submit details about what makes their club special and why they should qualify for Club of the Year. If you think your club is deserving of this honor, reach out to Paul Covington (Click here to show email address) Chair of the Clubs Committee for US Chess.