Princeton Day School Chess Tournament

Scholastic Chess Arena – Saturday, December 5!

Step up and play at Princeton Day School

A full afternoon of competitive chess for grades K–12, matched by level, with trophies, medals, and a clear schedule so families know what to expect. Rated or brand new—every student has a section. No previous tournament experience is required!

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026
• Where: PDS Gymateria, 650 Great Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
• Who: Grades K–12 (rated and unrated)
• On-site registration: 11:15 AM
• Check-in (preregistered): by 11:45 AM
• Players meeting + first round: 12:00 PM (all sections)
• Usually ends: before 4:30 PM

Preregistration closes Friday, November 6!
$50 online by December 4  |  $60 on-site (space permitting)
Cash, check to “CHESS TEACH 2,” or card.

Sections

Unrated

• No Score (K–1, new players)
• K–1 (must know how to checkmate)
• Novice 1 (K–6 beginners)

Rated — US Chess membership required

• Novice 2 (K–8, under 600)
• Reserve (K–12, under 800)
• Open (K–12, under 1000)
• Championship (K–12, 1000–1399)

Join US Chess: secure2.uschess.org

Format & Time Control

• Swiss pairings
• Under 1000 and unrated sections: 4 rounds, G25/d5 or G/30
• Championship: 3 rounds, G40/d5
• Half-point bye available if requested in advance by email

Awards

Every player receives a medal or trophy. Trophies for the top six players and top three teams in each scored section. Over-1000 sections: top four individual trophies (no team awards). Teams need at least two players from the same school or club; top three scores count.

What to Bring

• Chess clock (if you have one)
• Pen or pencil for notation
• Nut-free lunch or snacks (optional — snacks and drinks are sold on site)
• Boards and pieces are provided

REGISTER NOW – $50 until Friday December 4

More info: www.onthechessboard.com  |  US Chess Event Page

Free on-site parking (use the entrance near the Gymateria; do not park in fire lanes). A parent or guardian should stay for the tournament. Campus Center Wi-Fi is available. Questions? Contact Jairo Moreira via the website.

Let's Play!