Q: Is my child ready for the Friday night tournaments?
A: We have only one requirement: That the parents and child respect the atmosphere that I try to create. My main goal is to create an environment that is comfortable for children and their parents. Since I opened a couple years ago, I emphasized three things: Focus, Sportsmanship, and Safety. I believe that the Panda Chess Academy is one of the best chess clubs in the country because we have wonderful kids who try their best to focus on their chess games, exercise great sportsmanship, and foster a safe environment physically and emotionally.
There is zero tolerance for any poor sportsmanship, bullying, or distracting behavior. Tournament directors have absolutely no problem forfeiting, suspending, or even banning players who disturb the concentration of another player or tournament director. We select members not based on their chess talent, but their ability to respect their peers. These expectations make our club very unique.
This atmosphere is great for chess players of any level. The players have a lot of fun and improve rapidly. We have had many children as young as 6 years old experience their first rated tournament at the Panda Chess Academy. We help new tournament players become familiar with the United States Chess Federation rules. We offer a very comfortable environment for young children especially. If a child finishes their game early, they are welcome to quietly watch a G rated movie projected on the wall in the "movie theater" room, study chess on one of our many computers, or spend their free time relaxing however they choose (as long as it doesn't distract the other players).
Q: Can I drop off my child at the tournament and pick them up later?
A: Only if the child is mature enough. It is required that the parent fill out all contact-information paperwork. The parent must walk their child into the office and sign in with them. The child will have to follow all rules without distracting players or the tournament directors, or they risk being suspended or expelled from the club. The door to the office building locks at 6pm, so parents must remember the gate code of #003 to get "buzzed" in or have the office phone number. If the child wishes to use the rest room (located right next to our office) he or she must let a tournament director or adult know.
Q: How long do tournaments usually last?
A: The longest a tournament can possibly go is 3 hours, but most tournaments usually finish in approximately 2-2.5 hours.
Q: Does my child have to play all 3 games?
A: Players are welcome to take byes and miss as many rounds as they wish. If a player wishes to only play one game a week that is fine. Just let the tournament director know ahead of time.
Q: How many players play in Friday night events?
A: Although we can accommodate 30 players, I enjoy having a tournament with approximately 12-18 people. To me this is the perfect number for a quality 3 round tournament. The reason I only allow a certain number of members is so I can help control the numbers of players entering weekly tournaments. I really enjoy having a regular group with a few guests on various weekends. I also try to invite players of various levels so no one will feel unchallenged.
