Chess Tournaments for Kids
USCF Rated Scholastic Chess Tournaments
Jersey City, NJ
Grades K-12 are Welcome!
AlphaMinds Chess Tournaments
At AlphaMinds Academy, our Chess Tournaments welcome school-age players of all levels—from beginner to advanced. Held monthly, these official USCF-rated events help students earn rankings and gain real competitive experience.
Using a quad format, players are grouped by rating for three skill-matched games, ensuring fair and challenging competition for everyone. Many participants use these tournaments to practice and apply strategies they’ve learned in AlphaMinds’ chess classes, gaining valuable experience in real-game situations.
Beyond the board, our tournaments provide a supportive environment where young players learn sportsmanship, resilience, and how to handle both wins and losses with confidence. Families often find these events a perfect stepping stone to larger regional and national competitions, while also fostering friendships within the chess community.
In addition to being a leading provider of chess lessons in New Jersey, AlphaMinds offers a variety of enrichment classes designed to help students grow academically, socially, and creatively. A great way for kids to sharpen strategy, build confidence, and connect with fellow chess players!
Upcoming Tournament Details
- Winter 2026 Dates:
January 25, February 1,February 22, March 1,
March 22 - Schedule: Sundays 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Capacity: 48 players
- Format: Quad-style tournament – 3 rounds
- Time Control: G/25; d5
- Location: 225 Morris Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07302 (Boys and Girls Club)
- Fee: $40 per tournament (sign up for multiple tournaments and save!)
- Participants must be current members of the United States Chess Federation. If your child does not have an USCF Member ID, please register here prior to registering for the tournament.
Past Tournament Highlights
Winter 2026
Fall 2025
Spring 2025
Chess Classes
Feeling inspired? Turn tournament excitement into skill! Explore our group chess classes and help your child build strategy, confidence, and critical thinking—on and off the board. For private lessons, please complete the inquiry form.
