Around the world, more and more schools are looking at chess as a tool for improving children’s cognitive abilities. The demand for chess clubs has grown rapidly, along with one major concern:
how do you get started?
Around the world, more and more schools are looking at chess as a tool for improving children’s cognitive abilities. The fuss for the chess club has been growing rapidly, along with one major concern: how do you get started?
To begin with, there are six basic things to starting a club: (1) Club Founder (2) Players and Player needs (3) Site Headquarters (4) Equipment for Games (5) Training and (6) Lots of Energy.
The founding body needs to consist of systematic and patient individuals who can direct the club. Founders must remember to maintain a consistent and high-headed approach. The central concern should be the progress of the playing team.
Setting Up A Chess Club
Needless to say, to be called a club, players are needed too. A marketing strategy that always works is to encourage membership by providing solid recognition to existing players and adequate publicity about their matches. The intention of the club and all associated benefits must be underlined. There is always a need for equipment and time donations from parents, and the organizing team should hesitate to ask for them. Still confused about how to publicly disclose your call for membership? Try saying that chess is a fantastic way to socialize and be smart!
The value of designating a club headquarters is something the founders should not ignore. Come to think of it, all clubs need a place to meet. There are several to choose from. You should be able to secure a large space in one of the classrooms, at a local community center, at home or in a commercial business center. You don’t have to spend extra to get the site to work. A well-lit room equipped with tables and chairs that can comfortably accommodate all members should be sufficient.
Game equipment is something that you can easily get. Get the full chess set, but if you can get the clock too, so much the better. Can you imagine the members gathering on top of the chess set, because they need to take turns and wait for the game to end? The view is like a turn! What a test of patience! Let the club set up equipment before any match. Also, a timed game of chess helps maintain hourly play. No need to own exotic chess equipment; simple but functional equipment will suffice.
The fifth block, Teaching, is about spreading knowledge. However, the entertainment value that chess offers should not be ignored. Severe chess practice and matches can very well prevent members from pursuing the game. Find a sweet spot between perseverance and recreation. Remember, hard work is a stepping stone to success, however, all work and no play makes Jack a boring kid!
Finally, the last, but most important factor: Enthusiasm. You will need a lot of energy in goal setting. Founders and regular members may have varied goals. Pragmatic goals such as entering a local tournament on an upcoming date motivate the players to set personal goals.
Running a chess club is not as simple as on paper and it will certainly take your time and energy to establish one. However, the success of your club is well worth all the persistence of the club.