Quick updated - ICCA - December

[Erik Czerwin]

Coaches,

What an incredible season it has been so far.  November chess has been absolutely nail-biting.  Matches are tight, the chess is crazy fun, and the smiles are real.

Check in on the ongoing season results on the ICCA Team Data Sheer, found here: https://goo.gl/42pYk7

There's several more chances to play chess with the team and individually before winter break, check the ICCA Schedule here: https://www.ilchesscoach.org/Schedule

Remember, it's most helpful to Register and let hosts know you're planning on bringing your school and then send your lineups/rosters later (usually no later than the Wednesday before the event)  Or, better yer, just include your entire likely roster and drop players at check-in.   All teams are welcome to compete at ICCA tournaments.  We, as coaches, are opening opportunities for all players, teams, and coaches.  Think the competition is too tough?  Ask those coaches how they do it?  Think the competition is too weak?  Share your tips and tricks with the new/struggling coach! We are really nothing more than the conversations that we have in the hospitality room, lifting one another up.  Join in and be a positive part of the ICCA!

Look for another update as you head into winter break and then we'll be back with a newsletter in January.  Happy holidays coaches.  I am grateful to serve you and your efforts; thank you for guiding young people to this incredible game and all that it offers.  I appreciate you.  Enjoy the short break, then I'll see you over the boards soon!

Two Weekends in December to compete with your team!

Saturday, December 6th

- Palatine Pirate - 4 rounds of G/55;d5 in 8-board Varsity, 5-board JV, and HS Individual Open makes this a premier event every year since 2019.  Coach Fisher-Rohde (ICCA Coach of the Year 2021) and Coach Adam Levey (ICCA Coach of the Year 2025) always make this event a fun, competitive, all-around excellent experience.  See y'all there!

- Bolingrbook Raider - This 8-board team and Individual Open event has been running for decades as has been a staple tournament for as long.  Coaches Kurtz and Hitzeman are working with TD Glenn Panner and crew to makes this year no different.  Coach Tallon's spirit will live on in this legendary event.  Register today!

- King of Germantown Hills - This K-12 event offers team competition in 8-board, 5-board, and Individual formats AS WELL as K-8 sections in rated games.  A great example of what downstate tournaments are all about, register today for a great experience!

Saturday, December 13th

- The Brimfield Open  - A staple event in the Central IL circuit, don't miss Coach Bernale's crew and hospitality.  Nothing beats their events for efficiency and fun.  This is one event well worth the trip, so book your buses and register now!

- Huntley Red Raider - With easy access from I-90, the Huntley Red Raider draws a competitive crowd and multiple sections for K-8 players as well!  This is a great way to develop your feeder programs and help coaches connect before winter break.  Check it out!

- Kelly Invitational - The Kelly Invite is hosted by Coach Neal Suwe and is highly exclusive to the teams that can fit in the venue.  To take your chance at this small event, email coach Suwe ASAP.

- Bishop Mac Tournament - Coach Austin Earsley is a chess force to be reckoned with, and his up-and-coming program hosts his 5-board event.  Check it out for a great experience with a great group of motivated coaches!

- Glenbard Medley - Another Glenbard event offers 4 rounds of increasing time controls.  Check it out.

-- Erik Czerwin

Assistant Director of Events - US Chess

Secretary - Illinois Chess Coaches Association

Elevating Chess Experiences - Prairie View Hobbies