Bay Area Chess

The mission of Bay Area Chess is to provide everyone with enjoyable activities that develop intellectual, mathematical, analytical, visual, and personal skills. Our motto is "Transforming lives through chess." We work hard to bring the vibrant game of chess to people of all ages, from masters to people who have never played a game. And we believe in the statement "Chess is life," as the game of chess has something to teach all of us about living.

BayAreaChess started as a parent volunteer organization when our founder’s son moved to a school with a low-quality, high-cost commercial program. Our work was so successful that other parents started requesting programs at their schools. We quickly evolved from a local chess club into a truly professional organization by applying innovation and sound business practices to support our rapid growth.

We disrupted school enrichment programs, transforming chess coaching from a part-time contract gig to a viable career, treating coaches--who are the heart of any chess organization--as the professionals they are and compensating them at the highest rates in the industry, hiring them as employees with benefits, and supporting them with training and dedicated human resources staff. We leveraged the varied talents of our dedicated team of volunteers--without whom we would not be able to function--and expanded the scope of chess organization volunteers. And we continue to innovate. While COVID suspended/closed chess clubs nationwide, we pioneered online offerings & grew.

After 15 years, we are one of the most successful chess organizations in the US & the foremost 501(c)(3) non-profit chess organization on the West Coast. Still, our core values remain unchanged: treat all children like we would treat our own.

We employ the largest professional coaching staff, capitalize on the diverse talents of our volunteers, organize tournaments across Northern California, operate clubs/teams @the highest levels, & provide quality chess coaching from rookies to masters.

Named 2018 Chess Club of the Year by the US Chess Federation, BayAreaChess is the #1 USCF affiliate west of Texas for more than 10 years running (2008-2021).