Support the Texas Chess Association

The Texas Chess Association is the official state chapter of the United States Chess Federation. We oversee and support organized chess activity across Texas, including major championship events, scholastic tournaments, and regional coordination.

TCA is a volunteer-run nonprofit that exists to serve the chess community. We do not exist to make a profit. Our role is to ensure that:

  • Texas has fair, consistent, high quality chess events
  • Students and schools have access to official competitions and recognition
  • Local organizers and volunteers have the structure and calendar to grow programs
  • The integrity of tournament play is protected through transparency and oversight

We often get questions about how things work. Here are the most common:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does TCA actually do?

TCA is the only organization in Texas authorized to award official state championship titles, such as State Scholastic Champion, State Girls Champion, and State Amateur Champion.

We manage the statewide calendar, approve bids for official events, oversee elections, and coordinate regional activity. While we do not run clubs or coach students, we provide the structure that allows players, schools, and organizers to compete fairly and consistently.

2. Who runs TCA events?

Most official events are run by outside organizers, such as chess clubs, nonprofits, schools, or experienced tournament directors. Once approved by the board, these organizers are fully responsible for planning and running the event.

That includes booking the venue, hiring staff, managing registration, and covering all financial costs. TCA approves the bid, promotes the event, and ensures the results are recognized as official.

TCA does sometimes run its own events, especially larger or high-profile ones like Super State. In those cases, we take on full planning responsibility.

3. How does the bidding process work?

TCA accepts bids year round from affiliates interested in hosting official state events.

Organizers submit a proposal with details about the location, venue, staff, and logistics. The TCA board reviews each proposal and votes on whether to approve it.

If approved, the organizer agrees to follow TCA rules and takes full responsibility for running the event. TCA provides oversight, promotion, and official recognition.

4. Why doesn’t TCA run tournaments directly?

TCA is a volunteer-led organization without full-time staff. Running multiple major tournaments across Texas would require resources we simply do not have at this time.

Allowing experienced local organizers to host events helps expand access, build regional leadership, and involve more communities. TCA still ensures all recognized events meet high standards and are run professionally.

5. Can anyone bid to host an event?

No. Only TCA affiliates may submit a bid to host an official state event. Affiliates may be clubs, schools, nonprofits, or individuals registered with TCA.

We look for organizers who demonstrate readiness, professionalism, and commitment. All bids are reviewed and approved by the TCA board.

New affiliates are welcome, provided they meet expectations for hosting a high quality tournament.

6. Where does TCA funding go?

TCA funding comes from membership dues, donations, and occasional sponsorships. These funds support the core functions of the organization:

  • Maintaining the TCA website and tournament calendar
  • Promoting official events and sharing statewide updates
  • Covering fair play tools and voting systems
  • Supporting awards, scholarships, and recognitions
  • Providing stipends for delegates and national representatives
  • Organizing meetings, elections, and board operations
  • Helping regions coordinate and grow local chess

All funds are reinvested into the chess community in Texas. TCA board members serve as volunteers and are not paid for their service. However, TCA does contract a web administrator and a Facebook administrator, who receive a stipend for their work. TCA does not have any full-time or salaried staff.

7. Does TCA keep money from tournaments?

TCA does not keep money from tournaments run by outside organizers. Those organizers collect and manage all event revenue, including entry fees and expenses.

While we do not control how surplus funds are used, we expect organizers to operate in a way that benefits their local chess communities.

TCA does collect membership dues to fund core operations. When TCA runs an event directly, we retain the funds to support programs, services, and future events.

8. How can I get involved or support?

There are several ways to support the Texas Chess Association and help chess grow in your area:

  • Become a member. Membership helps fund core services like the calendar and website
  • Volunteer. TCA is run entirely by volunteers, and your help is always welcome
  • Donate. Contributions support scholarships, stipends, and long term projects
  • Stay informed. Attend meetings, vote, and be active in the statewide community

Your involvement makes a difference. Whether you are a parent, player, coach, or organizer, every contribution helps keep Texas chess strong and growing.