Schein - Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project:
By Joan DuBois   
May 8, 2009
Official Press Release
May 8, 2009
Contact: Aviv Friedman

Mark Schein and Aviv Friedman, in cooperation with the US Chess Trust, are happy to announce their second annual scholastic recognition project.

The project is designed to help some of our younger champions continue to improve and dedicate themselves to chess while offsetting some of the financial expense. The project is designed to reward some top-rated youngsters, and help them become tomorrow’s best players and eventual Grandmasters. These youngsters will be serving as role models and inspiration to the entire scholastic community.

The program is generally designed for youngsters age 7-17. Occasionally, in cases of unusual excellence (considerably exceeding the program’s criterions), applications by players up to age 20 would be considered, but in a lower priority to applicants under age 17.

The scholarships for 2009 are:

The top recipient will get $5000; the second recipient will get $3000; and the third $2000.

Applicants must have been US citizens or permanent legal residents for a minimum of 18 months prior to the deadline date (June 20th for 2009). They must show dedication to chess, talent and accomplishment.  They also must exhibit a will to work hard and improve, as well as good sportsmanship and a positive attitude. Applicants must be active tournament players

The minimum ratings qualification formula is as follows:

Ages 7-14: age * 100 + 1000 for boys, and age * 100 + 800 for girls.
Ages 15-16: age * 100 + 900 for boys, and age * 100 + 700 for girls.
Age 17: 2500 for boys, 2300 for girls.


All applications should be in the form of an essay, describing the applicant’s chess accomplishments, and why he or she should receive a scholarship. They should be sent via e-mail to Aviv Friedman at [email protected] .