Everyone is Invited!
These events are open to all students (grades K-12) enrolled in schools in the United States or its territories, and to U.S. citizens attending schools abroad. Home-taught students are eligible, but only if they meet age requirements.

U.S. citizens are eligible to play in the 2004 National Youth Action Chess Championships, regardless of whether or not they reside in the U.S.A. Non-U.S. citizens are eligible to play in the 2004 National Youth Action Chess Championships only if they are officially enrolled in a U.S. school.

USCF Membership is Required
U.S. Chess Federation membership is required for all players at the 2004 National Youth Action Chess Championships. Membership offers many benefits, including discounts on chess books and equipment, plus the chance to earn a national chess rating.

If you currently receive Chess Life in the mail, you are already a member in good standing until the expiration date listed on the label. You may also join or renew your USCF membership by checking the appropriate box on the entry form. Please include your membership dues with your entry fee. Note: Junior Tournament players must upgrade to full USCF memberships.

No One is Eliminated
All players play all rounds, regardless of wins or losses. These events are paired as "Individual Modified Swisses," so players from the same school generally don't have to worry about traveling just to play their friends. Each participant plays nine games, unless a bye is given or requested. The overall winner(s) of each championship section will earn the official national title in that category. Tied players are considered to be co-champions, although trophy awards will be determined by tiebreak formula. All team members must be enrolled as full-time students in the same school. Club teams are allowed in the National Youth Action.

What to Bring
Bring writing implements and chess clocks if you have them

Boards, sets and score sheets are provided for the tournament games, but you should bring your own practice sets.

Individual Prizes
Trophies for at least the top 25 players in each section and additional class trophies in each section. Players may win only one trophy per event for individual performance. Place trophies take precedence over all other trophy awards.

Team Play Doubles the Fun!
Schools or clubs may also compete as teams at the 2004 National Youth Action Chess Championship. In each section, a team's total score is calculated by adding the points of its four top-scoring players. There is no limit to the number of entries from each school or club, but schools must have at least three players in the same section to be eligible for team prizes. USCF affiliation, although not required, is recommended.

Team Prizes
Trophies to top 25 teams, plus five plaques for each of the top 15 teams in each section.

Time Control - Game/30
30 minutes per player to complete the game.