Question of the Day: Have You Always Wanted to Be a TD?

 

Have you wondered what the crazy letters "TD" stands for?  (Sorry, in this context, I don't mean touchdown!)

Have you laid awake at night pondering how those people who resolve disputes and keep things moving along at chess tournaments got their clearly high paying and powerful jobs?

Well, I'm sure each and every TD has their own answer to that question but it's never too late to get started in this exciting and rewarding "career" (although if you actually begin to think of it as a vocation instead of a hobby, you probably need some career advice).

Nonetheless, the Illinois Chess Association is frequently contacted by organizers and schools looking for tournament directors and related volunteers. Furthermore, we stand dedicated to advancing the knowledge of tournament protocols for all in the chess community.

Until you've actually responded to the wave of hands at a tournament, you just don't know what you're missing!

There is an immediate need for people resources for an event May 20, but other opportunities are always coming along.

Familiarity with basic chess knowledge (legal moves, checkmate, en passant) and tournament conditions are expected but pretty much everything else can be taught from the ground up. We can mentor you towards climbing the US Chess hierarchy of chess TDship -- from Club, to Local, to Senior and up... or we can just provide a pleasant way to make a difference at various chess events occuring in Illinois.

While many are strictly volunteer positions, there are some postings which do include modest compensation.

Drop a note to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we can talk about your interest in helping out with tournaments.