Chess has a rare hold on young players — anyone who has watched a scholastic tournament has seen a room full of kids thinking hard in near silence. The research backs it up, linking chess to gains in academic performance, planning, patience and sportsmanship. Illinois has a deep scholastic community, and the ICA works to support it: everyday programs, competition, and a path forward for the strongest juniors.
For players and families
- Scholastic ICA membership is $10 a year and takes $5 off entry to select state championship events. Join or renew →
- Scholastic players are welcome in adult and Open tournaments as well as scholastic events. See scholastic tournaments →
- Youth News carries results, player profiles and program updates from around the state.
Resources for parents, teachers and coaches
Guides from the ICA Youth Committee on getting kids started, the research on the value of chess, recommended teaching material, and Illinois coaches and tournament directors. Youth Chess Resources →
ICA talent programs
The ICA runs two connected programs for the state’s most promising young players.
Warren Junior Scholars Program
Founded more than 30 years ago by former ICA President Helen Warren, the Warren program gives the state’s highest-potential juniors intensive mentoring so they can compete nationally and internationally.
Rising Stars Program
Added in 2015, Rising Stars is a development pool for younger and lower-rated players who show early promise, preparing them to qualify for the Warren program.
State scholastic championships
The ICA confers Illinois state scholastic titles — among them the K-8 Individual and Team Championship, the All-Grade Championship, and the Girls State Championship. Each is run by an organizer chosen through the ICA’s yearly bid process; dates and locations vary from year to year.
Starting or growing a program
Teachers, parents and coaches starting a school or club chess program — or looking to connect with others doing the same across Illinois — can reach the ICA at contact@il-chess.org.