Texas Chess Association Inc.

The Texas Chess Association Inc. (TCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting chess players throughout Texas. Founded in 1935, TCA has served the Texas chess community for over 80 years, offering a wide range of activities including tournaments, publications, and chess club development. It is recognized as the designated state affiliate of the United States Chess Federation (US Chess) and is classified as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

History

The TCA was established by John Charles Thompson, a prominent chess player from Dallas. The organization's founding coincided with the first annual Southwest Open tournament, which has since become a significant event in Texas chess. Thompson himself was a formidable competitor, winning the Southwest Open a total of seven times and claiming the title of Texas State Champion on three occasions in the late 1940s. His contributions to the organization and the sport have been pivotal, and he continued to influence Texas chess until his passing in 1999.

Activities and Services

TCA organizes several major chess tournaments, including:

• Texas State Championship
• Southwest Open
• Texas Scholastic Championship
• Texas Open

These events are not only prestigious but also provide competitive opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels.

In addition to tournaments, TCA produces a quarterly magazine titled Texas Knights, which is regarded as one of the leading chess publications in the United States. This magazine covers local chess events, player accomplishments, and educational articles aimed at improving players' skills and knowledge of the game.

Membership and Community Engagement

The Texas Chess Association encourages membership which provides benefits such as access to tournaments, publications, and special events. Members can participate in workshops and training sessions aimed at enhancing their chess abilities. The TCA also promotes chess in local schools and communities, striving to increase interest and participation in the game across Texas.

Regions and Organizational Structure

TCA is organized into several regions to facilitate local chess activity and development:

• Region I (Panhandle)
• Region II (North Central)
• Region III (Northeast)
• Region IV (West)
• Region V (Southeast)
• Region VI (South Central)
• Region VII (Gulf/Valley)

Each region has its own local clubs and tournaments, which help to foster a vibrant chess culture statewide.

Governance

The Texas Chess Association is governed by a board of directors elected from its membership base. The board is responsible for setting policies, organizing events, and ensuring the growth and sustainability of chess in Texas.

Conclusion

The Texas Chess Association Inc. continues to play a crucial role in the development of chess in Texas, providing resources, organizing events, and fostering a community that supports players of all levels. Through its extensive history and ongoing initiatives, TCA remains a cornerstone of the chess landscape in Texas.