Hampton Roads Chess Association (“HRCA”) aims to promote the lifelong benefits of chess and foster a strong chess community in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. HRCA was officially founded as a 501c3 nonprofit organization in 2016 and serves approximately 1,000 residents annually through chess clubs and classes, camps, school programs, community programs, and outreach efforts.

Seven Cities School Chess Championship setup
2024 Seven Cities School Chess Championship featured over
200 youth players from Hampton Roads

Our Mission

The Hampton Roads Chess Association promotes the lifelong benefits of chess for all by supporting intellectual growth, personal development, sportsmanship, competitive play, and community-building across Southeast Virginia.

Our Vision

We envision a thriving community where people of all ages and abilities can grow through the game of chess, discover lasting friendships, and strengthen their minds and character.  Through accessible programs, mentorship, and competition, Hampton Roads Chess Association will inspire a culture of learning, integrity, and accomplishment. 

Our Values

C – Community

H – Healthy Competition

E – Educational Excellence

S – Sportsmanship 

S – Support, Access, and Inclusion 

HRCA is proud to be a prominent member of Hampton Roads and the chess community. We believe that collaborating with other community organizations is key to fulfilling our mission as a chess organization!

  • Partner in Education with Virginia Beach City Public Schools
  • Partner in Education with Norfolk Public Schools
  • Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation
  • City of Norfolk
  • Norfolk Public Libraries
  • Battleship Wisconsin/Nauticus
  • Virginia Zoo
  • Norfolk FestEvents
  • Asian Indians of Hampton Roads (AIHR)
  • Public schools, private schools, and homeschool co-ops across the Seven Cities
  • Virginia Chess Federation
  • Affiliate of the United States Chess Federation
  • Affiliate of Chess.com and ChessKid

Our Awards Include:

  • FIDE Gold School Award
  • Commendation from the Virginia House of Delegates
  • Chess Club of the Year award (US Chess Federation)
  • Scholastic Service Award (US Chess Federation)
  • Meritorious Service Awards (2) (US Chess Federation)
  • Silver Seal of Transparency with Candid.org

About the HRCA Coaching Staff:

  • Experienced and knowledgable
  • Background Checked
  • Members of US Chess Federation
  • Certified with the US Chess Federation
  • Rated Tournament Players
  • Three National Masters on staff
  • Taught over 1200 hours for HRCA in 2024-2025
  • Virtus-trained coaches available
  • Safe Sport trained
  • Many are also US Chess-Certified Tournament Directors

HRCA Tournament Directors:

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