Policies and Guidelines:

1. Up to 16 teams with can participate on a first come serve basis. The team must be composed of 1 starting player and 1 substitute layer in each of these sections: U1000/ U1400/ U1800/ OPEN, for a total of 8 players. Each player will compete only in their registered section. No unrated players allowed. No play-ups allowed.

2. Each starting player can be substituted once in the round of 16 and once in the round of 8. Each section is only allowed one substitute player. If a player’s rating crosses the section threshold after a league game, they are eligible for a FREE substitution by default as it is mandatory to meet the rating requirements.

3. Substitutions can be made after the league starts but cannot be transferred from another club/ team. List of potential substitutes must be provided along with team submission. The team captain is responsible for registering the team. The organizer will coordinate with only the team captains and not individual players.

4. Team names can be based on local chess academies/ represent a city, area, neighborhood or town. Names will be reviewed and approved by our committee to avoid conflicts and overlap. Common examples: Langley Lions, Richmond Chess Champions, Vancity Chess etc.. Trademarked brands/ personalities are forbidden as team names.

5. We'll be using FIDE rules. For more information, Refer to FIDE Handbook.

6. A refund can be requested until the registration deadline. No refunds will be issued after that time. Note that a $10 processing fee applies to all refunds.

7. During live matches, the consumption of food or beverages is not permitted.

8. Photos and videos are allowed during the rounds, but we kindly request that you be discreet and respectful so as not to disturb other players.

9. Maintaining silence in the playing area is mandatory while games are in progress. Parents assisting their children or suggesting moves will lead to IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION OF THE PLAYER.

10. Any individual, including players, parents, or guardians, displaying frequent coughing, sneezing, or other visible symptoms of illness/ COVID-19 may be asked to withdraw from the tournament or leave the premises. Face masks are recommended for all attendees.

11. If you have experienced COVID-19 or its symptoms within the past 14 days, we kindly request that you voluntarily withdraw from the tournament for the health and safety of all participants.

12. All electronic devices capable of making noise, communicating, or playing chess must be turned off while playing and should not be placed on the table during live rounds.

13. By entering the venue premises, you consent to be photographed or recorded in videos. This footage may be used for internal references, social media marketing, or promotional purposes. If you prefer not to be photographed, recorded, or promoted, you can contact us via email, and we will accommodate your request.

14. In the event of a tie, prize money will be evenly split among all individuals tied for that position. Tiebreaks for non-cash prizes will be determined in the following order:
a. Average rating of the opponent
b. Buchholtz

15. The decision of the Tournament Director is final in the event of a conflict. The final standings announced after the tournament cannot be altered or changed.

16. By submitting this form and accepting the Terms and Conditions, you give your consent to be contacted by Fraser Valley Chess Academy via email or phone number for event updates, announcements, news, and marketing emails. If you wish to unsubscribe or no longer wish to be contacted, please feel free to inform us, and we will process your request accordingly.