FOREST CITY – The Waldorf College Chess Club is now a sanctioned affiliate of the United States Chess Federation (USCF).
Dr. Cynthia Ryder, Co-Faculty Advisor of the chess club at Waldorf College, believes becoming an affiliate of the USCF would not only benefit the club, but also Waldorf College. “Having sanctioned affinity groups can greatly help with student recruitment at Waldorf, especially with prospects who are not involved in the typical activities such as athletics or fine arts,” she said.
As an affiliate, Waldorf College’s name is listed on the USCF website where it can be seen by high school students who are involved in USCF tournaments or even ranked nationally. USCF members also have the opportunity to participate in tournaments nationwide, and online. Dr. Ryder and her son, Charles Ryder, competed in the 2014 Rochester Grand Winter Open hosted by Mayo Clinic Chess Club in Rochester, MN. Over 70 chess players from five countries attended the tournament.
“Being a sanctioned club gives us the opportunity to play at a variety of different tournaments against skilled players.” Dr. Ryder said. For members who can’t travel to nationwide tournaments, online USCF tournaments are available as well.
Future initiatives of Dr. Ryder and the Waldorf College Chess club include hosting a weekend chess camp for middle and high school students as well as introducing club membership to Waldorf Online students.
Joining the Waldorf College Chess Club is free to Waldorf students and faculty. The club meets every Thursday from 5-7 p.m. in the Mitchell Room located in the Campus Information Center and Tuesdays from 12-1 p.m. in the campus cafeteria.
