16th Annual Grand Match Gala 2025
Our limited edition Tee Shirts ARE NOT included in the Registration Cost:
We anticipate that T-shirts will be available for purchase for at least the first 100 participants who register. At the point in which no more T-shirts are available for purchase, the option to purchase a T-Shirt will be REMOVED. Order your limited edition T-shirt as soon as possible.
There will be a one hour-lunch break from 12 – 1pm.
(Really cool restaurants with many healthy & tasty food options are within walking distance of the USC Campus.)
Directions
University of Southern California
For immediate information read below or contact us via email at gmg@chesstutors.orgPlease read this entire page before registering. Knowing these details ensures you a rewarding tournament experience.
Please consider your schedule carefully prior to registering for this event because due to significant upfront administrative and facility costs, NO REFUNDS WILL BE GRANTED. However, we will happily provide you a credit toward our after school program, a private chess session (pending availability) or next years Gala should you miss the event for any reason.
Lastly, if for any reason our GMG is cancelled due to some unforeseen event of any kind (like it was in 2020 due to Covid) please REVIEW our Policy and Procedure Page for details on how we will aim to rectify the matter. Also, though we have had 5 consecutive successful Grand Matches at USC out of the 15 we have offered since 2004. Nevertheless, we have learned through our hosting this event at USC that multiple clearances are required (prior to GAME DAY) and our final permit clearance does not clear until as late as 7 days prior to the day of our event (despite us beginning the process up to 10 months prior to our event date)~. This process has been arduous to say the least and has required much faith and prayer on our part. With an aim toward full disclosure: We provide you with this information so you can count the cost (just as we have had to count the cost) and so that you might make a decision as to whether you want to join us in expecting that this event will take place just as planned, despite the uncertainties inherent in the permit process.
BY INVITATION ONLY!
Our Chess Tutors schools will exclusively compete to be recognized as our top Chess Tutors chess team. Additionally, individual 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards will be granted to winners in K-6th grade from our Chess Tutors program as well as individuals from other programs who compete and place. Students may compete within their grade section one grade level above or below. In recognizing that Effort Creates Aptitude, we will award each child’s best effort by making sure every student receives an encouragement, acknowledgement or an award of some kind. NOT-TO-MENTION, first and second place teams who make it to the Grand Match will split a CASH PRIZE. The 2 scholars from each team who scores the highest number of checkmates will earn their team a spot on the Grand Stage. They will be named team captains and they will split half of the winnings and the rest of the team will divide the winnings equally.
Additionally, during our 16th Annual GMG we plan to offer an open “chess tournament” section for our 6th Grade through adult Alumni. We will offer a CASH PRIZE for the 1st Place Winner. This undercard event will be exciting too! Our prerequisite for the Alumni Tournament participants is that they register and if they agree to come to act as tournament overseers for the duration of our K-6th Grade Main Event we will reimburse them 50% of their tuition. Their tourney will be held from 12-1 pm and lunch will be provided for all Alumni who agree and arrive by 8 am and remain until 4 pm. The FIRST PLACE CASH PRIZE will be granted at the end of the event and all reimbursements for our Alumni will be granted at that time as well.Regarding our Main Event: Based on our passed Gala’s we anticipate distributing over 250 awards!
NOTE: We plan to utilize the Round Robin by grade system to match students in individual play. Please, be mindful you may occasionally find yourself competing against someone from your own team.
Special thanks to USC for sponsoring/supporting our 15th Annual GMG!! Thanks to Dr. Conerly, Dr. Corliss & Paul Young, Our Alumni, the CBCSA staff & all our volunteers and sponsors. We expect to have the best GMG ever!
SPONSOR OUR 16th ANNUAL GMG:
Proof that Teamwork makes the Dreamwork!
TO POTENTIAL SPONSORS:
We are still looking to solidify sponsors for all that we do to make this event one to remember. All sponsors of this event will be featured here and in our tournament publicity and communications. Additionally, sponsors may be herald in all of our participating schools. If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact us at gmg@chesstutors.org.
Please carefully consider your schedule THOROUGHLY prior to registering. In the event you are subsequently unable to attend the 2025 GMG, we will plan to extend you credit towards a future Chess Tutor session, summer camp or next year’s GMG. HOWEVER, due to significant upfront administrative and facility costs, NO REFUNDS WILL BE GRANTED. We thank you for your understanding in this matter.
Mail-in Registration for Participants is NOT Available. (ONLINE REGISTRATION ONLY)
IMPORTANT NOTE: “Individuals with disabilities who need accommodations to attend this event may contact [Chess Tutors 323 251 7010, gmg@chesstutors.org]. It is requested that individuals requiring accommodations or auxiliary aids such as sign language interpreters and alternative format materials notify us at least 7 days prior to the event. Every reasonable effort will be made to provide reasonable accommodations in an effective and timely manner.”
