Chess Clubs in Anthem, Arizona. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Anthem, AZ and Surrounding Communities
Anthem and its neighboring areas in northern Phoenix offer several organized opportunities for chess enthusiasts to play and improve their game. This guide details local chess clubs, casual meetups, and playing options for players of all skill levels in the Anthem area.
1. Anthem Chess Club
Address: Anthem Community Center – 41130 N Freedom Way, Anthem, AZ 85086
Description: The Anthem Chess Club meets weekly at the community center, providing a welcoming environment for players of all ages and abilities. The group maintains a balance between casual play and competitive matches, with experienced players often offering guidance to beginners. The club provides tournament-quality sets and clocks, and occasionally hosts rated games and small tournaments. Check the community center calendar for current meeting schedules.
2. North Valley Chess Club
Address: Desert Hills Library – 18602 N 35th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85053 (15 minutes from Anthem)
Description: This active club meets twice weekly at the Desert Hills Library, attracting players from throughout the north valley. The group welcomes serious competitors and recreational players alike, with multiple games occurring simultaneously during meetings. The club organizes occasional lectures on strategy and tactics, and maintains a lending library of chess books for members.
3. Cave Creek Chess Enthusiasts
Address: Cave Creek Town Hall – 37622 N Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (25 minutes from Anthem)
Description: While not a formal club, this group of dedicated players meets regularly at the town hall community room. The gathering has a relaxed, social atmosphere while still maintaining good competitive play. Players range from strong club players to beginners, with most members happy to analyze games and discuss strategy after playing.
4. New River Casual Chess
Address: New River Library – 14102 N 103rd Ave, Sun City, AZ 85351 (20 minutes from Anthem)
Description: The New River area hosts informal chess gatherings at the local library, typically on weekend afternoons. These sessions are ideal for families and casual players looking for low-pressure games. The library provides basic chess sets, and players often bring chess clocks for timed games.
5. Tournament and Competitive Play Options
Serious players in Anthem have access to several competitive opportunities:
Arizona State Chess Championship (rotates locations annually)
North Valley Open hosted at Desert Hills Library
Senior Chess Tournaments at various retirement communities
Online tournaments through the Arizona Chess Federation
Youth Chess Opportunities
Several Anthem-area schools participate in competitive scholastic chess:
Anthem Preparatory Academy chess team competes in state tournaments
Boulder Creek High School hosts interscholastic matches
Desert Mountain Elementary offers after-school chess program
Getting Started
New players can visit the Anthem Chess Club during their regular meeting times – no advance registration required. Most area clubs charge minimal fees (typically $5-10 per meeting) to cover facility costs. The Anthem Community Center occasionally offers beginner chess classes through their recreation program.
Future Developments
With Anthem’s growing population, there is increasing interest in expanding chess opportunities. Potential developments include:
Additional weekly meeting times at the community center
A rated tournament circuit for north valley players
Expanded youth chess programs in local schools
Final Thoughts
Anthem ofers a welcoming chess community with options ranging from casual play at the community center to more competitive opportunities at neighboring clubs. The area’s mix of retired and working adults, along with growing youth participation, creates a vibrant chess environment. Players looking to get involved should check with the Anthem Community Center for the most current chess club schedule and any special events.
