Chess Clubs in Blytheville, Arkansas. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Blytheville, AR and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Blytheville, Arkansas, and nearby Mississippi County communities have access to several organized chess opportunities in Northeast Arkansas. While the local chess scene remains modest, players can find regular meetups and competitive events within reasonable driving distance.
1. Blytheville Chess Club
Address: Blytheville Public Library, 411 W Main St, Blytheville, AR 72315
Description: Blytheville’s primary chess organization meets every Thursday evening from 5:30-8:00 PM. This casual group welcomes players of all skill levels and provides:
Tournament-style chess sets and clocks
Beginner instruction on first Thursdays
Occasional local tournaments
The club averages 6-10 players per meeting, with plans to expand programming.
2. Jonesboro Chess Society
Address: Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library, 315 W Oak Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401 (1-hour drive)
Description: Northeast Arkansas’ most active chess club meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening. The club offers:
Weekly rated games
Monthly tournaments
Regular visits from regional masters
This US Chess Federation affiliate typically draws 15-20 players per session.
3. Osceola Chess Group
Address: Osceola Public Library, 319 W Hale Ave, Osceola, AR 72370 (30-minute drive)
Description: This growing community chess group meets every other Saturday afternoon. The club focuses on:
Recreational play for families
Youth chess instruction
Senior chess activities
4. Paragould Chess Club
Address: Greene County Library, 120 N 12th St, Paragould, AR 72450 (45-minute drive)
Description: A casual chess gathering that meets weekly, featuring:
Open play with provided chess sets
Beginner instruction
Local tournament preparation
5. Arkansas State University Chess Club
Address: ASU Student Union, 101 N Caraway Rd, Jonesboro, AR 72401 (1-hour drive)
Description: Open to both students and community members, this collegiate chess program meets weekly during academic terms. Activities include:
Intercollegiate match preparation
Game analysis sessions
Campus chess tournaments
Tournament Play
Regional events include:
Northeast Arkansas Open (Jonesboro, March)
Mississippi County Chess Championship (October)
ASU Collegiate Invitational (November)
Youth Chess Opportunities
Several area schools offer programs:
Blytheville High School Chess Club
Osceola STEM Academy Chess Program
Jonesboro Public Schools Chess Initiative
Growing Chess in Northeast Arkansas
Local players can help expand chess by:
Volunteering as school chess mentors
Organizing library chess workshops
Developing senior chess programs
Conclusion
While Blytheville’s chess community remains small, quality playing opportunities exist at the public library and nearby Osceola and Jonesboro clubs. The Jonesboro Chess Society provides the strongest competitive environment in the region.
With continued development of youth programs and community engagement, Blytheville has potential to grow its chess presence. The combination of existing clubs and scholastic initiatives creates opportunities for players at all levels to enjoy the game while connecting with Northeast Arkansas’ chess community.