Chess Clubs in Chubbuck, Idaho. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Chubbuck, ID and Surrounding Areas
Chubbuck and the greater Pocatello region offer several opportunities for chess enthusiasts to play, learn, and compete. This guide covers organized clubs, casual meetups, and tournament options available to residents of Chubbuck and nearby communities in southeastern Idaho.
1. Portneuf Valley Chess Club
Location: Marshall Public Library – 113 S Garfield Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204 (5 minutes from Chubbuck)
Description: The most active chess club in the region meets weekly at the Pocatello library. This welcoming group accommodates all skill levels, from beginners to tournament players. The club maintains a collection of chess sets and clocks, and frequently hosts casual tournaments and simultaneous exhibitions. Several experienced players offer free lessons for newcomers.
2. Idaho State University Chess Club
Location: ISU Campus – 921 S 8th Ave, Pocatello, ID 83209 (10 minutes from Chubbuck)
Description: Open to both students and community members, the ISU Chess Club meets regularly during academic semesters. The group organizes blitz tournaments, strategy workshops, and intercollegiate matches. The club welcomes competitive and casual players alike, with many members participating in regional tournaments.
3. Chubbuck Community Chess
Location: Chubbuck City Hall – 5160 Yellowstone Ave, Chubbuck, ID 83202
Description: This informal group meets biweekly at various Chubbuck locations, primarily at City Hall during winter months and in local parks during summer. The emphasis is on casual, social chess with players of all ages welcome. The group occasionally organizes small tournaments for members.
4. Bannock County Scholastic Chess
Location: Various Pocatello and Chubbuck schools
Description: Several area schools participate in competitive scholastic chess through this program. Elementary through high school students can join school teams that compete in local tournaments. The program includes after-school clubs and an annual championship event held at Idaho State University.
5. Southeast Idaho Chess League
Location: Rotates between Pocatello, Chubbuck, and Idaho Falls venues
Description: This competitive league features team matches between clubs from across southeastern Idaho. Players can join existing teams or form new ones representing their community or workplace. The league runs from October through April with monthly matches.
Tournament Opportunities
Chubbuck-area players have access to:
Portneuf Valley Open (annual rated tournament in Pocatello)
ISU Collegiate Chess Championship
Southeast Idaho Scholastic Championships
Monthly Quick Chess Tournaments at Marshall Public Library
Idaho State Championship (rotates between Pocatello and other cities)
Youth Chess Development
Several programs serve young players:
Chubbuck Elementary Chess Clubs (grades 3-6)
Pocatello High School Chess Team
Summer Chess Camps hosted at ISU
Private coaching available through local instructors
Starting Your Own Chess Group
Chubbuck residents interested in expanding chess opportunities can:
Organize neighborhood chess meetups
Establish school or church-based chess programs
Develop specialized groups (seniors, homeschoolers, etc.)
Partner with local businesses for playing venues
Online Chess Resources
For supplemental play and learning:
Southeast Idaho Chess Network (Facebook group)
Idaho Chess Association online forums
Lichess.org local clubs
Virtual lessons from Idaho chess coaches
Benefits of Local Chess Participation
Cognitive development and problem-solving skills
Social connections across age groups
Tournament competition for serious players
Affordable recreational activity for families
Final Thoughts
Chubbuck offers convenient access to Pocatello’s vibrant chess scene while developing its own local playing opportunities. From casual games at City Hall to competitive tournaments at ISU, chess enthusiasts of all levels will find suitable options. The area’s scholastic programs provide excellent development opportunities for young players.
For current schedules and tournament information, contact Marshall Public Library or visit the Idaho Chess Association website. Most clubs welcome new players without prior notice, though contacting organizers in advance is recommended for first-time tournament participants.
