Chess Clubs in Godfrey, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Godfrey, IL and Surrounding Communities
Chess enthusiasts in Godfrey and nearby areas will find several options for organized play, from casual gatherings to competitive tournaments. This guide provides detailed information about local chess opportunities, including locations, meeting schedules, and club descriptions.
Godfrey Area Chess Clubs
1. Godfrey Chess Club
Location: Hayner Public Library – 326 Belle St, Alton, IL 62002 (5 miles from Godfrey)
Description: The primary chess club serving the Godfrey area meets weekly at the Hayner Library in nearby Alton. This welcoming group accommodates players of all skill levels, from absolute beginners to experienced competitors. The club provides chess sets and clocks, with experienced players often offering guidance to newcomers. Monthly themed tournaments and strategy sessions complement regular play nights.
2. Lewis and Clark Community College Chess Society
Location: Lewis and Clark CC – 5800 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey, IL 62035
Description: This student-run organization welcomes both college students and community members. The group meets biweekly during academic semesters, focusing on skill development through structured lessons and competitive play. The society hosts an annual open tournament that attracts players from across the Riverbend region.
Nearby Chess Clubs
3. Alton Chess Enthusiasts
Location: Alton Area YMCA – 500 E 6th St, Alton, IL 62002 (6 miles from Godfrey)
Description: This active group meets twice monthly for casual games and instruction. The Alton Chess Enthusiasts organize quarterly rated tournaments and maintain a lending library of chess resources for members. The YMCA location provides a comfortable setting with ample parking.
4. Edwardsville Chess Club
Location: Edwardsville Public Library – 112 S Kansas St, Edwardsville, IL 62025 (25 miles northeast of Godfrey)
Description: One of the most established clubs in Madison County, this group offers weekly meetings with a mix of casual play and competitive events. The club attracts players from across the metro-east area and frequently hosts guest instructors for special workshops.
5. Jerseyville Chess Group
Location: Jerseyville Public Library – 200 W Pearl St, Jerseyville, IL 62052 (25 miles northwest of Godfrey)
Description: A smaller, community-focused club that meets monthly for casual play. The Jerseyville Chess Group maintains a welcoming atmosphere for players looking to improve their game through friendly competition.
Youth Chess Opportunities
6. Godfrey Youth Chess Initiative
Location: Godfrey Park District – 6812 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey, IL 62035
Description: This after-school program introduces chess to students in grades 3-8 through structured lessons and supervised play. The initiative runs during the school year and prepares participants for regional scholastic tournaments.
7. Riverbend Scholastic Chess League
Location: Various schools throughout Madison and Jersey Counties
Description: This traveling program brings chess instruction to multiple schools in the region, with periodic inter-school competitions. The program focuses on developing critical thinking skills through chess.
Tournament Opportunities
The Godfrey area hosts several chess events annually:
Riverbend Chess Open (March) – Held at Lewis and Clark Community College
Godfrey Summer Classic (July) – Hosted by the Godfrey Chess Club
Madison County Scholastic Championship (January) – Youth-focused competition
Benefits of Local Chess Clubs
Participating in area chess clubs provides:
Regular opportunities for competitive play
Access to experienced players for skill development
Structured learning through workshops and lectures
Social interaction with fellow chess enthusiasts
Development of strategic thinking abilities
Getting Started
Most clubs welcome new players at any skill level. Beginners should consider:
Attending the Godfrey Chess Club for introductory play
Checking the Hayner Library for beginner chess books
Exploring online resources to learn basic strategies
Participating in casual play before entering tournaments
For current schedules and event information, contact the individual clubs or visit the Godfrey Park District website. Whether you’re learning the game or seeking serious competition, Godfrey’s chess community offers opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels.
