Chess Clubs in Midland, Texas. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Midland, TX: A Thriving Scene for Chess Enthusiasts
Midland, Texas, known for its role in the oil industry, also has a surprisingly rich and growing chess scene. With a variety of chess clubs and groups in the area, players of all skill levels can find a place to hone their skills, compete, and enjoy the game. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player seeking more competitive play, Midland has something for everyone. Below are some of the key chess clubs and locations where chess enthusiasts meet in Midland.
1. Midland Chess Club
Address: Midland Centennial Library, 2503 W Loop 250 N, Midland, TX 79705
The Midland Chess Club is a vibrant and active group that meets weekly at the Midland Centennial Library. The club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced players. Sessions include casual games, instruction for new players, and regular tournaments to challenge the more advanced. The club’s goal is to promote chess in the community while fostering a friendly and inclusive environment.
Meeting Time: Every Saturday, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
2. Midland College Chess Club
Address: Midland College, 3600 N Garfield St, Midland, TX 79705
Midland College is home to a passionate chess club that primarily serves its student body, but the club also welcomes local chess enthusiasts from the wider community. The Midland College Chess Club focuses on fostering analytical skills and strategic thinking among its members. In addition to regular games, the club hosts occasional lectures and chess workshops for those interested in deepening their understanding of the game. This is a great spot for college students and young adults looking to take their chess skills to the next level.
Meeting Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (during the academic year).
3. West Texas Chess Academy
Address: 1909 W Wall St, Midland, TX 79701
West Texas Chess Academy is a chess school that provides structured lessons for chess players of all ages and skill levels. The academy focuses on coaching younger players, helping to instill a passion for chess while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition to classes, West Texas Chess Academy also hosts youth chess tournaments and workshops throughout the year. Parents looking to introduce their children to chess or those interested in receiving personalized instruction will find this an excellent resource.
Meeting Time: Monday through Friday, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
4. First Baptist Church Chess Group
Address: 2104 W Louisiana Ave, Midland, TX 79701
The First Baptist Church Chess Group meets in a relaxed, social environment, welcoming people of all ages and skill levels. This informal group gathers weekly for chess games and socializing. Although the group is primarily focused on friendly, casual games, they occasionally organize small in-house tournaments for fun and competition. This is a great place for those who enjoy the social aspect of chess and want to meet others who share their interest in the game.
Meeting Time: Wednesdays, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
5. Midland-Odessa Chess Meetups
Address: Varies (meetings typically held in local coffee shops or libraries)
The Midland-Odessa Chess Meetups are informal gatherings of chess players from across the Permian Basin area. These meetups provide a flexible, low-pressure environment for players to enjoy casual games and discuss chess strategy. Meetings are held at various locations in Midland and Odessa, including coffee shops like the Brew St. Café or community centers, depending on availability and group size. To find out where the next meeting is, members often coordinate through social media platforms or group chats.
Meeting Time: Typically on weekends, with dates and times announced in advance.
6. Permian Basin Chess Tournaments
Address: Midland Convention Center, 105 N Main St, Midland, TX 79701
For those seeking competitive chess, the Permian Basin Chess Tournaments are an annual series of events that attract players from all over West Texas. These tournaments are often held at the Midland Convention Center and cater to a wide range of skill levels, from amateur to expert. Participants can compete in different categories, including youth, adult, and open sections. These events are great for players looking to test their skills, earn ratings, or simply enjoy a day of intense competition with other chess enthusiasts.
Meeting Time: Tournaments are usually held quarterly. Check local listings for exact dates.
Chess Events and Tournaments in Midland
In addition to the regular club meetings, Midland often hosts several noteworthy chess events throughout the year, including:
- Midland City Chess Championship: This annual event brings together the best players from the Midland chess community to compete for the city championship title.
- West Texas Open Chess Tournament: Open to players from across the region, this tournament is held at the Midland Convention Center and offers cash prizes, trophies, and rating points.
These events are fantastic opportunities for players to meet others who share their love for chess, compete in a structured environment, and experience the thrill of tournament play.
Conclusion
Midland, TX, may be better known for its oil fields, but its chess community is thriving. Whether you are a casual player, a serious competitor, or someone just starting to learn the game, Midland’s chess clubs and events offer plenty of opportunities to play, improve, and enjoy this timeless game. If you’re in the area and looking to get involved, check out one of the local clubs or join a meetup group—you’ll be sure to find a welcoming chess community.