Chess Clubs in Storrs, Connecticut. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Storrs, CT and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Storrs and the surrounding Quiet Corner region of Connecticut have access to several clubs that accommodate players of all skill levels. From casual recreational play to competitive tournament preparation, these organizations provide welcoming environments for chess enthusiasts.
1. UConn Chess Club
Location: Student Union Room 219 – 2110 Hillside Road, Storrs, CT 06269
Description: The official University of Connecticut chess club meets weekly during academic semesters. While primarily serving students, the club welcomes community members to special events and tournaments. The group hosts regular blitz competitions, simultaneous exhibitions, and participates in collegiate chess leagues.
2. Mansfield Chess Society
Location: Mansfield Public Library – 54 Warrenville Road, Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Description: Just 5 minutes from campus, this community chess club meets bi-weekly for casual play. The Mansfield Chess Society emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere for beginners while offering challenging games for experienced players. Monthly strategy workshops analyze classic games and openings.
3. Willimantic Chess Club
Location: Willimantic Public Library – 905 Main Street, Willimantic, CT 06226
Description: Approximately 15 minutes from Storrs, this active club meets weekly with separate sessions for casual play and serious competition. The Willimantic Chess Club maintains an extensive chess library and frequently hosts visiting masters for lectures and exhibitions.
4. Coventry Chess Collective
Location: Booth & Dimock Memorial Library – 1134 Main Street, Coventry, CT 06238
Description: Located 20 minutes from Storrs, this club focuses on both recreational enjoyment and skill development. The Coventry Chess Collective organizes regular rated tournaments and maintains a mentoring program pairing experienced players with newcomers.
5. Tolland Chess Club
Location: Tolland Public Library – 21 Tolland Green, Tolland, CT 06084
Description: About 20 minutes from Storrs, this established club offers weekly meetings with structured game analysis sessions. The Tolland Chess Club participates in inter-club matches across Connecticut and hosts an annual open tournament.
6. Ashford Chess Group
Location: Ashford Town Hall – 5 Town Hall Road, Ashford, CT 06278
Description: Approximately 25 minutes from Storrs, this smaller club provides an intimate setting for chess enthusiasts. The Ashford Chess Group meets bi-weekly and specializes in historical chess variants alongside standard play.
Regional Tournament Opportunities:
The Eastern Connecticut Chess Alliance, comprising several area clubs, hosts quarterly tournaments rotating between Storrs, Willimantic, and Coventry locations. These events typically feature multiple sections based on player ratings.
Club Features:
Collegiate and community chess connections
Regular rated tournament opportunities
Scholastic outreach programs
Chess libraries and study materials
Mentoring programs for developing players
Inter-club team competitions
Most clubs provide equipment, though serious competitors may want to bring their own clocks. The UConn club maintains the most extensive tournament resources, while community clubs offer more flexible scheduling. Players should verify meeting times as some clubs adjust schedules during summer months and academic breaks. The Storrs area provides particularly strong opportunities for students and junior players through university-affiliated programs.
