At Chess Power, we have a Player Pathway for becoming a great junior chess player!
For an explanation of ratings and how these work, read our Ratings Explained article
Novice
Rating Level : 0 - 400 points
At this level it is all about developing a passion for chess and a desire to take a step up to the next level of the pyramid. As a player it is critical you receive structured coaching at this level so good habits are established.
We recommend you compete actively in Interschool events.
At all levels players need to find a balance between structured coaching/study and competitive play. Early on the focus is on play, shifting more to coaching and study as you move up the pyramid. Critically important is to have a social network, peer-group or rivals with whom you can compete and improve together such as a Chess Club at school.
Beginner
Rating Level : 400 - 800 points
At this level, we recommend you actively compete in the MC Cup qualifier tournaments. The MC Cup tournament is held on the last Sunday of every month. Running from 1pm – 5pm in age-groups. There are lots of trophy prizes, lucky prizes and general coaching to get kids used to tournament play and encourage those with an interest.
If you win an MC Cup, you get to compete in the MC Cup Invitational Finals.
Chess Power Elite™ (Age x 100)
Rating Level : 800 – 1200 points
At this level players are learning to record games and slow down. Games lasting one-hour are common and coaching becomes player-specific. Students should be starting to buy chess books and doing some self-guided practice and study. Most Elite players will be highly competitive in the MC Cup Elite Tournaments
To qualify for Chess Power Elite a player must either:
a) Have a rating of Age x 100 e.g. If you are 10 years old, your rating must be 1000 points or higher
b) Score 5 wins in an Interschool or MC Cup tournament
Chess Power Junior Master™
Rating Level : 1200 – 1600
Players who reach this level are awarded the title of Junior Master™. We recommend a Junior Master joins an Adult Chess Club, starts playing Open Weekend Tournaments and commits to dedicated self-study. Most will have a private coach and mentor with whom they work on a regular basis. NZCF Rated Tournaments such as the NZ Junior Championships and MC Cup Elite™ tournaments are priorities.
View our Upcoming Tournaments page to see what tournaments are coming up.
