♟️ About The Right Move Chess Foundation

The Right Move Chess Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit chess organization serving young players in New York City and the Greater Capital District of Albany, New York. Founded in 1990, the organization uses chess as an educational tool to help young people develop concentration, discipline, decision-making skills, and confidence through regular competitive play. The foundation is particularly known for its “Free Chess for Youth” programme. It organizes a continuing series of free tournaments during the school year, removing entry-fee barriers that can prevent young players from gaining regular tournament experience. Events welcome players across multiple skill and rating levels, while selected sections also allow adult participation. Hector Rodriguez serves as President of The Right Move and is a principal contact for its New York City tournament programme. The organization works in partnership with public institutions and community venues to provide accessible chess opportunities throughout New York.

🏆 Tournaments & Activities

The Right Move organizes frequent US Chess-rated tournaments throughout the school year. Its New York City programme regularly holds events at Riverbank State Park, Roberto Clemente State Park, and other community venues. The tournaments generally feature multiple sections based on age, grade, and US Chess rating. These include sections for beginners and developing scholastic players as well as stronger rated competitors. Consequently, young players can progress through increasingly competitive groups as their playing strength develops. Most events use a rapid time control and four-round Swiss-system format. Although tournament entry is normally free, participants competing in rated sections must maintain an appropriate US Chess membership. The organization also recognizes achievement with trophies, medals, and team awards. In addition to individual results, school and club teams can compete for recognition based on the combined performances of their players.

📜 History & Achievements

The Right Move has provided free competitive chess opportunities for young players since 1990. Over more than three decades, its tournament programme has grown into a long-running series of rated scholastic events in New York. Its New York City tournament series has passed 370 individual events, demonstrating exceptional continuity. Regular tournaments at Riverbank State Park and Roberto Clemente State Park provide young players with repeated opportunities to gain tournament experience and develop official US Chess ratings. A central feature of the organization is its educational mission. The Right Move promotes chess mastery together with parental and educational involvement, viewing competitive chess as part of broader youth development rather than simply as a sporting activity. The foundation continues to cooperate with the New York State Department of Parks and local venues to make organized chess accessible to families throughout the city. Its recurring free events have created a sustainable pathway from introductory scholastic chess to regular rated competition.