The classical strategy board game of chess has many enthusiasts in The Villages. A core group of Village chess players meet regularly to match wits over the board. These are informal, friendly games among Village players with a wide range of playing skills. There are experienced, seasoned players and there are players who are just beginning to learn the game or have not played for many years. There are also players who are members of the United States Chess Federation (USCF) and have a formal rating through this organization, ranging from Class D players to experts. A registered USCF affiliate has been formed and officially named The Villages Chess Club, and organizes USCF-rated tournaments in The Villages. 

Regardless of skill level, all Village players are welcomed at all the different venues. 

Chess is played at various times and in various recreation centers throughout The Villages:
Monday 9 a.m. / Paradise Recreation Center

Monday 1 p.m. / Rohan Recreation Center

Tuesday 8:00 a.m. / Miona Recreation Center

Wednesday 9 a.m. / Bacall Recreation Center

2nd & 4th Wednesday 5:30 p.m. / Brandenberg Recreation Center

Thursday 12 p.m. / Captiva Recreation Center
Fridays, 9 a.m. / Paradise Recreation Center 

Friday 12 p.m. / Everglades Recreation Center

In addition, there is a Chess for Beginners /Thursday 9 a.m. / Pimlico Recreation Center

Guest passes are available for non-Villager chess players who would like to attend one of our chess sessions. The Villages Recreation Department policy restricts the issuing of guest passes to residents of the adjoining counties of Sumter, Lake, or Marion. They also require the following information for the guest pass: first & last names; address; date-of-birth; and presenting a photo ID at time of visit. You can request a guest pass by supplying the needed information in the CONTACT section or emailing it to TheVillagesChessClub@outlook.com