The 2012 Arthur Niederhoffer National Youth Championship will be held Saturday, July 28th and Sunday, July 29th, 2012 in Americas Best Value Inn & Suites, Lebanon, TN 37087. The Tournament runs Saturday through Sunday, offering 3 Divisions: 4th, 5th, and 6th, Graders (Age 9-13) three classes; Younger Youth (Age 14-17); and Older Youth (Age 18-21). The two day Youth Tournament will precede the main National Tournament which is scheduled especially for Kim Willis Youth Program and any other state youth checker players interested in play a National Youth Tournament. Most parents / chaperones and the 4th,5th,&,6th graders will arrive Friday, July 27th and play Saturday, July 28th and Sunday, July 29th. In addition to the 10,11, and 12 year olds (ages 9-13, three classes in this group), there will be a Younger Division (ages:14-17) and Older Youth Division (ages:18-21) (Youth Schedule posted in playing room). (Tentative Schedule)

All Youth National Divisions will Registration at 8:30-9:30am Saturday, July 28th following a business meeting & tournament rules, lunch, and start their 7 Rounds of Swiss or Round-Robin play as posted on the 2012 Nationals Youth Round Schedule: (available in playing room)

Generally the Younger Youth and Older Youth will play 4 rounds Saturday and the 3 rounds Sunday. Note: 7 Rounds of two-game rounds, scored by game depends on number of participants. (30 minutes per gm or 1 hrs per round) Rounds and pairing system will be tailored to number of entrants. Players may start sooner if pairings are ready, and may agree to break for a meal after two games.

Generally the 4th, 5th, and 6th, Graders (Age 9-13) three classes will play 4 rounds Saturday and 3 rounds Sunday. Note: 7 Rounds of two-game rounds, scored by game depends on number of participants. (30 minutes per gm or 1 hrs per round) or less depending on Director, Kim Willis. Game time limits, rounds, and pairing system will be tailored to number of entrants. There will be 3 classes by age in this group. Players may start sooner if pairings are ready, and may agree to break for a meal after two games.

Youth Tournament is over with closing ceremonies by Sunday afternoon.

Event is for ages 21 and under. Prize funds and Trophies for top finishers. All contestants awarded a diploma/achievement certificate and or ribbon medals. Valid ID will be required (e.g., birth certificate, passport, etc.) to verify age limit. See ACF National 3-Move Tournament ad for reservation info. An adult must be present in each reserved sleeping room. All youth playing in this event will play 3-Move and record their games. The 4,5,&,6 Graders may have an adult or referee assist with this, but should not interfere with the game. The 14-21 Youth Division will use clocks. A lower Youth Division player under age 18 may “play up” if they wish to try for a National Youth Title. An ACF membership is required for the top Division. Entry fees are $25/$15/$5 for the three divisions. Room rates are $42 per night for king or doubles but you should mention you are there for the Checker Tournament.

Kim Willis is Referee and ACF National Youth Director 573-392-9943 or email: vincomomma@yahoo.com