Charlottesville Chess Club

Code of Conduct

The Charlottesville Chess Club is committed to fostering a positive and respectful environment within the chess community. This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behavior of all individuals attending the Charlottesville Chess Club and its events, including players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators.

1. Sportsmanship and Fair Play: Participants shall exhibit good sportsmanship, fair play, and respect for opponents, organizers, and officials. Unsportsmanlike conduct, cheating, or any attempt to gain an unfair advantage will not be tolerated. 

2. Respect for Diversity: All individuals are expected to treat each other with dignity and respect, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or ability. Discrimination, harassment, or any form of disrespectful behavior is strictly prohibited. 

3. Professionalism: Players, coaches, and officials must maintain a high standard of professionalism. This includes adhering to tournament rules, following schedules, and cooperating with organizers and fellow participants. 

4. Integrity and Ethics: Act with integrity and adhere to ethical standards. Any form of cheating, including but not limited to using external assistance or engaging in collusion, is strictly forbidden. 

5. Respect for the Chess Environment: All participants are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the chess environment. This includes avoiding distractions, maintaining a quiet playing atmosphere, and respecting the rights of fellow participants to focus on their games. 

6. Compliance with Laws and Regulations: Participants must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and USCF tournament rules. Any violation may result in disciplinary action.

8. Cooperation with Officials: Participants shall cooperate fully with tournament officials, organizers, and other staff members. Disputes or disagreements should be addressed through proper channels, following the established procedures. 

9. Consequences for Violations: Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary actions, including warnings, point deductions, expulsion from the tournament, or reporting to relevant authorities if necessary. 

10. Continuous Improvement: The Charlottesville Chess Club is committed to continuous improvement in fostering a positive and safe chess environment. Feedback from participants is valued and will be used to enhance future events. By participating in CCC-sanctioned events, individuals agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. The CCC reserves the right to amend this code as needed to ensure its effectiveness in maintaining a safe, respectful, and enjoyable chess experience for all.

Tournament Policy

Anti-Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy: The Charlottesville Chess Club is committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment for all participants. Harassment, discrimination, or any form of disrespectful behavior based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or ability will not be tolerated. The CCC is dedicated to promptly addressing and taking appropriate action against any violation of this policy to ensure a safe and welcoming space for everyone involved in its sanctioned events.

Reporting and Procedures

How do I report misconduct?

For those who would like to report an incident online

anonymously, you can do so via the Charlottesville Chess Club website at https://charlottesvillechessclub.org/

You can also do so via email chessclub.charlottesville@gmail.com or by calling 1 (904) 635-9824

Who reads my report?

The incoming incidents are monitored by the CCC board members, including Tripp Southerland who is a certified Women in Chess Advocate (https://www.womeninchess.com), trained to deal with misconduct surrounding various chess environments.  

What happens after I report?

Upon receiving an incident report, the CCC board will promptly assess the situation and take initial actions to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals involved. This may include separating the parties, providing support, and collecting information about the incident.

Consequences of Misconduct

The Consequences of Misconduct section in a US Chess SafePlay Policy outlines the range of disciplinary actions that may be taken in response to substantiated instances of misconduct. These consequences may include verbal warnings, written warnings, point deductions, disqualification from the tournament, and, in severe cases, reporting to relevant authorities. The section emphasizes the importance of proportionality and fairness in assigning consequences, considering the nature and severity of the misconduct. By clearly articulating the potential repercussions, this section aims to deter inappropriate behavior, promote accountability, and contribute to the creation of a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment within the chess tournament.

https://new.uschess.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/us-chess-safe-play-guidelines.pdf