Learning Resources
Whether you're picking up the game for the first time or working on your tournament prep, these resources are handpicked by our club members and coaches to help you improve at every stage.
Getting Started
Lichess is the free online chess platform we use for club play between Monday meetings. This step-by-step guide walks you through creating an account and joining our club team — takes about five minutes.
All timed games use a chess clock. This short video covers the basics — how to start it, how to press it after your move, and the key rules around time. Essential viewing before your first competitive game.
Algebraic notation is the universal language of chess. Recording your games allows you to review and learn from them later — one of the most effective habits any improving player can build.
Chess Mini Vision is a free, interactive trainer based on the acclaimed 400 Points in 400 Days method, designed to sharpen your board visualization and knight movement skills through focused daily exercises. If you want to see the board more clearly and think several moves ahead with confidence, just a few minutes a day on these drills can make a real difference in your game.
WintrChess is a completely free game analysis tool that uses the powerful Stockfish engine to break down your chess games move by move, highlighting inaccuracies, mistakes, and blunders while showing your overall accuracy score. Just paste in a PGN or connect your Chess.com or Lichess account, and you'll instantly see where your games are won and lost — no subscription required.
Improve Your Game
A free, comprehensive video series covering openings, tactics, endgames, and strategy. Suitable for beginners through intermediate players. One of the most recommended resources among our members.
Paul Morphy is one of the greatest chess players in history. This book is an excellent introduction to classical chess through his brilliant games — accessible, instructive, and a great read for any level. Available on Amazon — search 'A First Book of Morphy by Frisco Del Rosario'
Mind & Mindset
Every chess player loses — often. This video explores how to handle defeat constructively, stay motivated, and use losses as fuel for growth rather than discouragement. Recommended for players of all levels.
Regional Organizations
The governing body for chess in Idaho. Organizes rated tournaments statewide including the Idaho State Championship and North Regional Scholastic events. The first place to look for official competitive opportunities in the region.
Our neighbors and friends in Spirit Lake, ID. A great option for players in the northern Idaho area looking for additional playing opportunities beyond our Monday meetings.
A USCF membership is required to play in officially rated tournaments. It's inexpensive and gives you an official national rating, access to rated events across the country, and recognition of your results. We can help you register — just ask at a Monday meeting or email us.