Fair Play & Conduct

Fair Play Rules

During tournament games, players must play entirely on their own. Players may not use:

• Chess engines or computer assistance

• Assistance or advice from another person

• Opening databases, analysis boards, books, notes, or other outside resources during a game

• Another device or account to obtain assistance

• Any other method that provides unauthorized assistance during play

All players must also follow the applicable Lichess Fair Play rules and CFC tournament requirements.

Fair Play Reviews

Because NCC tournaments are played online, games and accounts may be reviewed by Lichess using its fair-play detection systems. NCC may also review suspicious tournament activity and, where appropriate, refer concerns to Lichess or the Chess Federation of Canada.

NCC will not publicly declare a player guilty solely because of an unusual game or performance. Fair-play decisions will be based on available evidence and, where applicable, findings from Lichess or the CFC.

What Happens if Fair Play Is Violated?

A confirmed fair-play violation may result in consequences including:

Lichess: Lichess may restrict or close an account when it determines that its fair-play rules have been violated.

Northern Chess Club: Depending on the seriousness or frequency of the violation, NCC may:

• Remove or disqualify the player from the tournament

• Cancel eligibility for prizes

• Adjust tournament results where appropriate

• Suspend the player from future NCC tournaments

• Permanently ban the player from NCC events for serious or repeated violations

• Report relevant information to the CFC when appropriate

CFC: For CFC-rated tournaments, suspected or confirmed violations may also be referred to the Chess Federation of Canada. Any CFC disciplinary action is determined by the CFC under its own applicable rules and procedures.

Agreement to Fair Play

By registering for or participating in an NCC tournament, players agree to follow all applicable fair-play rules.

Knowingly agreeing to the Fair Play Policy and subsequently violating it may be considered by NCC when determining an appropriate NCC disciplinary response.

NCC reserves the right to take reasonable action necessary to protect the fairness and integrity of its tournaments.