Secondly, the group exists to play random matches against other teams, conduct internal tournaments, and to seek out other team match/league opportunities as they come to our attention. For those who want a lot of opportunities for team matches, I highly suggest joining Team USA Southeast. Hope this helps clarify things, otherwise feel free to reach out and ask questions. Thanks!
For many of our new members, understand that the number one reason for this group's existence is to represent Alabama in the United States Team Chess League. We are currently in the final stages of our last team matches for the 2026 USTCL season. The 2027 USTCL season starts on July 1, 2026, and because we finished in last place in Division 3, we will be getting moved down to Division 4. I will say it over and over again, that maximum participation is one of the key factors to having success.
If you are talking about the club only U1200 tournament it has started. I was a couple of days late getting it started because we had some recent new members.
I consider 1000 and below rapid to be lower rated. I hover between 600-700, but I really enjoy playing chess....I just have a difficult time getting my rating higher.