Terms of Service & Tournament Policies
Operating As: Idaho Chess Network (ICN) / Idaho Chess Federation (DBA)
Effective Date: May 10, 2026
Last Updated: June 14, 2026
1. Introduction
These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your participation in events organized by the Idaho Chess Network (ICN), also operating under the trade name Idaho Chess Federation. These terms apply to all tournaments, workshops, camps, and related activities hosted by ICN. By registering for any ICN event, you agree to these Terms in full. If you do not agree, please do not register.
2. Eligibility & Registration
U.S. Chess Membership
- Most ICN-hosted tournaments are U.S. Chess rated events.
- Participants must hold a current U.S. Chess membership to play.
- If you are not a member, non-member fees will apply at registration.
- ICN reserves the right to verify membership status before pairing players.
Minors (Under 18)
- Parents or legal guardians must complete registration on behalf of any player under 18 years of age.
- By registering a minor, the parent/guardian acknowledges they have read and accepted these Terms on the child's behalf.
- A parent or guardian must be contactable during all events for minors.
3. Fee Structure & Refunds
Registration Fees
- All tournament entry fees are listed clearly on each event registration page.
- Early bird pricing applies only until the published deadline.
- On-site registration may incur additional fees or be unavailable for certain events.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
| Cancellation Timing | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| More than 14 days before event | 100% refund (minus processing fee) |
| 7–14 days before event | 50% refund (minus processing fee) |
| Less than 7 days before event | No refund |
| No-show (did not attend) | No refund |
| Event Cancelled by ICN | 100% refund automatically issued |
Processing fees charged by PayPal, Event Prime, or chessreg.com are non-refundable.
4. Code of Conduct
All participants, spectators, parents, and officials must adhere to a respectful and fair environment consistent with the U.S. Chess Code of Conduct. ICN strives to maintain a safe, distraction-free atmosphere where chess is the primary focus.
Prohibited Behaviors
- Cheating, engine use during events, or manipulation of games.
- Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or discriminatory language based on age, race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics.
- Disruptive behavior affecting other players, directors, or volunteers.
- Physical or verbal abuse directed at opponents, officials, or staff.
Reporting & Consequences
Any violations of this Code of Conduct will be investigated and addressed immediately.
- Internal Action: The Tournament Director has the authority to issue warnings, forfeit games, or remove individuals from the premises immediately.
- Reporting to U.S. Chess: Serious incidents, including cheating, harassment, or abuse, will be documented and reported to the U.S. Chess Federation Disciplinary Committee.
- Participants found in violation may face suspension or expulsion from U.S. Chess sanctioned events nationwide, independent of any action taken by ICN.
- Incidents involving minors will also be reported to appropriate local authorities if legally required.
- Long-Term Bans: Egregious misconduct may result in a permanent ban from all future ICN events.
5. Assumption of Risk & Liability Waiver
Participants Assume Risk
Participation in chess tournaments involves over-the-board activities. While generally low-risk, participants acknowledge the following risks exist:
- Crowds and venue environments
- Transportation to/from events
- Physical activity associated with playing long sessions
Release of Liability
By registering, you agree that:
- You are participating voluntarily and assume all risks associated with attendance.
- You release ICN (d/b/a Idaho Chess Federation), its directors, officers, volunteers, venues, and partners from any liability for injuries, accidents, theft, or losses occurring during the event.
- You will not sue or hold ICN accountable for any damages arising from participation.
Emergency Medical Authorization
For participants under 18, by registering, parents grant permission for emergency medical treatment to be provided if necessary. Emergency contacts must be up-to-date on registration forms.
6. Tournament Rules & Format
Governing Rules
All ICN tournaments follow the U.S. Chess Official Tournament Rules unless otherwise specified on the event registration page. Any deviations (e.g., time controls, tie-breaks, pairings format) will be clearly stated prior to registration.
Pairing Decisions
- The Tournament Director has final authority on all pairing decisions.
- Pairings are made using approved software (Swiss system, etc.) as standard practice.
- Tie-break methods (Solkoff, Cumulative, etc.) will be posted before the event begins.
Clocks & Time Control
- Clock malfunctions may result in time adjustments at the Director's discretion.
- Players are responsible for monitoring their own clocks.
- Flag falls according to U.S. Chess rules.
7. Intellectual Property & Media Release
Photographs & Video
- ICN may photograph or film events for publicity, news coverage, archives, and promotional purposes.
- By participating, you grant ICN permission to use your likeness in such materials without compensation.
- Parents of minors may request photo exclusion via registration form or in-person notification to staff.
Website Content
- Tournament results, photos, and news may be published on
idahochess.netand social media channels. - ICN does not guarantee permanent hosting of archived content beyond reasonable business periods.
8. Changes to These Terms
ICN may update these Terms from time to time to reflect changes in operations, law, or best practices. The latest version will be posted on this page with an updated "Effective Date." Continued participation after updates constitutes acceptance of new terms.
9. Governing Law
These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Idaho, United States. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Idaho jurisdiction.
10. Contact Information
For questions about these Terms or Tournament Policies, please contact us at:
Idaho Chess Network (d/b/a Idaho Chess Federation)
Email: governance@idahochess.net
Website: https://idahochess.net