The Councils of the Scottish Chess Association and Scottish Junior Chess Association have both resolved to embrace the concept of a merger from July 2001. A merger is seen by both Councils as the potentially best option for maximising development of chess in Scotland.

New opportunities are emerging as the climate for schools chess development improves, with the recognition that competitive sport in schools is fundamental to world class performance re-emerging. The organisers who currently want to promote chess in schools will be able to concentrate on delivering that.

And there are no greater priorities to delivering future success to build on the strong foundations created during the 30 years or so which the SJCA has existed. Youth chess in Scotland is certainly down in activity, if not in the strength at the top. That feeds through to lower numbers of young people in congresses and clubs, and to a general weakening of the infrastructure of Scottish chess.

A merger will also bring administrative improvements such as treating all membership together, with one membership database administered by one individual rather than the duplication of work and systems we have now. Merger will also facilitate family membership. It also offers scope for better focus in developing against our key objectives, ensuring that we way we spend our income is in line with those priorities.

Merging may also sensibly lead to a new name for the new organisation. Arguably, Federation would be a better name than Association, reflecting the change in the structure of chess in Scotland to include regional organisations, leagues and congresses, as well as clubs and individuals. Or perhaps something more modern such as Chess Scotland. At a later stage, we will consult widely with members on what the new organisation should be called.

Both Associations are working to review what the structure of any merged organisation would look like to deliver against its key objectives. Any change will of course need to be approved by general meetings of both organisations. Over the coming months, details of progress in the review will be posted on this website.

 

John Glendinning President (SCA)

Rod Tweedie President (SJCA)