Checkers tournament checklist

A checkers tournament runs smoothly when the playing format, registrations, equipment, and venue setup are handled in the right order. Set the date and location first, then confirm players, prepare the match schedule, and assign volunteers. On tournament day, allow time for tables, checkers boards, clocks, registration, refreshments, and competition forms before the first round starts. This checklist keeps those details together so small omissions do not delay the opening match.

Organize this event for free with Lizzt

The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Set tournament date
Reserve play location
Set the tournament format
2 people
Send invitations
2 people
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Confirm participants
Order prizes and medals
Create the match schedule
2 people
Assign volunteers
Check game materials
2 people
Check the shopping list
Do the shopping
2 people
Set out prizes
Open venue
2 people
Set up tables and chairs
4 people
Set up checkers tables
3 people
Set up the race clocks
2 people
Prepare match forms
2 people
Set up registration desk
2 people
Chill drinks
2 people
Prepare coffee and tea
2 people
Prepare snacks and sandwiches
3 people

Event

Register participants
2 people
Open tournament
Guide rounds
3 people
Process results
2 people
Serve snacks
2 people
Refill drinks
2 people
Serve dinner
3 people
Check final standings
2 people
Present prizes
2 people
Close the tournament

Aftercare

Collect checkers and clocks
3 people
Wash dishes
3 people
Clear tables and chairs
4 people
Collect waste
2 people
Clean the venue
3 people
Return materials
2 people
Publish results
Thank participants

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Tablesqty 14
Chairsqty 60
Registration desk
Waste binsqty 4

Sports equipment

Checkers piecesqty 30
Checkers boardsqty 30
Chess clocksqty 30
Spare checkers piecesqty 4
Spare checkers boardsqty 4
Competition formsqty 100
Writing pensqty 40
Scoreboard
Break signsqty 30

Equipment

Laptop
Printer
Extension cordsqty 3
Power stripsqty 3
Phone chargersqty 2

Tableware

Glassesqty 70
Coffee cupsqty 60
Platesqty 70
Cutlery setsqty 70
Serving plattersqty 8

Kitchen

Coffee makerqty 2
Kettlesqty 2
Coolersqty 4
Thermos flasksqty 4

Decorations

Tournament banner
Tableclothsqty 14
Name badgesqty 60

Lighting

Table lampsqty 6

Cleaning

Cleaning bucketsqty 2
Broom and dustpanqty 2

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Set the tournament format before sending invitations. State the number of rounds, time control, registration deadline, and what happens if players arrive late.
Close registrations early enough to create the match schedule. Confirm the final participant list at least 24 hours before the tournament and print extra competition forms.
Count boards, pieces, clocks, pens, and spare sets before leaving for the venue. Keep at least one spare board and a spare set of checkers available for equipment problems.
Open the venue at least 90 minutes before the advertised start time. Use the first 30 minutes for tables and chairs, then set up checkers tables, clocks, the registration desk, and signs.
Plan refreshments around the breaks rather than during matches. Chill drinks, prepare coffee and tea, and put snacks and sandwiches out where players can reach them without crossing the playing area.

Frequently asked questions

How early should I arrive for a checkers tournament?: Arrive at least 90 minutes before the advertised start time. This gives you time to arrange tables and chairs, check boards and clocks, prepare registration, and resolve missing equipment before players are called to the boards.
How many checkers boards do I need for a tournament?: Prepare one board for every match played in a round, plus at least one spare board. For example, 16 players require 8 playing boards for the first round; bringing a spare board and spare pieces prevents one damaged set from stopping play.
When should I create the checkers tournament schedule?: Create the match schedule after registrations close and the participant list is confirmed, preferably at least 24 hours before the event. Print the schedule and keep a digital copy on the laptop so volunteers can update results and pairings.
What should I prepare at the registration desk?: Set up the desk 45 to 60 minutes before the tournament opens with the participant list, name badges, pens, competition forms, and any dietary information. Registration should finish before the opening announcement so the first matches can start on time.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.