Checkers tournament checklist: what to arrange and when

A checkers tournament runs smoothly when the competition details are fixed before you invite anyone. Choose the format, write rules players can understand, and keep registration details together so dietary needs and attendance are confirmed early. In the final week, prepare the match schedule, prizes, volunteers and equipment. On the day, allow time for tables, boards, registration and a short rules briefing before the first round starts.

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

Reserve venue
Determine the tournament format
2 people
Draw up competition rules
2 people
Send invitations
2 people
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Confirm participants
Order prizes
Create the match schedule
2 people
Assign volunteers
Check the shopping list
2 people
Do the shopping
2 people
Check checker sets
2 people
Set out prizes and materials
2 people
Chill drinks
2 people
Prepare sandwiches
3 people
Open venue
2 people
Set up tables
4 people
Set up chairs
3 people
Set out checkers sets
2 people
Set up registration desk
2 people
Post the rules

Event

Welcome participants
3 people
Give the introduction briefing
2 people
Supervise the first round
3 people
Record results
2 people
Refill drinks
2 people
Serve snacks
2 people
Supervise the second round
3 people
Lead the break
2 people
Guide the final round
3 people
Restock the sandwich buffet
2 people
Check final standings
2 people
Handle prize ceremony
2 people
Guide free-checkers rounds
2 people
See participants off
2 people

Aftercare

Collect checkers sets
3 people
Clear tables and chairs
4 people
Collect waste
2 people
Wash dishes
2 people
Clean the venue
3 people
Chill leftovers
Return borrowed materials
2 people
Publish results

What to bring

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

Furniture

Tablesqty 12
Chairsqty 40
Buffet tableqty 2
Registration desk

Sports equipment

Checkers boardsqty 20
Checkers piecesqty 20
Checkerboard bagsqty 20
Chess clocksqty 10
Spare checkers piecesqty 4
Prize trophiesqty 3
Medal ribbonsqty 10
Table number cardsqty 20

Equipment

Stopwatchesqty 4
Power stripsqty 4
Extension cordsqty 4
Wall clock

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 50
Coffee cupsqty 40
Platesqty 50
Cutlery setsqty 50
Serving spoonsqty 6
Scissorsqty 3

Kitchen

Cutting boardsqty 3
Bread knivesqty 3
Serving plattersqty 6
Coolersqty 3
Thermos flasksqty 4
Water jugsqty 4

Decorations

Competition rules signsqty 2
Directional signsqty 6
Tableclothsqty 6
Name stickersqty 50
Glue stripsqty 2

Lighting

Desk lampsqty 6

Cleaning

Bucketsqty 2
Broom and dustpanqty 2
Mopqty 2

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Set the tournament format and competition rules before sending invitations. State the number of rounds, time controls, tiebreak method and what happens if a player is late, so every registration answers the same questions.
Close registrations early enough to build the match schedule and confirm participants. A fixed deadline at least 3–5 days before the tournament gives you time to check names, dietary requirements and volunteer coverage.
Count complete playing stations, not just boards. Each match needs a board, a full set of pieces and clear table numbering; keep spare pieces available for missing or damaged components.
Prepare the venue in two stages: place tables and chairs first, then set out boards, pieces, clocks and table number cards. Keep the registration desk, rules signs and directional signs visible before doors open.
Prepare food and drinks after the competition setup is checked. Chill drinks and fill water jugs before arrival, and leave enough time to assemble sandwiches without blocking the registration desk or playing area.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I plan a checkers tournament?: Start venue and format planning at least 3–4 weeks ahead. Send invitations once the rules, registration deadline and basic schedule are clear, then confirm the final participant list 3–5 days before the event.
How many checkers sets do I need for a tournament?: Plan one complete checkers set for every match played at the same time, plus at least 1–2 spare sets or spare pieces. Count the maximum number of simultaneous matches from your format rather than the total number of registered players.
When should I create the checkers tournament schedule?: Create the first schedule as soon as registration closes, normally 3–5 days before the tournament. Recheck it after participant confirmation and print or post the final version before the first round.
What should I prepare on the day of a checkers tournament?: Arrive early enough to set up tables, chairs, the registration desk and all playing stations before doors open. Allow at least 30 minutes for the final equipment check, drinks and food, and a short introduction before round one.

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.