🦁 Leopard Chess School – Fair Play Policy for In-Person Chess Tournaments

To ensure a fair, competitive, and respectful environment, all participants must follow the rules outlined in this Fair Play Policy. By entering the tournament, players and guardians fully agree to these terms.

1 General Conduct

• All participants must maintain sportsmanship, respect, and honesty throughout the tournament.

• Disruptive or disrespectful behavior (verbal, physical, or psychological) toward opponents, staff, or anyone at the venue will result in immediate removal from the tournament.

• Severe or repeated misconduct will lead to:

  • A ban from future Leopard Chess School tournaments

  • A formal report to the Chess Federation of Canada (CFC) or relevant national body for further action
     

2 Touch-Move Rule

• The touch-move rule is strictly enforced:

  • Touching a piece during your turn means you must move it (if legal).

  • Touching an opponent’s piece with intent to capture means you must do so (if legal).

  • Say “j’adoube” before adjusting a piece without moving it.
     

3. Game Result Reporting

• After each game, both players must report the result together to the Arbiter.

• Incorrect or dishonest result reporting will affect the player's overall tournament points and may result in penalties.

• It is each player's responsibility to confirm the result is entered correctly.
   

4 Playing Hall Rules

• Only players and tournament staff are allowed in the playing area during games.

• Parents, guardians, and spectators must remain outside the playing hall to avoid distractions and interference.
   

5 Rules & Authority

• We follow the official FIDE and CFC rules.

• The Arbiter's decision is final in all matters related to the game and disputes.

• The Organizer’s decision is final in all matters related to tournament structure, discipline, and administration.

• The Organizer reserves the right to:

  • Modify the number of rounds based on actual turnout

  • Add, remove, or merge sections for balance

  • Adjust prizes if there are fewer participants.
     

6 Tiebreaks and Prizes

• Players finishing with equal points will have tiebreak prizes split equally, unless otherwise stated before the event.

• Trophies or rankings based on tiebreak systems (e.g., Buchholz) may still apply.
   

7 Agreement to Terms
       By participating, players and guardians confirm they:

• Accept all tournament rules and decisions by the Organizer and Arbiter

• Understand that violating this policy can lead to removal and future bans

• Agree to have photos/videos used by Leopard Chess School for educational or promotional purposes
   

We wish all players the best of luck and a fun, fair, and focused tournament experience!
For any questions, please speak to the Tournament Director or Chief Arbiter.