Ocean State Chess Association

The Official Rhode Island Affiliate of the US Chess Federation

Welcome to the Ocean State Chess Association (OSCA)—Rhode Island’s chess powerhouse and proud host of the 2024 Rhode Island State Championship!

Historic Event Alert: Fight With Madi Charity Tournament

We’re gearing up for the largest online chess tournament in Rhode Island history—the Fight With Madi Charity Online Tournament, a cancer benefit for a brave young lady named Madi. Join us on Lichess to support this incredible cause and make chess history!
Fight With Madi Details

Who We Are

OSCA is a registered non-profit committed to advancing chess throughout Rhode Island. We bring players of all ages—students, educators, and adults—together through top-tier events and community spirit.

• Tournament Leaders: We host more chess events than any other New England affiliate!
• Signature Events:
  • Rhode Island State Championship
  • Rhode Island Scholastic K-12 State Championship
  • Lou Giarrusso Centennial Memorial Cup
  • Tomorrow Fund Charity Fundraiser
• Coming Soon in 2025:
  • Stonehill College Open Championship
  • R.I. Blitz & Rapid Championship

Our Legacy

Founded by Frank DelBonis, a chess trailblazer with nearly 40 years of dedication, OSCA continues a rich tradition of leadership in Rhode Island and New England chess. Frank’s past ventures include founding the Rhode Island Chess Association and SENECA (South East New England Chess Association). Our volunteer officers and Board of Directors keep the momentum going strong.
Meet Our Team

Membership & Participation

Membership in this Lichess club is open to all chess enthusiasts interested in competition and regular prize tournaments. Event-specific account requirements may apply to ensure FairPlay and discourage unethical behavior. All players in OSCA tournaments are considered "event members" without formal registration, unless specified in the event description.

FairPlay & Rules

• Disqualification: Organizers reserve the right to disqualify or remove any player suspected of cheating or violating event/Lichess rules, with or without prior confirmation.
• Rating Integrity: Players manipulating their ratings (e.g., via alternate accounts or intentional drops) to enter restricted events are ineligible for prizes—such actions are considered cheating.

Tournament Prizes

• Claiming Prizes: Winners will be contacted via Lichess message for PayPal details.
• Tax Note: Players winning over $600 in a calendar year must submit a U.S. IRS Form W-9 (or international equivalent) before payment.
• Payout Timeline: Prizes are paid at least 7 days after the event concludes, allowing time for FairPlay review and processing (longer if needed).
• Fine Print: Fees or taxes may reduce the final prize amount. Accounts not in good standing are ineligible. Unclaimed prizes are forfeited after 30 days.

Our Partner

Check out our friends at Pawn Island Academy for top-notch chess coaching and exclusive OSCA merch!
Pawn Island Academy

Join us at OSCA—where every game fuels passion, purpose, and progress!