The Chess Arbiters Association is a body which comprises mainly of arbiters in England, Scotland and Wales. As well as qualified arbiters the Association welcomes into membership anyone wishing to gain the skills needed to officiate at a chess event.
The Chess Arbiters’ Association was founded by a meeting of BCF arbiters held at Eastbourne on Saturday 4th August 1990. 25 arbiters were present. The first meeting had only English arbiters in attendance but it was agreed that all arbiters with a nationally recognised title would be invited to join and notification was sent to Guernsey, Ireland, Jersey, Scotland and Wales. The first (interim) Chairman was Gerry Walsh. A second meeting was held on September 15th at which a full committee under the Chairmanship of Eric Croker was elected. The proposal for the organisation to be established was made by the late Richard Furness and seconded by Dave Welch.
The original objectives were:
to unify rules and practice of arbiting
organise an exam and recommend arbiters to the BCF
maintain standards
establish and maintain a casebook
publicise the Association
advise on rule changes
establish a hot-line
arrange a newsletter
set down criteria for a two tier membership
advise on equipment
create a forum for discussion
identify candidates for the title of FIDE Arbiter
Since then the Association has progressed and now offers training to potential arbiters and has had a major influence on the FIDE Laws of Chess.
Members of the Association are willing to run training courses throughout the country and limited financial support may be given to individuals who wish to gain experience and qualify as a National Arbiter, FIDE Arbiter or International Arbiter.
For further details on CAA activities please contact the Secretary, Geoff Jones.