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Difference between revisions of "2015 National SCRABBLE Championship"

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[[Image:Nsc-2014-logo.gif|right|150px|NSC 2014 logo]]
 
  
The '''2014 [[National SCRABBLE Championship]]''' took place on August 9-13, 2014 at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, 153 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202. This webpage was updated regularly as additional details became available.
+
'''NOTE: THIS PAGE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION.  DO NOT RELY ON INFORMATION POSTED TO THIS PAGE UNTIL THIS MESSAGE HAS BEEN REMOVED.
 +
'''
 +
 
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The '''2015 [[National SCRABBLE Championship]]''' will take place on August 1-5, 2015 at the Silver Legacy Resort and Reno Ballroom, 407 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV  89501. This webpage will be regularly as additional details became available.
  
 
==  Live Event Coverage ==
 
==  Live Event Coverage ==
  
For continuously updated results from our event once it gets underway, please visit the '''[http://event.scrabbleplayers.org/2014/nsc/build/index.html LIVE COVERAGE section]'''.
+
Live coverage of the event will be made available. Check back later for a link to the coverage.
  
 
== Registration ==
 
== Registration ==
  
<a href="http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/register.pl?event_id=NSC2014">Online registration</a> is available as of late December.
+
Online registration will available from this page, and is projected to be available in late January/early February.  
A list of <a href="http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/reglist.pl?event=NSC2014">registered players</a> is available on this website
+
A list of registered players will also be available on this website
 
and on cross-tables.com.
 
and on cross-tables.com.
 
The rest of this section describes in detail the various terms and conditions of registration, most of which are also discussed on the registration form.
 
The rest of this section describes in detail the various terms and conditions of registration, most of which are also discussed on the registration form.
  
Registration is open now, and will close on July 30, 2014, after which players will only be accepted if they do not make a division odd.  
+
Registration will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2015, after which players will only be accepted if they do not make a division odd.  
  
 
=== Eligibility ===
 
=== Eligibility ===
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planned CSW divisions, players will compete separately in an open division
 
planned CSW divisions, players will compete separately in an open division
 
and in one for players whose qualifying NASPA CSW rating (or equivalent as determined
 
and in one for players whose qualifying NASPA CSW rating (or equivalent as determined
by the organizing committee) is less than 1400.
+
by the organizing committee) is less than 1400.  If either division has fewer than 20 players registered as of July 22, 2015, the divisions will be automatically combined into a single division.
 
The qualifying NASPA CSW rating is the highest tournament rating attained at the
 
The qualifying NASPA CSW rating is the highest tournament rating attained at the
 
end of a NASPA CSW-rated tournament which finished during the period August
 
end of a NASPA CSW-rated tournament which finished during the period August
1, 2012 to July 30, 2014. (If you had a NASPA CSW rating prior to this period, but did
+
1, 2013 to July 22, 2015. (If you had a NASPA CSW rating prior to this period, but did
 
not play during the period, your qualifying rating is that unchanged rating.)
 
not play during the period, your qualifying rating is that unchanged rating.)
 
The CSW divisions will be NASPA and WESPA rated.
 
The CSW divisions will be NASPA and WESPA rated.
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If you do have a NASPA rating, then your division eligibility is based on a Qualification
 
If you do have a NASPA rating, then your division eligibility is based on a Qualification
 
Rating (QR), which consists of the highest tournament rating attained at the end
 
Rating (QR), which consists of the highest tournament rating attained at the end
of any NASPA TWL-rated tournament (or segment of a split-rated tournament) which finished during the period August 1, 2012 to July 30, 2014. (If you have a rating, but do not play during this period, your QR is your unchanged current rating.) If your QR is 1800 or higher, you must play in Division 1. If it is in the range 1400&ndash;1799, you must play in Division 1 or 2. If it is in the range 1000&ndash;1399, you must play in Division 1, 2 or 3. If it is below 1000, you may play in any of the four divisions.
+
of any NASPA TWL-rated tournament (or segment of a split-rated tournament) which finished during the period August 1, 2013 to July 22, 2015. (If you have a rating, but do not play during this period, your QR is your unchanged current rating.) If your QR is 1800 or higher, you must play in Division 1. If it is in the range 1400&ndash;1799, you must play in Division 1 or 2. If it is in the range 1000&ndash;1399, you must play in Division 1, 2 or 3. If it is below 1000, you may play in any of the four divisions.
  
Player division assignments will be reviewed after July 30, 2014 to ensure that everyone is registered in the correct division. If the division in which you registered is not one in which your QR permits you to play, we will move you up to the lowest permissible division. If this new division is Division 1, you will be required to pay the difference in entry fees before checking in at the Championship.
+
Player division assignments will be reviewed after July 22, 2015 to ensure that everyone is registered in the correct division. If the division in which you registered is not one in which your QR permits you to play, we will automatically move you up to the lowest permissible division.
  
 
=== Collins Division ===
 
=== Collins Division ===
  
If you are thinking about travelling from overseas to play in this event for the first time, please read our [[2014 NSC for Overseas Visitors]] page.
+
If you are thinking about travelling from overseas to play in this event for the first time, please read our [[2015 NSC for Overseas Visitors]] page.
  
 
Again this year, there will be at least one separate division of players using the [[Collins]] lexicon at the National Scrabble Championship.  Provided that at least 20 players register for each division, two Collins divisions will be offered.
 
Again this year, there will be at least one separate division of players using the [[Collins]] lexicon at the National Scrabble Championship.  Provided that at least 20 players register for each division, two Collins divisions will be offered.
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Your division eligibility is based on your Collins Qualifying Rating (CQR), which is determined in one of three ways, depending on your rating status.
 
Your division eligibility is based on your Collins Qualifying Rating (CQR), which is determined in one of three ways, depending on your rating status.
  
* If you have a NASPA Collins rating, then your CQR consists of the highest tournament rating attained at the end of any NASPA Collins-rated tournament (or segment of a split-rated tournament) which finished during the period August 1, 2012 to July 30, 2014. If you have a NASPA Collins rating, but do not play during this period, your CQR is your unchanged current rating.
+
* If you have a NASPA Collins rating, then your CQR consists of the highest tournament rating attained at the end of any NASPA Collins-rated tournament (or segment of a split-rated tournament) which finished during the period August 1, 2013 to July 22, 2015. If you have a NASPA Collins rating, but do not play during this period, your CQR is your unchanged current rating.
 
* If you do not have a NASPA Collins rating but do have a NASPA TWL rating, your CQR is your TWL QR as described in the previous section.
 
* If you do not have a NASPA Collins rating but do have a NASPA TWL rating, your CQR is your TWL QR as described in the previous section.
* If you do not have any NASPA rating but do have a WESPA rating, your CQR is the most current WESPA rating available for you as of July 30, 2014.
+
* If you do not have any NASPA rating but do have a WESPA rating, your CQR is the most current WESPA rating available for you as of July 22, 2015.
 
* If you do not have any NASPA or WESPA rating but do have a foreign national rating, you will be assigned an equivalent CQR by the organizing committee.
 
* If you do not have any NASPA or WESPA rating but do have a foreign national rating, you will be assigned an equivalent CQR by the organizing committee.
  
 
If you do not have any sort of rating at all, you must first obtain one at a regular tournament before competing in the Championship.
 
If you do not have any sort of rating at all, you must first obtain one at a regular tournament before competing in the Championship.
  
If your CQR is 1400 or higher, you must play in Division 1. If it is 1399 or below, you may play in Division 1 or 2. If fewer than 20 players register in either division, the two divisions will be combined into a single Collins division.
+
If your CQR is 1400 or higher, you must play in Division 1. If it is 1399 or below, you may play in Division 1 or 2. If fewer than 20 players register in either division, the two divisions will be automatically combined into a single Collins division.
  
 
The Collins division will be run using NASPA rules, except that the Collins lexicon will be used and the challenge penalty will be 5 points per word.  The Collins division will be NASPA and WESPA rated.
 
The Collins division will be run using NASPA rules, except that the Collins lexicon will be used and the challenge penalty will be 5 points per word.  The Collins division will be NASPA and WESPA rated.
 
=== Youth Division ===
 
 
As announced at the [[2014 National School SCRABBLE Championship]],
 
this year&rsquo;s NSC will feature a Youth Division.
 
 
This division is open to NASPA members born after August 31, 1999.
 
It will play 12 rounds on August 9&ndash;10 in the same playing room and
 
at the same time as the regular adult divisions.
 
 
Participants will compete in two-player teams according to School SCRABBLE rules,
 
rated in NASPA’s School SCRABBLE rating system, using the OSPD4 lexicon
 
(+ GEOCACHE and inflections). The entry fee is $25 per player,
 
trophies will be awarded by age category and for
 
best school, with other prizes to be determined based on registration.
 
 
Players must have a teammate in order to play, but do not need to have
 
one at time of registration. If you need help finding a teammate, we will
 
match you up with others who are also looking for teammates.
 
 
We welcome additional questions about this new event, and will respond to them
 
in this section.
 
 
[http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/register.pl?event_id=NSC2014Y Online registration] opened on May 14, and will close on July 30.
 
  
 
=== Entry Fees ===
 
=== Entry Fees ===
  
The base entry fee for Division 1 and the Collins Division is $175; for Divisions 2–4, $150.
+
The base entry fee for all divisions is $160.
  
Youths, defined as those whose 18th birthday is after July 20, 2014, may pay $50 to play in any division.
+
Youths, defined as those whose 18th birthday is after August 1, 2015, may pay $50 to play in any division.
  
The above fees will be increased by $50 after May 31, 2014. For example, a Division 1 player signing up on June 1, 2014 would pay $225.
+
The above fees will be increased by $50 after May 31, 2015. For example, a non-youth player signing up on June 1, 2015 would pay $210, while a youth would pay $100.
  
Players accepted after the close of registration on July 30, 2014 must pay a $75 late penalty. For example, a youth signing up on August 1, 2014 would pay $175.  Acceptance of registrants after July 30, 2014 is not guaranteed, and will generally only be permitted if it does not cause a division to be uneven.
+
Players accepted after the close of registration on July 22, 2015 must pay a $75 late penalty. For example, a non-youth player signing up on July 23, 2015 would pay $285, while a youth would pay $175.  Acceptance of registrants after July 22, 2015 is not guaranteed, and will generally only be permitted if it does not cause a division to be uneven.
  
Players not staying at the host hotel for the duration of the event must also pay a commuter/facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum).  The commuter fee does not apply to those local to the Buffalo area. Verification of status as a hotel guest will be performed at registration/check-in and throughout the event.  Players staying at the host hotel for only part of the event must pay the full commuter fee, and may then apply for a refund of $20 per day stayed at the host hotel (to a maximum of $100) after the conclusion of the event, by providing the Championship Committee with hotel confirmation number and dates of stay.
+
'''Players not staying at the host hotel for the duration of the event must also pay a commuter/facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum).''' The commuter fee does not apply to those local to the Reno area. Verification of status as a hotel guest will be performed at registration/check-in and throughout the event.  Players staying at the host hotel for only part of the event must pay the full commuter fee, and may then apply for a refund of $20 per day stayed at the host hotel (to a maximum of $100) after the conclusion of the event, by providing the Championship Committee with hotel confirmation number and dates of stay.
  
Fees payable are computed based on when (Central Time) funds are received in full. If you are not paying right away online at the moment when you register, please be sure to allow enough time for your mailed payment to reach us.
+
Fees payable are computed based on when (Eastern Time) funds are received in full. If you are not paying right away online at the moment when you register, please be sure to allow enough time for your mailed payment to reach us.
  
 
=== Division Changes ===
 
=== Division Changes ===
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Division changes are subject to the following conditions:
 
Division changes are subject to the following conditions:
  
* After registration closes on July 30, 2014, if your division change would increase the number of players who may potentially have to have byes (if you would make two divisions odd, or would make a larger division odd), you will be waitlisted until this is not the case.
+
* After registration closes on July 22, 2015, if your division change would increase the number of players who may potentially have to have byes (if you would make two divisions odd, or would make a larger division odd), you will be waitlisted until this is not the case.
* If you move to a division with a higher base entry fee, the change will not take effect until you have paid the difference in entry fees.
 
* If you move to a division with a lower base entry fee, the difference in entry fees will be refunded to your credit card (if that is how you paid, and if the time limit on credit card refunds has not elapsed), or by check or cash at check-in otherwise.
 
  
 
If your rating rises above the limit for the division in  
 
If your rating rises above the limit for the division in  
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If you decide you need to cancel your registration, we will
 
If you decide you need to cancel your registration, we will
refund your entry fee (and commuter fee, if applicable), if you so request by 11:59 p.m. Central Time on July 30, 2014.
+
refund your entry fee (and commuter fee, if applicable), if you so request by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2015.
  
 
=== Conditions ===
 
=== Conditions ===
  
 
==== Rules, Code and Terms/Conditions ====
 
==== Rules, Code and Terms/Conditions ====
By registering for the NSC, you agree to abide by the NASPA Tournament [[Rules]] and [[Code of Conduct]], and agree to comply with the [[2014 National SCRABBLE Championship Terms and Conditions]].
+
By registering for the NSC, you agree to abide by the NASPA Tournament [[Rules]] and [[Code of Conduct]], and agree to comply with the [[2015 National SCRABBLE Championship Terms and Conditions]].
 
In particular, some games at this tournament, probably the highest Division 1 board without a Gibsonized player,
 
In particular, some games at this tournament, probably the highest Division 1 board without a Gibsonized player,
 
will be annotated live.
 
will be annotated live.
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==== Minor Release ====
 
==== Minor Release ====
A [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/wiki/images/a/a3/2014_NSC_Minor_Release_and_Consent_Form.pdf Minor Release and Consent Form] will be required for all players under age 18 as of July 30, 2014, and may be downloaded and submitted in advance, or executed by a parent or guardian at registration.
+
A [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/wiki/images/a/a3/2015_NSC_Minor_Release_and_Consent_Form.pdf Minor Release and Consent Form] will be required for all players under age 18 as of August 1, 2015, and may be downloaded and submitted in advance, or executed by a parent or guardian at registration.
  
 
==== Player Bulletin ====
 
==== Player Bulletin ====
 
Please read our  
 
Please read our  
[[2014 National SCRABBLE Championship Player Bulletin|Player Bulletin]], and check
+
[[2015 National SCRABBLE Championship Player Bulletin|Player Bulletin]], and check
 
it again for last-minute updates before you travel to the event.
 
it again for last-minute updates before you travel to the event.
  
 
==== Equipment Required ====
 
==== Equipment Required ====
Participants in the 2014 National Scrabble Championship are responsible for bringing all equipment necessary to play in the tournament. If neither player in a game has equipment available for their game, a double forfeit may be imposed.  
+
Participants in the 2015 National Scrabble Championship are responsible for bringing all equipment necessary to play in the tournament. If neither player in a game has equipment available for their game, a double forfeit may be imposed.  
  
 
==== Changes ====
 
==== Changes ====
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== Hotel/Travel Information ==
 
== Hotel/Travel Information ==
 
See also our <a href="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=zdfE58_Box4E.kzUyBGEvCkeo">Google Map</a>.
 
 
For information about airline discounts, please consult the
 
[[2014 National SCRABBLE Championship Player Bulletin|player bulletin]].
 
  
 
=== Hotel Registration ===
 
=== Hotel Registration ===
  
The official event hotel is the Hyatt Regency Buffalo at  
+
The official event hotel is the Silver Legacy Resort at 407 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV  89501 (phone: 800-687-8733). An online registration link will be made available on this page soon. Tournament entrants are eligible for our special rate of $99/night on Friday-Saturday, and $69/night Sunday-Thursday (single or double occupancy; plus tax and $12/night in resort and facility fees) at the event hotel - use booking code NASPA15;
2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14202 (phone: 716-856-1234).
+
those who live outside of the Reno area and do not either book a room at the host hotel or book a room within our group block at one of the other hotels listed below, will pay a $100 facility fee to contribute the cost of the venue space. The midweek rate will be available before the event from July 27-30, 2015Late departures will also be accommodated at the group rate subject to availability, but the group rate is not available for the weekend following the event.
Players registering through our
 
[http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/register.pl group link]
 
are eligible for our special rate of $129/night (single or double occupancy; plus tax) at the event hotel;
 
those who live outside of the Buffalo area and do not either book a room at the host hotel or book a room within our group block at one of the other hotels listed below, will pay a $100 facility fee to contribute the cost of the venue space.
 
 
 
Complimentary in-room wireless internet is included in our group rateHotel bookings at our group rate are subject to availability within our group rate block of rooms, and must be booked before July 17, 2014.
 
 
 
The Hyatt is immediately adjacent to the Convention Center,
 
and is connected to it by an indoor walkway, with elevators
 
available for players with mobility issues.
 
 
 
Our room block at the Hyatt is completely sold out, including additional rooms that were secured at a slightly higher rate.  We are no longer accepting waiting list names, as there is no reasonable possibility of accommodating those already on the waiting list. Additional rooms outside our block, not necessarily including any negotiated amenities, may be available at the Hyatt at market rates.
 
 
 
We have added overflow rooms at The Lafayette Hotel at 391 Washington St, and at the Comfort Suites Downtown at 601 Main St.  As of May 23, 2014, there is no remaining availability in our group blocks at these hotels.  Some additional rooms may become available, in the event of cancellation.
 
  
We have made arrangements with the following additional hotels. No commuter/facility fee for booking at any of these hotels within the group blocks.
+
Hotel bookings at our group rate are subject to availability within our group rate block of rooms, and must be booked before July 1, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
  
Holiday Inn / Buffalo - 716-886-2121 - We have 50 rooms available at $129/night (plus tax) - call and mention National SCRABBLE Championship for group rate.  Rate includes free parking, free wi-fi throughout the entire hotel, shuttle service to/from convention center (pre-book to guarantee availability), an outdoor, heated pool, and a full service restaurant open for breakfast and dinnerCancellation penalty applies after 7/14/2014.  Must book by 7/15/2014.
+
The Silver Legacy is located down the block from the Reno Ballroom, where tournament play will be conductedMany after-hours activities will be held in the Silver Legacy meeting rooms.
 
Best Western- 888-868-3033 - We have 10 rooms available at $129/night (plus tax) - call and mention National SCRABBLE Championship for group rate.
 
 
Hampton Inn - Downtown - 716-855-2223  - We have 10 kings at $159/night (plus tax).  This rate includes free parking, free breakfast and free internet.  Call and mention National SCRABBLE Championship for group rate.
 
 
Courtyard by Marriott - 716-840-9566 - We 15 kings and 5 queen two-bed rooms at $159/night (plus tax).  This rate includes free internet, but parking is $12/night.  This property is only 2 weeks old, so if "new" appeals to you, this might be a good choice.  Call and mention National SCRABBLE Championship for group rate.
 
 
We are in contact with all nearby hotels and will update you, if we are able to secure any additional properties.
 
  
 
=== Hotel and Event Parking ===
 
=== Hotel and Event Parking ===
  
The Hyatt Regency offers valet parking at standard hotel rates (currently $23/day).  Hotel guests may also make use of the self parking lots in the vicinity of the hotel.
+
The Silver Legacy offers free self and valet parking in covered garages.
 
 
There are a number of self parking lots available to both hotel guests and commuters to the tournament.  For a map of available lots, [http://www.buffaloconvention.com/files/documents/BNCC_parking_map.pdf click here].
 
 
 
Daily parking rates at self parking lots vary.  Based on the best available information, rates begin at $4 per day.  To search for parking rates, visit [http://www.bestparking.com/buffalo-parking/ BestParking.com] and perform an address search using "153 Franklin Street" for the address.
 
  
 
=== Dining ===
 
=== Dining ===
  
Buffalo offers hundreds of restaurant options, with something to suit every taste.  Explore the area's eateries at the [http://www.visitbuffaloniagara.com/food-and-dining/ Food and Dining Guide] provided by www.visitbuffaloniagara.com.
+
Dining information will be posted later.
 
 
Here are two articles about the Buffalo dining scene:
 
 
 
* [http://www.thestar.com/life/travel/2013/12/14/lets_raise_a_glass_to_buffalo_a_city_of_great_hospitality.html Let's raise a glass to Buffalo]
 
* [http://www.thestar.com/life/travel/2013/12/17/buffalo_what_to_eat_where_to_go.html Buffalo: what to eat, where to go].
 
  
 
=== Sightseeing ===
 
=== Sightseeing ===
  
[http://www.niagaraparks.com/ Niagara falls] tour bus transportation will be coordinated at the Activities Director's desk. Date(s) will be scheduled based on the level of interest.
+
Sightseeing information will be posted later.
 
 
[http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t422 The Buffalo Bisons] minor league baseball team has home games vs. Norfolk on August 11, 12, 13, and 14.
 
 
 
[http://www.visitbuffaloniagara.com/includes/events/index.cfm?action=displayDetail&eventid=66447 Old Falls Street Kids' Club] offers fun activities for children each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday beginning at noon.
 
 
 
The [http://www.sciencebuff.org/ Mummies of the World Exhibition] at the Buffalo Museum of Science. Mummies of the World is the largest exhibition of mummies and related artifacts in North America. This compelling collection, presented with reverence and dignity, includes ancient mummies and important artifacts from across the globe including ancient Egypt.
 
 
 
[http://www.buffalogardens.com Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens] provides a place for safe, meaningful play and discovery as children of all ages and abilities explore the wonders of the plant world and the importance of eating healthy. Get to know some of the many tree species in the South Park Arboretum with Kristy Blakely, Director of Education.
 
 
 
Side by Side by Sondheim will be presented at the [www.musicalfare.com MusicalFare Theater].  Shows at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, August 8 and 9.
 
 
 
[http://www.senecaniagaracasino.com/entertainment Seneca Niagara Casino] is offering a high-energy show, with unique and renowned street performers from Las Vegas will perform outdoors along the pedestrian bridge over Seneca Square and near the 4th St. entranceway to the casino resort. Performances will alternate on the half-hours between 6PM and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as between 1PM and 5PM on Sundays, weather permitting.
 
 
 
Additionally, Steely Dan will perform at Seneca Niagara on August 8.
 
 
 
[http://shakespeareindelawarepark.org/ Shakespeare in Delaware Park] is offering free performances of The Comedy of Errors at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays through Sundays.
 
 
 
[www.queencityferry.com Queen City Ferry] offers a water ferry service between Buffalo's inner and outer harbors.  Round trip takes about 1 hour. 
 
 
 
[http://www.the-fairgrounds.com/ The Erie County Fair] runs August 6-17.
 
 
 
[http://www.spiritofbuffalo.com/ The Spirit of Buffalo] offers two-hour cruises on a classic 73 foot topsail schooner.
 
 
 
[http://templetonlanding.com/templetonlanding/default.aspx Templeton Landing] offers Buffalo Brew Wednesdays, from 6-10 p.m.  Sample local brewers, and enjoy local specials.
 
 
 
[http://www.lucycomedyfest.com/ The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival] runs through August 10.
 
 
 
[http://buffalohistorytours.com/brewery-tours The VIP Brewery Tour] is offered on Thursdays at the Hotel Lafayette.
 
 
 
[http://www.heliumcomedy.com/buffalo/ Comedian Rich Vos] is at the Helium Comedy Club on August 9.
 
 
 
[http://www.fallsstreet.com/ Old Falls Street] features classic rock and dance bands on Friday nights from 7-10 p.m.
 
 
 
More information on activities will be provided in your player packet.
 
  
 
=== Roommate Wanted ===
 
=== Roommate Wanted ===
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IMPORTANT: When you get your roommate, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.
 
IMPORTANT: When you get your roommate, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.
 
* Robb Griffith is seeking 1&ndash;3 nonsmoking male or female roommates. He is staying 8/8&ndash;13 at the event hotel. [mailto:robbgriffi@aol.com robbgriffi@aol.com]
 
* Vicki Kahn is seeking a female roommate.  Contact her at [mailto:tier11@earthlink.net tier11@earthlink.net].
 
* Ted Rosen is seeking a male, non-smoking roommate at the Hyatt only for the night of August 12. Contact him at [mailto:tedscrab@aol.com tedscrab@aol.com].
 
* Walker Willingham is seeking a nonsmoking roommate for the night of 8/7 only.  Contact him at [mailto:walkerwillingham@gmail.com walkerwillingham@gmail.com].
 
* Michael Fagen is seeking a roommate for the tournament.  Please contact him at [mailto:michael@compunetics.ca michael@compunetics.ca].
 
* Lois Lockhart is seeking a female, nonsmoking roommate for the NSC. She has a room at the Best Western.  She can be reached at 973-373-1897.
 
* Rebecca Soble is seeking a female roommate (nonsmoker preferred) at the Hyatt for the night of 8/13 only.  Contact her at [mailto:rsoble@pobox.com rsoble@pobox.com].
 
* Danny Panganiban is seeking a male, nonsmoking roommate for the tournament.  He has a room reserved at the Hyatt.  Contact him at [mailto:dannypang@hotmail.com dannypang@hotmail.com].
 
  
 
=== Ride Wanted ===
 
=== Ride Wanted ===
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IMPORTANT: When you get your ride/rider, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.
 
IMPORTANT: When you get your ride/rider, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.
 
* Murray Goldenberg is seeking a ride to South Orange, NJ, or anywhere in the NYC-NJ area, immediately after the tournament on Wednesday, Aug. 13th.  Contact him at [mailto:murgol@mymts.net murgol@mymts.net] or at 1-204-390-0043.
 
  
 
=== Airport Transport Information ===
 
=== Airport Transport Information ===
  
The nearest international airports to the tournament site are as follows. Note that airports with IATA codes beginning with Y are on the Canadian side of the international border, and that travel time does not include highly variable border-crossing delays.
+
Airport information will be posted later.
 
 
{|
 
!IATA
 
!Name
 
!Time
 
!Distance
 
|-
 
|BUF
 
|'''Buffalo''' Niagara
 
|00:15
 
|10 mi
 
|-
 
|IAG
 
|'''Niagara Falls'''
 
|00:25
 
|20 mi
 
|-
 
|ROC
 
|Greater '''Rochester'''
 
|01:10
 
|70 mi
 
|-
 
|YHM
 
|John C. Munro '''Hamilton'''
 
|01:15
 
|120 km
 
|-
 
|YYZ
 
|'''Toronto''' Pearson
 
|01:30
 
|150 km
 
|-
 
|YKF
 
|Region of '''Waterloo'''
 
|01:50
 
|170 km
 
|-
 
|YTZ
 
|Billy Bishop '''Toronto City'''
 
|02:00
 
|160 km
 
|}
 
  
 
=== Buffalo Airport Shuttle ===
 
=== Buffalo Airport Shuttle ===
  
There is a group agreement set up with Buffalo Shuttle When you set up online or call in, please make note of the code SCRABBLE. This lets them know that you are part of our group. They will group as many of you together as possible to ensure we get the best rate. For one passenger it would be $30.00. If they can get 5 or more, it goes down to ONLY $10.00. Please note they do pick ups at the airport and train station. Don't miss out on an excellent chance to save on your transport to and from the tournament.
+
Airport shuttle information will be posted later.
 
 
Buffalo Shuttle also does group shuttles to Niagara Falls. Ask them about these daily trips!!
 
 
 
Toll Free 1-877-750-2550
 
 
 
[http://www.buffaloairportshuttle.com/ Website]
 
  
 
== Check-In ==
 
== Check-In ==
  
To play in the first round on Saturday morning, you must check in between 10:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. on Friday, August 8, 2014, at the NSC registration desk in the Convention Center lobby outside the playing area. You may ask a friend to check in for you by proxy, if you cannot check in in person. If possible, please email us at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org to notify us in advance of proxy arrangements. If you check in by proxy, but do not show up to play, then neither you nor your proxy will be permitted to check in by proxy at future events. If you do not check in before the desk closes at 7:00 P.M., you may join the championship in progress as soon as it is convenient for the pairings staff to add you back in; this may not take place before Sunday morning. No refund will be issued to latecomers.
+
To play in the first round on Saturday morning, you must check in between 10:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. on Friday, July 31, 2015, at the NSC registration desk (location to be announced later). You may ask a friend to check in for you by proxy, if you cannot check in in person. If possible, please email us at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org to notify us in advance of proxy arrangements. If you check in by proxy, but do not show up to play, then neither you nor your proxy will be permitted to check in by proxy at future events. If you do not check in before the desk closes at 7:00 P.M., you may join the championship in progress as soon as it is convenient for the pairings staff to add you back in; this may not take place before Sunday morning. No refund will be issued to latecomers.
  
 
When you check in, you will be given an announcement sheet. This is to reduce the number of announcements that have to be made on Saturday morning, so that the event can get underway quickly. You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with the announcements and tournament schedule.
 
When you check in, you will be given an announcement sheet. This is to reduce the number of announcements that have to be made on Saturday morning, so that the event can get underway quickly. You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with the announcements and tournament schedule.
 
== Local Club Meetings ==
 
 
Players arriving early may wish to play warmup games at local [[Club Roster|clubs]]
 
 
=== Wednesday: Toronto, ON ===
 
 
The [http://torontoscrabbleclub.com/ Toronto SCRABBLE Club] meets regularly at 4169 Bathurst Street, south of Sheppard Avenue West. See the club website for more information and directions; out-of-town visitors play for free.
 
 
=== Thursday: Buffalo, NY ===
 
 
The Buffalo SCRABBLE Club (No.456) meets on Thursday evenings and would like to invite any players in town early for the NSC to attend our club meeting and a buffet dinner on Thursday August 7.
 
 
The club members will provide a potluck style dinner beginning at 6:00 pm followed by our regular 3-game club meeting at 7:00. The evening is free of charge for visitors. We would appreciate an RSVP by Wednesday August 6 from players planning to attend so that we can set up enough tables.
 
 
The club meets at the Kenmore Baptist Church, 10 Wardman Road, Kenmore NY 14217. The church is just east of Delaware Avenue about 5 miles north of the NSC hotel/convention center in downtown Buffalo. Buffalo Club members can help with transportation for those players without cars.
 
 
To RSVP or for more info, directions, or to request a ride, please contact Joan Tondra: ardnotj8@roadrunner.com or 716-847-0391.
 
 
=== Thursday: Mississauga, ON ===
 
 
The [http://mississaugascrabble.com/ Mississauga SCRABBLE Club] meets on Thursday evenings at 7:15 P.M.
 
  
 
== Schedule ==
 
== Schedule ==
  
This '''schedule for the [[2014 National SCRABBLE Championship]]''' may be modified to add new events, or possibly to change room locations.  Also, until about a month before the event, it should be considered an early draft, with only the times for registration and the main event to be set in stone. Once the event begins,
+
This '''schedule for the [[2015 National SCRABBLE Championship]]''' may be modified to add new events, or possibly to change room locations.  Also, until about a month before the event, it should be considered an early draft, with only the times for registration and the main event to be set in stone. Once the event begins,
 
please check this schedule for changes at the beginning of each day.
 
please check this schedule for changes at the beginning of each day.
  
For those arriving early in the region, see also the preceding section on [[2014 National SCRABBLE Championship#Local Club Meetings|local club meetings]].
+
=== Friday, July 31, 2015 ===
 
 
Unless otherwise indicated, all events take place at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center at 153 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202.
 
 
 
=== Friday, August 8, 2014 ===
 
 
; 10&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;7&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 10&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;7&#58;00 P.M.  
: Registration (Lobby)
+
: Registration
 
; 10&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.
 
; 10&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.
: After hours room open (Room 106AD)
+
: After hours room open
 
; 12&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;4&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 12&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;4&#58;00 P.M.  
: [[2014 NSC Early Bird|Early bird tournament]], restricted to NSC Staff and other NASPA directors (Room 106BC)
+
: [[2014 NSC Early Bird|Early bird tournament]], restricted to NSC Staff and other NASPA directors
 
; 4&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;5&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 4&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;5&#58;30 P.M.  
: Committee meeting for Division Leaders, Division Assistants, Auxiliary Staff (Boardroom)
+
: Committee meeting for Division Leaders, Division Assistants, Auxiliary Staff  
 
; 7&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;10&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 7&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;10&#58;00 P.M.  
: [[Opening Reception]] (Ballroom)
+
: [[Opening Reception]]
  
=== Saturday, August 9, 2014 ===
+
=== Saturday, August 1, 2015 ===
; 8&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;45 A.M.
 
: Youth Registration (Lobby)
 
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;10 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;10 A.M.  
: Announcements; Group Photos - School SCRABBLE/Youth Players (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements; Group Photos - School SCRABBLE/Youth Players
; 9&#58;10 A.M.&ndash;12&#58;50 P.M.
 
: Youth Rounds 1&ndash;3 (North Exhibit Floor)
 
 
; 9&#58;10 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;10 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 1&ndash;4 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 1&ndash;4  
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
: [[Canadian Committee]], [[Technology Committee]] and (as yet unnamed committee) lunch meetings (Room 109)
+
: [[Canadian Committee]] and [[Technology Committee]] lunch meetings
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
: Announcements and 2013 Best Strategic Prize presentation (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 5&ndash;7 (North Exhibit Floor)<br>Youth Rounds 4&ndash;6 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 5&ndash;7  
 
; 6&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;10&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 6&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;10&#58;00 P.M.  
 
: Advisory Board Dinner Meeting (TBA)
 
: Advisory Board Dinner Meeting (TBA)
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
: After hours room open (Room 106AD)
+
: After hours room open
 
; 8&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;11&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 8&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;11&#58;00 P.M.  
: [[2014 NSC Trivia Contest|Trivia Contest]] (Room 106BC)
+
: [[2014 NSC Trivia Contest|Trivia Contest]]
  
=== Sunday, August 10, 2014 ===
+
=== Sunday, August 2, 2015 ===
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 8&#58;50 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;50 A.M.  
: Group Photos - Past NSC Champions/Division Winners (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Group Photos - Past NSC Champions/Division Winners
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;10 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;10 A.M.  
: Announcements (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements  
; 9&#58;10 A.M.&ndash;12&#58;50 P.M.
 
: Youth Rounds 7&ndash;9 (North Exhibit Floor)
 
 
; 9&#58;10 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;10 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 8&ndash;11 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 8&ndash;11
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
: [[Club/Director Committee]] and [[Rules Committee]] lunch meetings (Room 109)
+
: [[Club/Director Committee]] and [[Rules Committee]] lunch meetings
: [[World Youth Events Information Session]] (Boardroom)
 
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
: Announcements (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 12&ndash;14 (North Exhibit Floor)<br>Youth Rounds 10&ndash;12 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 12&ndash;14
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
: After hours room open (Room 108AD)
+
: After hours room open
; 6&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;7&#58;00 P.M. (may be earlier depending on when last games end)
 
: Youth Prize Ceremony (106BC)
 
 
; 8&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
: Evening Musicale (Room 106BC)
+
: Evening Musicale
  
=== Monday, August 11, 2014 ===
+
=== Monday, August 3, 2015 ===
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 8&#58;45 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;45 A.M.  
: Group Photo - NSC Staff (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Group Photo - NSC Staff
 
; 8&#58;50 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;50 A.M.  
: Group Photo - New Yorkers (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Group Photo - Nevadans
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;05 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;05 A.M.  
: Announcements (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements  
 
; 9&#58;05 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;05 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 15&ndash;18 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 15&ndash;18  
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
: [[Tournament Committee]] and [[International Committee]] lunch meetings (Room 109)
+
: [[Tournament Committee]] and [[International Committee]] lunch meetings
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
: Announcements (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 19&ndash;21 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 19&ndash;21  
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
: After hours room open (Room 106AD)
+
: After hours room open  
 
; 8&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;10&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;10&#58;00 P.M.  
: Town Hall meeting (Room 106BC)
+
: Town Hall meeting
  
 
=== Tuesday, August 12, 2014 ===
 
=== Tuesday, August 12, 2014 ===
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 8&#58;50 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;50 A.M.  
: Group Photo - International Players (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Group Photo - International Players
 
; 9&#58;05 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;05 A.M.&ndash;1&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 22&ndash;25 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 22&ndash;25
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 1&#58;15 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
: [[Dictionary Committee]] lunch meeting (Room 109)
+
: [[Dictionary Committee]] lunch meeting
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;45 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;55 P.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
 
; 2&#58;55 P.M.&ndash;3&#58;05 P.M.  
: Announcements (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
 
; 3&#58;05 P.M.&ndash;6&#58;15 P.M.  
: Rounds 26&ndash;28 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 26&ndash;28
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;00 A.M.&ndash;11&#58;30 P.M.  
: After hours room open (Room 106AD)
+
: After hours room open
 
; 7&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;11&#58;00 P.M.
 
; 7&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;11&#58;00 P.M.
: [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/w/2014_Tag-Team_SCRABBLE_Tournament Tag-Team Tourney] (Room 106AD)
+
: [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/w/2015_Tag-Team_SCRABBLE_Tournament Tag-Team Tourney]
 
; 8&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;9&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 8&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;9&#58;30 P.M.  
: [[2014 NSC Director Meeting|Director meeting]] (Room 106BC)
+
: [[2015 NSC Director Meeting|Director meeting]]
  
 
=== Wednesday, August 13, 2014 ===
 
=== Wednesday, August 13, 2014 ===
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;30 A.M.&ndash;8&#58;55 A.M.  
: Set up for play (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Set up for play
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;05 A.M.  
 
; 8&#58;55 A.M.&ndash;9&#58;05 A.M.  
: Announcements (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Announcements
 
; 9&#58;05 A.M.&ndash;12&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 9&#58;05 A.M.&ndash;12&#58;30 P.M.  
: Rounds 29&ndash;31 (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Rounds 29&ndash;31
 
; 1&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
 
; 1&#58;30 P.M.&ndash;2&#58;30 P.M.  
: Prize Ceremony (Room 106BC)
+
: Prize Ceremony
 
; 3&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;7&#58;00 P.M.  
 
; 3&#58;00 P.M.&ndash;7&#58;00 P.M.  
: Tear Down (North Exhibit Floor)
+
: Tear Down
  
 
== The Rose Award ==
 
== The Rose Award ==
Line 495: Line 307:
 
== Prizes ==
 
== Prizes ==
  
Full details about cash prizes, and anticipated merchandise prizes, will be posted on the [[2014 National SCRABBLE Championship prizes|prize table]] once they are available.
+
Full details about cash prizes, and anticipated merchandise prizes, will be posted on the [[2015 National SCRABBLE Championship prizes|prize table]] once they are available.
  
 
== Format ==
 
== Format ==
  
The NSC will be paired using [[tsh]] along the lines of past events, including Gibsonization on spread.
+
The NSC will be paired using [[tsh]] along the lines of past events, including Gibsonization on spread. However, for the first time this year, each division will finish with play-offs among the top 8 players in the division after round 21. 
 
After an initial phase of fixed pairings based on pre-event ratings,
 
After an initial phase of fixed pairings based on pre-event ratings,
 
the top contenders are paired with each other, and everyone else is paired Swiss.
 
the top contenders are paired with each other, and everyone else is paired Swiss.
Line 506: Line 318:
 
with one repeat.
 
with one repeat.
  
The maximum number of contenders is 12 in Rounds 1-28, 8 in Round 29, 4 in Round 30 and 2 in Round 31.
+
The maximum number of contenders is 12 in Rounds 1-21.  Non-leaders are paired Swiss.
The contenders are further divided into a subgroup of leaders and non-leaders, if this can be done without
+
 
increasing the number of required repeats while maintaining at least four players among the leaders.  
+
On Tuesday morning, the top 8 players in the division will play a bracketed, best of 4 match. On Tuesday afternoon, the top 4 will play a bracketed, best of 4 match, while the next 4 play a consolation bracket.  On Wednesday, the top 2 will play a best of 5 match, while the next 6 will play a consolation bracket. These matches will determine the top 8 places in each division, with additional place prizes awarded based on placementAll players not in the bracket matches will continue with the 31 game event, as with past tournaments.
Leaders are paired by repeatedly having the top unpaired player play the lowest-ranked player that can
 
catch up to themNon-leaders are paired Swiss.
 
  
 
For further information about this pairing system, please refer to the section on ''Chew pairings'' in the
 
For further information about this pairing system, please refer to the section on ''Chew pairings'' in the
Line 517: Line 327:
 
== Staff ==
 
== Staff ==
  
; Organizer
+
TBA
: [[Chris Cree]]
 
; Director
 
: [[Dallas Johnson]]
 
; Assistant to the Director
 
: Sue Grogan-Johnson
 
; Master of Ceremonies
 
: [[Alan Stern]]
 
; Activity Directors
 
: [[Alice Ching-Chew]] - on-site
 
: [[Robin Gates]] - pre-planning
 
; Division leaders
 
: Division 1: [[John Robertson]]
 
: Division 2: [[Bryan Pepper]]
 
: Division 3: [[Dan Stock]]
 
: Division 4: [[Arthur Moore]]
 
: Collins: [[Kieran OConnor|Kieran O'Connor]]
 
; Division assistants
 
: Division 1: [[Kathleen Watson|Kate Watson]]
 
: Division 2: [[Shelley Ubeika]]
 
: Division 3: [[Rebecca Soble]]
 
: Division 4: [[Diane Moore]]
 
: Collins: [[Joey Krafchick]]
 
; Webmaster
 
: [[John Chew]]
 
; Data Entry
 
: Division 1: [[Tim Crotty]]
 
: Division 2/CSW: [[Reese Daniel]]
 
: Division 3/4: [[Katie Bernardina]]
 
; Internet reporter
 
: [[Sherrie Saint John]]
 
; Internet photographer
 
: [[Patty Hocker]]
 
; Annotators
 
: [[Lisa Kessler]]
 
: [[Pete Zeigler]]
 
  
 
== Other Volunteers ==
 
== Other Volunteers ==
  
=== Thursday, August 7 ===
+
=== Thursday, July 30 ===
  
 
Volunteers are needed to help prepare the playing room for the tournament.
 
Volunteers are needed to help prepare the playing room for the tournament.
* Mark Przybyszewski
+
*  
* Tina Cur
+
*  
 
*  
 
*  
 
*  
 
*  
Line 566: Line 341:
 
*
 
*
  
=== Friday, August 8 ===
+
=== Friday, July 31 ===
  
 
Volunteers are needed to help with registration and check-in.
 
Volunteers are needed to help with registration and check-in.
  
 
10:00 A.M.-12:30 P.M.
 
10:00 A.M.-12:30 P.M.
* Pat Nahaczewski
+
*  
* Ginger White
+
*  
* Susan Lichtblau
+
*  
 
12:30 P.M.-3:00 P.M.
 
12:30 P.M.-3:00 P.M.
* Denise Mahnken
+
*  
* Mary Rhoades
+
*  
* Betty Cornelison
+
*  
* Ida Scaglione
 
 
3:00 P.M.-5:30 P.M.
 
3:00 P.M.-5:30 P.M.
* Mark Przybyszewski
+
*  
* Kay Faust
+
*  
* Joyce Stock
+
*  
 
5:30 P.M.-7:00 P.M.
 
5:30 P.M.-7:00 P.M.
* Lila Crotty
+
*  
* Mark Przybyszewski
+
*  
* Lilla Sinanan
+
*  
  
 
=== Saturday to Wednesday: Game Days ===
 
=== Saturday to Wednesday: Game Days ===
Line 594: Line 368:
 
We will need at least 10 laptops for adjudications. The laptops will need the latest version of ZYZZYVA. Please be sure the correct word list is in operation and disable your screensaver in the playing area during games.
 
We will need at least 10 laptops for adjudications. The laptops will need the latest version of ZYZZYVA. Please be sure the correct word list is in operation and disable your screensaver in the playing area during games.
  
* Mary Rhoades
+
*  
* Art Moore
+
*
* Diane Moore
+
*
* Kieran O'Connor
+
*
* Kieran O'Connor (additional)
+
*
* Cecilia Huber (Collins division)
+
*
* Rob Robinsky (Collins division)
+
*
* Dan Horowitz
+
*
* Diana Spiller
+
*
* Deborah Gaudier
+
*
* Joyce Stock
+
*
 
*
 
*
  
 
==== Clean and Pack ====
 
==== Clean and Pack ====
  
We need about 15 '''Clean and Pack''' volunteers to help collect and box NASPA tournament supplies to be shipped back to the storage facility after the awards ceremony on Wed., August 13, 2014.
+
We need about 15 '''Clean and Pack''' volunteers to help collect and box NASPA tournament supplies to be shipped back to the storage facility after the awards ceremony on Wed., August 5, 2015.
  
* Mark Przybyszewski
+
*  
* Kay Faust
+
*
* Joyce Stock
+
*
* Yukiko Loritz
 
* Linda Bianca
 
 
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
 +
*
 +
*
 +
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
Line 624: Line 399:
 
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
*
 
 
*
 
*
  

Revision as of 17:17, 6 January 2015

NOTE: THIS PAGE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION.  DO NOT RELY ON INFORMATION POSTED TO THIS PAGE UNTIL THIS MESSAGE HAS BEEN REMOVED.

The 2015 National SCRABBLE Championship will take place on August 1-5, 2015 at the Silver Legacy Resort and Reno Ballroom, 407 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89501. This webpage will be regularly as additional details became available.

Live Event Coverage

Live coverage of the event will be made available. Check back later for a link to the coverage.

Registration

Online registration will available from this page, and is projected to be available in late January/early February. A list of registered players will also be available on this website and on cross-tables.com. The rest of this section describes in detail the various terms and conditions of registration, most of which are also discussed on the registration form.

Registration will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2015, after which players will only be accepted if they do not make a division odd.

Eligibility

To play in the NSC, you must (1) be a NASPA member, and (2) have played in an officially sanctioned SCRABBLE tournament to earn an official tournament rating. If you live in the United States or Canada, that rating should be a NASPA rating; if you live elsewhere it may be a WESPA rating or other comparable national rating.

If you meet these criteria and prefer to play using the international Collins (CSW) lexicon, you may do so. If at least 20 players register in each of the two planned CSW divisions, players will compete separately in an open division and in one for players whose qualifying NASPA CSW rating (or equivalent as determined by the organizing committee) is less than 1400. If either division has fewer than 20 players registered as of July 22, 2015, the divisions will be automatically combined into a single division. The qualifying NASPA CSW rating is the highest tournament rating attained at the end of a NASPA CSW-rated tournament which finished during the period August 1, 2013 to July 22, 2015. (If you had a NASPA CSW rating prior to this period, but did not play during the period, your qualifying rating is that unchanged rating.) The CSW divisions will be NASPA and WESPA rated.

If not, then the TWL division(s), numbered 1–4, in which you may play depend on your rating as follows. If you do not have a NASPA rating, you must play in Division 1, the open division. If you do have a NASPA rating, then your division eligibility is based on a Qualification Rating (QR), which consists of the highest tournament rating attained at the end of any NASPA TWL-rated tournament (or segment of a split-rated tournament) which finished during the period August 1, 2013 to July 22, 2015. (If you have a rating, but do not play during this period, your QR is your unchanged current rating.) If your QR is 1800 or higher, you must play in Division 1. If it is in the range 1400–1799, you must play in Division 1 or 2. If it is in the range 1000–1399, you must play in Division 1, 2 or 3. If it is below 1000, you may play in any of the four divisions.

Player division assignments will be reviewed after July 22, 2015 to ensure that everyone is registered in the correct division. If the division in which you registered is not one in which your QR permits you to play, we will automatically move you up to the lowest permissible division.

Collins Division

If you are thinking about travelling from overseas to play in this event for the first time, please read our 2015 NSC for Overseas Visitors page.

Again this year, there will be at least one separate division of players using the Collins lexicon at the National Scrabble Championship. Provided that at least 20 players register for each division, two Collins divisions will be offered.

Your division eligibility is based on your Collins Qualifying Rating (CQR), which is determined in one of three ways, depending on your rating status.

  • If you have a NASPA Collins rating, then your CQR consists of the highest tournament rating attained at the end of any NASPA Collins-rated tournament (or segment of a split-rated tournament) which finished during the period August 1, 2013 to July 22, 2015. If you have a NASPA Collins rating, but do not play during this period, your CQR is your unchanged current rating.
  • If you do not have a NASPA Collins rating but do have a NASPA TWL rating, your CQR is your TWL QR as described in the previous section.
  • If you do not have any NASPA rating but do have a WESPA rating, your CQR is the most current WESPA rating available for you as of July 22, 2015.
  • If you do not have any NASPA or WESPA rating but do have a foreign national rating, you will be assigned an equivalent CQR by the organizing committee.

If you do not have any sort of rating at all, you must first obtain one at a regular tournament before competing in the Championship.

If your CQR is 1400 or higher, you must play in Division 1. If it is 1399 or below, you may play in Division 1 or 2. If fewer than 20 players register in either division, the two divisions will be automatically combined into a single Collins division.

The Collins division will be run using NASPA rules, except that the Collins lexicon will be used and the challenge penalty will be 5 points per word. The Collins division will be NASPA and WESPA rated.

Entry Fees

The base entry fee for all divisions is $160.

Youths, defined as those whose 18th birthday is after August 1, 2015, may pay $50 to play in any division.

The above fees will be increased by $50 after May 31, 2015. For example, a non-youth player signing up on June 1, 2015 would pay $210, while a youth would pay $100.

Players accepted after the close of registration on July 22, 2015 must pay a $75 late penalty. For example, a non-youth player signing up on July 23, 2015 would pay $285, while a youth would pay $175. Acceptance of registrants after July 22, 2015 is not guaranteed, and will generally only be permitted if it does not cause a division to be uneven.

Players not staying at the host hotel for the duration of the event must also pay a commuter/facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum). The commuter fee does not apply to those local to the Reno area. Verification of status as a hotel guest will be performed at registration/check-in and throughout the event. Players staying at the host hotel for only part of the event must pay the full commuter fee, and may then apply for a refund of $20 per day stayed at the host hotel (to a maximum of $100) after the conclusion of the event, by providing the Championship Committee with hotel confirmation number and dates of stay.

Fees payable are computed based on when (Eastern Time) funds are received in full. If you are not paying right away online at the moment when you register, please be sure to allow enough time for your mailed payment to reach us.

Division Changes

To change divisions after you have registered, please email the organizing committee at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org. Division changes are subject to the following conditions:

  • After registration closes on July 22, 2015, if your division change would increase the number of players who may potentially have to have byes (if you would make two divisions odd, or would make a larger division odd), you will be waitlisted until this is not the case.

If your rating rises above the limit for the division in which you registered, you will automatically be moved to the lowest division for which you qualify.

Refunds

If you paid your tournament fees by credit card, any credit owing to you will be issued to your card; otherwise, we will mail a check to your membership address as shown in your member profile. No refunds will be issued after the refund deadlines described below.

All refunds are subject to a cancellation fee of $15.

If you decide you need to cancel your registration, we will refund your entry fee (and commuter fee, if applicable), if you so request by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2015.

Conditions

Rules, Code and Terms/Conditions

By registering for the NSC, you agree to abide by the NASPA Tournament Rules and Code of Conduct, and agree to comply with the 2015 National SCRABBLE Championship Terms and Conditions. In particular, some games at this tournament, probably the highest Division 1 board without a Gibsonized player, will be annotated live. If you refuse to play a designated game with annotation, you will forfeit it, and may at the director’s discretion be assigned a spread penalty of −200 points.

Minor Release

A Minor Release and Consent Form will be required for all players under age 18 as of August 1, 2015, and may be downloaded and submitted in advance, or executed by a parent or guardian at registration.

Player Bulletin

Please read our Player Bulletin, and check it again for last-minute updates before you travel to the event.

Equipment Required

Participants in the 2015 National Scrabble Championship are responsible for bringing all equipment necessary to play in the tournament. If neither player in a game has equipment available for their game, a double forfeit may be imposed.

Changes

The Championship Committee reserves the right to modify the above to account for unforeseen special circumstances.

Hotel/Travel Information

Hotel Registration

The official event hotel is the Silver Legacy Resort at 407 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89501 (phone: 800-687-8733). An online registration link will be made available on this page soon. Tournament entrants are eligible for our special rate of $99/night on Friday-Saturday, and $69/night Sunday-Thursday (single or double occupancy; plus tax and $12/night in resort and facility fees) at the event hotel - use booking code NASPA15; those who live outside of the Reno area and do not either book a room at the host hotel or book a room within our group block at one of the other hotels listed below, will pay a $100 facility fee to contribute the cost of the venue space. The midweek rate will be available before the event from July 27-30, 2015. Late departures will also be accommodated at the group rate subject to availability, but the group rate is not available for the weekend following the event.

Hotel bookings at our group rate are subject to availability within our group rate block of rooms, and must be booked before July 1, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

The Silver Legacy is located down the block from the Reno Ballroom, where tournament play will be conducted. Many after-hours activities will be held in the Silver Legacy meeting rooms.

Hotel and Event Parking

The Silver Legacy offers free self and valet parking in covered garages.

Dining

Dining information will be posted later.

Sightseeing

Sightseeing information will be posted later.

Roommate Wanted

If you need a roommate and would like a listing here, please contact the Championship Committee and specify your requirements: male, female or either, smoking or nonsmoking, etc. We will put a listing in this section. If you already have a room, please include in your email what nights your room is reserved. You can list your email address or phone number. Several people successfully found roommates for the NSC this way.

IMPORTANT: When you get your roommate, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.

Ride Wanted

If you need a ride/rider to or from the tournament, and would like a listing here, please contact the Championship Committee and specify your requirements. You can list your email address or phone number.

IMPORTANT: When you get your ride/rider, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.

Airport Transport Information

Airport information will be posted later.

Buffalo Airport Shuttle

Airport shuttle information will be posted later.

Check-In

To play in the first round on Saturday morning, you must check in between 10:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. on Friday, July 31, 2015, at the NSC registration desk (location to be announced later). You may ask a friend to check in for you by proxy, if you cannot check in in person. If possible, please email us at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org to notify us in advance of proxy arrangements. If you check in by proxy, but do not show up to play, then neither you nor your proxy will be permitted to check in by proxy at future events. If you do not check in before the desk closes at 7:00 P.M., you may join the championship in progress as soon as it is convenient for the pairings staff to add you back in; this may not take place before Sunday morning. No refund will be issued to latecomers.

When you check in, you will be given an announcement sheet. This is to reduce the number of announcements that have to be made on Saturday morning, so that the event can get underway quickly. You are responsible for familiarizing yourself with the announcements and tournament schedule.

Schedule

This schedule for the 2015 National SCRABBLE Championship may be modified to add new events, or possibly to change room locations. Also, until about a month before the event, it should be considered an early draft, with only the times for registration and the main event to be set in stone. Once the event begins, please check this schedule for changes at the beginning of each day.

Friday, July 31, 2015

10:00 A.M.–7:00 P.M.
Registration
10:00 A.M.–11:30 P.M.
After hours room open
12:00 P.M.–4:00 P.M.
Early bird tournament, restricted to NSC Staff and other NASPA directors
4:30 P.M.–5:30 P.M.
Committee meeting for Division Leaders, Division Assistants, Auxiliary Staff
7:30 P.M.–10:00 P.M.
Opening Reception

Saturday, August 1, 2015

8:30 A.M.–8:55 A.M.
Set up for play
8:55 A.M.–9:10 A.M.
Announcements; Group Photos - School SCRABBLE/Youth Players
9:10 A.M.–1:15 P.M.
Rounds 1–4
1:15 P.M.–2:30 P.M.
Canadian Committee and Technology Committee lunch meetings
2:45 P.M.–2:55 P.M.
Set up for play
2:55 P.M.–3:05 P.M.
Announcements
3:05 P.M.–6:15 P.M.
Rounds 5–7
6:30 P.M.–10:00 P.M.
Advisory Board Dinner Meeting (TBA)
9:00 A.M.–11:30 P.M.
After hours room open
8:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.
Trivia Contest

Sunday, August 2, 2015

8:30 A.M.–8:55 A.M.
Set up for play
8:50 A.M.
Group Photos - Past NSC Champions/Division Winners
8:55 A.M.–9:10 A.M.
Announcements
9:10 A.M.–1:15 P.M.
Rounds 8–11
1:15 P.M.–2:30 P.M.
Club/Director Committee and Rules Committee lunch meetings
2:45 P.M.–2:55 P.M.
Set up for play
2:55 P.M.–3:05 P.M.
Announcements
3:05 P.M.–6:15 P.M.
Rounds 12–14
9:00 A.M.–11:30 P.M.
After hours room open
8:30 P.M.–11:30 P.M.
Evening Musicale

Monday, August 3, 2015

8:30 A.M.–8:55 A.M.
Set up for play
8:45 A.M.
Group Photo - NSC Staff
8:50 A.M.
Group Photo - Nevadans
8:55 A.M.–9:05 A.M.
Announcements
9:05 A.M.–1:15 P.M.
Rounds 15–18
1:15 P.M.–2:30 P.M.
Tournament Committee and International Committee lunch meetings
2:45 P.M.–2:55 P.M.
Set up for play
2:55 P.M.–3:05 P.M.
Announcements
3:05 P.M.–6:15 P.M.
Rounds 19–21
9:00 A.M.–11:30 P.M.
After hours room open
8:30 P.M.–10:00 P.M.
Town Hall meeting

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

8:30 A.M.–8:55 A.M.
Set up for play
8:50 A.M.
Group Photo - International Players
9:05 A.M.–1:15 P.M.
Rounds 22–25
1:15 P.M.–2:30 P.M.
Dictionary Committee lunch meeting
2:45 P.M.–2:55 P.M.
Set up for play
2:55 P.M.–3:05 P.M.
Announcements
3:05 P.M.–6:15 P.M.
Rounds 26–28
9:00 A.M.–11:30 P.M.
After hours room open
7:30 P.M.–11:00 P.M.
Tag-Team Tourney
8:00 P.M.–9:30 P.M.
Director meeting

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

8:30 A.M.–8:55 A.M.
Set up for play
8:55 A.M.–9:05 A.M.
Announcements
9:05 A.M.–12:30 P.M.
Rounds 29–31
1:30 P.M.–2:30 P.M.
Prize Ceremony
3:00 P.M.–7:00 P.M.
Tear Down

The Rose Award

Bob and Andi Schoenman, creators of Protiles, honor Rose Kreiswirth's memory. Rose was an expert Scrabble® player for over 30 years and cherished the game for its educational values. An accomplished player, Rose was as well known for her sense of fairness and her congeniality as she was for her competitiveness. The Rose Award will be awarded each year at the National SCRABBLE Championship to a female player who, in the opinion of the judges, best exemplifies the fierce competitiveness and compassion that we remember Rose for. Thank you, Bob and Andi Schoenman!

Other Donors

If you are interested in donating prizes to events at the championship, please email us at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org.

Sponsors

For information about sponsorship opportunities at the championship, please contact Chris Cree.

Prizes

Full details about cash prizes, and anticipated merchandise prizes, will be posted on the prize table once they are available.

Format

The NSC will be paired using tsh along the lines of past events, including Gibsonization on spread. However, for the first time this year, each division will finish with play-offs among the top 8 players in the division after round 21. After an initial phase of fixed pairings based on pre-event ratings, the top contenders are paired with each other, and everyone else is paired Swiss. These two groups, contenders and noncontenders, are paired with minimal repeats. For example, if there is no way to pair the contenders without at least one repeat, then they will be paired with one repeat.

The maximum number of contenders is 12 in Rounds 1-21. Non-leaders are paired Swiss.

On Tuesday morning, the top 8 players in the division will play a bracketed, best of 4 match. On Tuesday afternoon, the top 4 will play a bracketed, best of 4 match, while the next 4 play a consolation bracket. On Wednesday, the top 2 will play a best of 5 match, while the next 6 will play a consolation bracket. These matches will determine the top 8 places in each division, with additional place prizes awarded based on placement. All players not in the bracket matches will continue with the 31 game event, as with past tournaments.

For further information about this pairing system, please refer to the section on Chew pairings in the tsh documentation.

Staff

TBA

Other Volunteers

Thursday, July 30

Volunteers are needed to help prepare the playing room for the tournament.

Friday, July 31

Volunteers are needed to help with registration and check-in.

10:00 A.M.-12:30 P.M.

12:30 P.M.-3:00 P.M.

3:00 P.M.-5:30 P.M.

5:30 P.M.-7:00 P.M.

Saturday to Wednesday: Game Days

Laptops for Adjudication

We will need at least 10 laptops for adjudications. The laptops will need the latest version of ZYZZYVA. Please be sure the correct word list is in operation and disable your screensaver in the playing area during games.

Clean and Pack

We need about 15 Clean and Pack volunteers to help collect and box NASPA tournament supplies to be shipped back to the storage facility after the awards ceremony on Wed., August 5, 2015.

Unassigned Volunteers

Following is a list of those who have volunteered, but do not yet have a specific assignment:

Vendors

Only vendors of merchandise licensed by Hasbro will be provided with vendor space and permitted to display and/or sell products inside the tournament venue (which includes the playing room, after hours room, meeting rooms, and any other function rooms or prefunction space used by NASPA during the event). Licensed vendors are subject to prior approval by NASPA, at its sole and absolute discretion.

Other vendors who wish to sell products must do so at their own expense from their own rented space (hotel room, meeting room, etc.), subject to any applicable regulations. NASPA accepts no liability or responsibility for such vendors or their activities.

Further Information

This page will be updated as the event draws nearer. If you have urgent questions about the event, please email us at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org.