Join the Excitement: Predict the 2026 Collegiate Chess League Playoffs!
How to Participate
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About the Collegiate Chess League (CCL)
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Excitement Builds for the Collegiate Chess League Spring 2026 Playoffs
As the chess pieces are set to clash, the Collegiate Chess League (CCL) Spring 2026 Season Playoffs are just around the corner, igniting a wave of anticipation among fans and players alike. With the reigning champions, Saint Louis University (SLU), looking to defend their title, and fierce competitors like University of Texas Dallas (UT Dallas) and University of Missouri (Mizzou) eager to claim victory, the stakes have never been higher.
A Championship Showdown
SLU, led by Grandmasters Viktor Gazik and Aryan Chopra, is on a quest for their seventh CCL championship. Their recent triumph over Mizzou secured them the top seed in the playoffs, showcasing their readiness to tackle any challenger. But UT Dallas, who narrowly lost to SLU in last season’s finals, is hungry for revenge and their first-ever CCL Championship. With a strong season under their belt, including victories over both Mizzou and SLU, they are poised to make a significant impact.
Mizzou, the last team to win a championship before SLU’s reign, is also a formidable contender. With GM Aryan Tari leading the charge, they recently clinched the US Championship at this year’s President’s Cup, proving they have the skills to reclaim their former glory.
Adding an international flair to the competition, the SRM Institute of Science and Technology from India has emerged as a powerhouse, winning the first three India College Chess Championships. With a lineup featuring Grandmasters Pranesh M, Srihari L R, and Vijayakumar Raahul, they are ready to challenge the traditional powerhouses of college chess.
Join the Action: Prediction Challenge
Fans can get in on the excitement by participating in the CCL Prediction Challenge, a tradition that began in the fall of 2021. By predicting the outcomes of the playoffs, participants have a chance to win a six-month Chess.com Diamond Membership in each of the 25 divisions.
To enter, simply fill out the prediction brackets by Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET. The more divisions you predict, the better your chances of winning! Winners will be notified via email in the first week of May.
How to Participate
- Fill Out the Brackets: Click here to access the prediction brackets.
- Make Your Predictions: Choose your favorites in as many divisions as you like.
- Watch the Playoffs: Enjoy the thrilling matches, knowing each victory brings you closer to winning a prize!
The Road Ahead
With 25 divisions in play, the CCL offers a unique opportunity for fans and players to engage with the sport. As the playoffs approach, all eyes will be on the teams as they battle for glory and the chance to etch their names in college chess history.
For more details on standings and results, visit the CCL events page.
As the chess community gears up for this thrilling playoff season, the question remains: Who will emerge victorious? Join the conversation and make your predictions today!