A New/Old Way To Connect with Students: Backgammon

 “An ancient game can help teens prepare for college

What if there were a board game that could help teens develop their cognitive skills, build their confidence, and hone their social skills? Good news! There is, and it’s not chess.

It’s Backgammon, a game as old as time that is still relevant in an age dominated by screens and digital interactions.

In Backgammon, two players use strategy and logic – along with a little bit of luck – to “bear off” all their checkers from the board before their opponent. It’s fun, it’s social and it’s a great way to meet new people. In Backgammon circles, new players of all skill levels are always welcome.

As you can tell, I’m a Backgammon enthusiast from way back, and the game is having a moment, especially among younger people seeking new modes of social connection. In New York and San Diego, Backgammon clubs and game nights are becoming fashionable social activities. Some high schools have started Backgammon clubs as well.

Initially, in 2026, I and some partners are launching eight Backgammon clubs in Chicagoland under the banner of the Chicago Backgammon League. In addition, we will be working with the U.S. Backgammon Federation (USBGF) to recruit educators and high school counselors who know the game to help students prepare for college.

If you have played Backgammon, you are familiar with the appeal and how it can foster critical thinking and social connections. Engaging in real-world activities and problem-solving can also improve a teen’s attention span, something that is often in short supply thanks to the TikTok-ification of our culture.

The program being launched in the Midwest will be offered every Saturday. We are planning to go national next. By providing an engaging, interactive, and mentally stimulating alternative to screen time, this initiative will help teens build the confidence and connection necessary to thrive in a college environment and beyond.

Backgammon has been around for 5,000 years, so it has long-standing appeal and staying power. Teens, whether or not college is in their future, deserve the opportunity to give it a try.

If you are a high school counselor who would like to be part of this unique initiative, get in touch atJackSchacht@ChicagoBackgammonLeague.com. Our organization, along with the USBGF, will also be happy to support the establishment of high school clubs anywhere in the country.”

Why Backgammon Is Poised to Be Chicago’s Ultimate Social Scene

Backgammon is enjoying a cultural renaissance, offering the perfect analog antidote to modern screen fatigue and digital isolation. A simple yet strategically deep game, it’s attracting a new generation seeking authentic, offline connections.

This momentum is set to peak in 2026 with the highly anticipated launch of the Chicago Backgammon League, featuring 12 new clubs across the city—an initiative shaping up to be Chicago’s definitive social hub.
 

The New Rules of Socializing: Screen-Free Chic

The appeal of backgammon lies in its balance: it’s quick to learn, yet endlessly engaging to play. The game’s current moment is driven by a desire for genuine interaction. Tired of endless scrolling and awkward small talk, younger generations are choosing social board games and club nights for stylish, tactile entertainment.

Major publications have clocked the trend:

• Vogue recently highlighted New York’s “game-night” scene as the new chic social plan, where chess, mahjong, and backgammon replace traditional nightlife. These games foster conversation and provide a refreshingly screen-free environment.
• Air Mail reports on dating-app burnout leading to a pivot toward meeting people organically. Playful competition in low-pressure settings, like backgammon clubs, makes mingling easy and fun.
• The New York Times notes that 20- and 30-somethings are joining game clubs to build community and ease isolation—proof that a physical, tabletop ritual beats another night staring at a phone.

This is exactly why backgammon fits the moment. Rounds are fast, the vibe is social, and the board acts as a low-pressure icebreaker, whether you’re sharing a drink before dinner or hosting a night in.

 

The Chicago Backgammon League: The Future of Urban Socializing

The excitement surrounding backgammon as a social catalyst is reaching a fever pitch in the Midwest. The launch of the Chicago Backgammon League in 2026, opening 12 sophisticated new venues, promises to cement the game’s status as the city’s ultimate social destination.

These clubs won’t just be places to play; they will be curated environments designed for connection. The league is poised to offer a sophisticated alternative to the typical bar scene, providing a structured yet relaxed atmosphere that encourages interaction and community building. This city-wide initiative will become the prime location for Chicagoans looking to blend sophistication with connection in a vibrant new social ecosystem.

 

The Social Side of Strategy: Why Portable Backgammon Still Wins

Unlike more time-intensive strategy games, backgammon moves fast. Rounds can last just a few minutes, allowing lively conversation to flow freely around the board. There is a playful energy to it: competitive without being cutthroat, clever without being intimidating.

Backgammon has earned its title as one of the best games for entertaining, and the best part is its portability. Beautifully designed boards serve as both a game and a stylish accessory, fitting easily into any social scenario and instantly elevating the atmosphere. It’s an elegant, enduring classic that perfectly meets the modern demand for authentic engagement.

Beyond the Board: Why Joining the Chicago Backgammon League is the Ultimate City Move

 

If you’ve been wandering through the Windy City looking for a hobby that combines the intensity of a high-stakes poker game with the social warmth of a local neighborhood pub, your search ends here.

While many people are stuck staring at screens, a growing community in Chicago is rediscovering the tactical "clack" of checkers and the thrill of a doubling cube. If you’ve ever Googled "backgammon near me" or wondered where to play backgammon in Chicago, you aren't just looking for a game—you're looking for the Chicago Backgammon League.

Here is everything you need to know about joining the league in 2026 and why it’s the best investment you’ll make in your social life this year.

More Than a Game: The Chicago Backgammon Experience

Backgammon is one of the world’s oldest games, but in Chicago, it’s getting a modern, high-energy makeover. Led by founders Jack Schacht and Jill Murphy—veterans who helped shape the city’s backgammon scene in the 70s—the league is currently launching dozens of clubs across the city, from Rogers Park to the suburbs.

Why join the league now?

• The "Founding Member" Perk: Right now, you can secure an annual membership at a special introductory rate of $95 (a significant drop from the regular $195 price).

• No Guest Fees: Members bypass the $10 guest fee at all club locations. Whether you’re playing in a themed tournament or a casual Tuesday night chouette, you walk in like you own the place.

• A "Gold Standard" Environment: These aren't just random meetups. Under Executive Director Carissa Beaman and regional directors like Jean Shacht and Romana Fedkiw, the league offers professionally managed environments where fair play and camaraderie are the priority.

Elevate Your Strategy (and Your Network)

One of the most unique aspects of the Chicago Backgammon League is its focus on the "Game for Business." Many members are local entrepreneurs and professionals who recognize that backgammon is a masterclass in risk assessment and decision-making under pressure.

When you join the league, you aren't just playing for masterpoints; you’re networking with people who understand how to pivot when the "dice" of life don't go their way.

What’s Coming in 2026?

The 2026 season is shaping up to be legendary. Here’s a glimpse of what members have to look forward to:

1. The 2026 Chicago Open: Taking place in May at the Hyatt Centric O'Hare, this is a massive event on the American Backgammon Tour (ABT) featuring world-class players like Michihito "Michy" Kageyama.

2. Backgammon Cruises: Yes, you read that right. The league organizes an annual cruise where you can play on the open water.

3. Local Neighborhood Clubs: With a goal of 12 clubs across the metro area, you’re never far from a match.

Ready to Roll?

Whether you are a beginner looking for free lessons or a "shark" ready for the next ABT tournament, there is a seat waiting for you. Don't just play online—come feel the weight of the checkers and the energy of the Chicago community.

Join the movement today at ChicagoBackgammon.com/join-the-league and let’s see what the dice have in store for you.