Getting started
What to expect at your first Compete tournament
First tournaments are disorienting in the best way. Here is a practical guide to what actually happens so you can focus on playing.
If you have never played in a formally organised tournament, the format can feel unfamiliar at first. Here is what the day actually looks like so there are no surprises.
Before you arrive
Registration happens through the Compete app before the event. Fixtures — who plays whom, in what order — are released ahead of the event. Check the app the night before and the morning of. Know your first match time and who you are playing.
Arrival and check-in
Arrive at least 15–20 minutes before your first match. Find the tournament director and confirm your check-in. Warm up. Look at the fixtures board or app to see the full draw.
The format
Each tournament is either Knockout (single elimination — lose once and you are out) or Round Robin (you play every opponent in your group, regardless of results). The format is shown on the tournament page before you register, so you know in advance.
During the event
A Compete umpire or tournament director is present throughout. Scores are recorded officially by them — not on your phone, not informally agreed between players. Fixtures and standings update in the app in real time as matches complete.
Be ready for consecutive matches. Bring water, a spare shirt, and something to eat between rounds. Tournaments can run for several hours depending on the format and field size.
Results and rating
Once a match result is confirmed by the official, it is final. After the event concludes, results feed into the rating system and your skill rating updates. Your updated rating and match history appear on your player profile and the public leaderboard.
Ready to enter? Browse upcoming tournaments and register through the app.