About us

Founder Jack Schacht and his partner, Jill Murphy, who ran 20 Chicago area backgammon clubs when it was popular in the mid-seventies are once again leading the charge with plans to open a dozen clubs in several Chicago neighborhoods in the Spring of 2026.

Though the game itself is uniquely captivating, their clubs will be about much more than playing backgammon. They will also be an engaging social experience and an opportunity for people to meet and form new friendships in an atmosphere that is welcoming for all participants.

Many of the clubs will be located at venues that will attract young singles who are anxious to find a new way to meet other young people, while others will be located at venues that will attract older adults, many who are already playing Backgammon or who want to learn it.

From her own past-experience in teaching backgammon, Jill and her daughter, Theresa, who holds a PHD in Education, know that backgammon also captivates children and can be used to educate them in important life skills. These clubs will be managed by professionals who enjoy working with kids and understand how backgammon can be used as an effective and engaging teaching tool.

Because of their previous success they had in partnering with the American Cancer Society of Chicago in the past, the League will also partner with a nonprofit organization to host annual fundraising tournaments, as a way of giving back to their community.

Backgammon players at all levels are invited to contact us as we begin the process of identifying other backgammon enthusiasts who are interested in playing in our tournaments or helping us organize and run our clubs.