The Wollongong Order of Really Dedicated Scrabblers (WORDS) are seeking new members to enjoy the mental and social benefits of the popular pastime.

During the not-for-profit group’s 20-plus years it has produced a number of state and national representatives.

These include Kiama’s Graeme Lock Lee and Kitty-Jean Laginha, who has twice competed in the World Youth Scrabble Championships.

The group also hosted the WORDS Summer Tournament, a round robin tournament for players throughout the state at Collegians, Wollongong last Saturday.

However, co-founding member and tournament director Rene Chelton said beginners were welcome to join the group.

“You get a real range of people, from doctors and university professors to taxi drivers and housewives,” she said.

“You wouldn’t know what they do (while playing) - it’s all about the game.”

Mrs Chelton, who is also the treasurer of Scrabble NSW, said the group currently had about 24 members of all ages from throughout the Illawarra, but were seeking more.

She recommended beginners attend their casual group on Fridays a few times to get a feel for the rules before moving to the competition nights on Mondays.

The competition nights feature a handicap system.

“Scrabble seems to be getting more popular,” Mrs Chelton said.

“A lot of people play online and that’s fine, but it’s different playing with people, which is more fun.

“I think people are beginning to understand the need to exercise their brain as well as their body to keep healthy.”

Mrs Chelton described WORDS as a “happy group” and if prospective members had any issues with transport to attend games, they would do their best to accommodate them.

The Monday competition nights take place from 7pm at Collegians, Wollongong, while the Friday casual group meets at Collegians, Balgownie from 1pm.

For more information, please phone 4272 2278.