FORT WORTH, Texas (April 29, 2026) — The
American Mahjong Ranking (AMR) Authority announced today the launch of the first official worldwide ranking system for American Mahjong, debuting with a comprehensive mobile app available for
download on iOS. The platform provides a unified framework for ranked play, connecting players, clubs, leagues, instructors, and facilities through a standardized system of competition.
Designed to professionalize and organize the rapidly growing American Mahjong community, AMR Authority digitizes the traditional tabletop experience while strictly adhering to the official rules and card standards created by the
National Mah Jongg League (NMJL). The system fills a significant gap in the industry, offering the estimated 750,000 American Mahjong players a consistent, trusted method to track skill levels and compete fairly.
The AMR Authority app serves as the central hub for this new ecosystem. It allows players to input scores from real-life games, which are then verified by two additional players at the table to ensure accuracy. This verification process feeds into an algorithm inspired by Elo-style ranking models used in tennis and pickleball, generating real-time rankings and leaderboards.
AMR Authority was co-founded by Amanda Wolsey and Bethany Factor, two Fort Worth-based female entrepreneurs and passionate advocates for the American Mahjong community. Wolsey, a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and former elementary school teacher turned Mahjong consultant, has taught tens of thousands of people how to play and is recognized for her community-building approach. Factor is a graduate of Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and multi-faceted entrepreneur and operations executive. In 2024, Factor and Wolsey co-founded The Mahj Clubhouse, which has grown to become Fort Worth’s premier Mahjong social club for players of all levels. Driven by a shared vision to connect players and elevate Mahjong to new heights, they created the AMR Authority platform to bring structure, community, and growth to the game.
“AMR Authority brings the best of both worlds – it is digitizing the competitive side of Mahjong while preserving the social and tactile traditions that make the game special,” said Wolsey. “By integrating the structured ranking systems found in sports like tennis and pickleball, we are building the lasting framework Mahjong needs to evolve into a modern competitive powerhouse while staying true to its roots.”
Key features of the AMR Authority app include:
- Verified Score Tracking: A secure system for recording match results and building a verified player history.
- Event and Club Management: Tools for discovering local games, connecting with clubs, and managing tournaments.
- Universal Compatibility: Support for various play styles, including casual games, NMJL official rules, and the specialized AMR tournament format.
- Performance Analytics: Personal statistics that track win rates and experience progression.
Beyond individual player tracking, the platform also introduces "AMR Master Instructor," a certification for instructors, and "AMR Facilities," designated venues that meet specific standards for fair play and professional environments. This infrastructure aims to support the longevity of the game by providing a clear pathway for players to level up and compete with confidence.
AMR Authority is actively building connections across the Mahjong landscape through collaborations with clubs, instructors, and organizations nationwide. Looking ahead, AMR plans to introduce exclusive member product discounts, online Mahjong play, and in-app booking for lessons and events. The organization also aims to increase the number of AMR-hosted tournaments annually and spotlight Master Instructors, events, and players as part of ongoing efforts to support the community and encourage the game’s continued growth.
The AMR Authority app is available for free download on the
Apple App Store and coming soon to Google Play. An optional AMR+ subscription is available for $4.99 per month, offering an ad-free experience and exclusive benefits.
ABOUT AMERICAN MAHJONG RANKING (AMR) AUTHORITY
The American Mahjong Ranking (AMR) Authority is the official American Mahjong ranking system, designed to bring structure, fairness, and connectivity to the Mahjong community. Through its app, players can track wins and losses, discover local events, and stay connected with the game they love. AMR Authority also certifies instructors as AMR Master Instructor and designates AMR Facilities to ensure standardized gameplay and adherence to National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) rules. With a focus on fostering community and preserving Mahjong's traditions, AMR Authority provides a lasting framework for players, instructors, and organizers worldwide. For more information,
download the app or visit AMR Authority:
