Personalized Chess Coaching
Unlock your potential with personalized chess coaching from seasoned experts at Pawn Island Academy.
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, our tailored sessions will help you master the game and achieve your goals. Join us and elevate your chess skills to new heights.
Online Coaching
Stay Sharp from Anywhere
Our online coaching sessions bring the power of personalized instruction straight to your screen. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or polishing up a near-master-level game, I’ll tailor each lesson to your strengths and weaknesses—no cookie-cutter approach here. I’ll guide you step-by-step toward new insights, improved tactics, and a more intuitive feel for the board. All from the comfort of your home.
Learn and improve from the comfort of your own home! I offer online sessions via Chess.com’s interactive Classroom, complete with video and audio for real-time discussions and move analysis.
Each lesson is tailored to your strengths and weaknesses, so we can focus on exactly what you need—be it tactics, opening study, or endgame technique. Plus, I’ll provide personalized homework to guide your independent practice between lessons.
This flexible format fits busy schedules and keeps your chess growth on track.
In-Person Coaching
Hands-On Guidance for Real-World Results
If you’re within a reasonable distance, let’s connect face-to-face. In-person sessions offer an immersive experience, where we can engage in live analysis, practice with physical boards and pieces, and develop a deeper rapport. With direct feedback and real-time adjustments, you’ll see tangible growth in your chess understanding. From honing your opening repertoire to mastering endgames, I’ll help you unlock your full potential—one well-placed move at a time.
For those who thrive in a face-to-face environment, I offer in-person coaching on a limited basis. My hands-on approach involves setting up positions on a real board to discuss critical ideas, nuances, and strategic planning.
Due to transportation issues, availability is restricted, but I’m happy to arrange sessions if our locations and schedules align. If you prefer the immediacy and interaction of an in-person lesson, please reach out early to reserve a spot.
Group Coaching
Learn Together, Grow Together
Want to learn chess alongside a partner, friend, or family member? My group coaching sessions are perfect for couples, parents with two children, or even small friend groups looking to split costs.
We’ll cover shared topics—like strategic fundamentals and common tactical motifs—while still giving individual attention to each participant’s needs. It’s an engaging, social way to learn, helping you strengthen not only your skills but also your connections with fellow learners.
Chess Bootcamps
Accelerate Your Skills with Intensive Training
Our Chess Bootcamps are an immersive deep-dive into the game, designed for players who crave rapid improvement. Across a set timeframe—whether it’s an intense weekend or spread out over months—you’ll tackle openings, middlegame strategy, tactical drills, and crucial endgame principles. Prepare for a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience, led by a proven competitor who understands how to push you to your limits and beyond.
Dive deep into chess with a focused, time-bound approach! Inspired by my scholastic curricula, these bootcamps turn novices into competitive players over a short period.
Through immersive lessons, structured practice games, and a “graduation” tournament, you’ll build confidence quickly. I combine fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and mindset coaching to accelerate progress.
If you enjoy a fast-paced environment with tangible results, a chess bootcamp might be the perfect fit.
Scholastic Coaching
Empowering the Next Generation of Thinkers
From after-school programs to varsity-level training, I specialize in developing chess talent among students of all ages. My scholastic coaching sessions help young minds build discipline, strategic thinking, and confidence—on and off the board. Whether you’re forming a new chess club or gearing up for statewide or national tournaments, I’ll bring tailored instruction and a passion for mentorship that inspires academic achievement and personal growth.
My approach blends structured lessons, puzzle warm-ups, and discussion of chess history to engage young minds. Whether you need a coach for a competitive team or an after-school club, I’m here to create a fun, enriching environment that encourages both learning and personal growth.
Contact MeDetailed Services
Explore Every Option for Your Best Game
Curious about individualized quarterly study plans, tournament prep, or specialized workshops? Need guidance on setting up a chess program at your school or workplace? Under Detailed Services, you’ll find all the extras that can make your chess journey complete. From one-time consultation calls to ongoing mentorship packages, we’ll customize a service plan that aligns perfectly with your goals, schedule, and ambitions.
Sometimes you need a specialized boost or want to explore a specific area of chess. I offer one-time lesson plans, full repertoire design, in-depth opening research, and more. My rate is $100/hr for new clients and $50/hr for current or former students.
These add-on services are ideal for players seeking comprehensive prep, from building a customized opening file to analyzing tournament games in detail. Let’s work together to fill any gaps in your chess education and help you compete with confidence.