Most students lose because they rush, panic, or lose focus after a mistake.
How to think clearly under pressure
Fewer blunders and rushed decisions
Better focus and confidence during games
Practical training built around your actual weaknesses
Every student starts with an evaluation.
We review games, identify the habits that are costing points, and build a clear training plan based on the player’s current level and goals.
Coaching is practical and personal.
Not random puzzles. Not memorizing lines without context.
Evaluation
A one-time 90-minute session to assess playing strength, thinking habits, and training needs.
Training Plan
You receive a written plan with specific priorities, not generic advice.
Ongoing Coaching
Weekly sessions focus on decision-making, calculation, game review, and handling pressure.
I coach players using a simple framework that improves both chess decisions and emotional control during games.
The PLAY Framework
P—Plan
Know what you’re trying to do.
L—Look
See what your opponent is threatening and what is actually happening on the board.
A—Act
Choose and play with purpose.
Y—Yourself
Stay calm, reset after mistakes, and manage your emotions under pressure.
Private coaching begins with a one-time 90-minute evaluation. This gives families a clear starting point before committing to ongoing lessons.
What’s included:
Review of recent games
Skill and thinking-process assessment
Identification of recurring mistakes
Written training recommendations
Discussion of next-step coaching options
Evaluation: $99 (one-time)
Ongoing coaching is discussed after the evaluation.
Who is private coaching for?
Private coaching is best for players who already know the rules and want more structure, better results, and stronger tournament habits.
Do you work with complete beginners?
Yes. I work with complete beginners and make learning clear, structured, and enjoyable.
Are lessons in person or online?
Both options are available, depending on schedule and location.
How often do students meet?
Most students meet weekly, but coaching plans can vary based on goals and schedule.
What does the evaluation include?
Game review, skill assessment, and a written training plan with next-step recommendations.
How quickly will we hear back?
Usually within 24 hours.
Tony Rich, FIDE Instructor
FIDE is the international governing body of chess.
The FIDE Instructor title recognizes coaches who meet global training standards.
Combined with 20+ years of tournament experience, this means students learn from someone who understands both improvement and competition.
My coaching focuses on:
Clear thinking during games
Confidence after mistakes
Strong fundamentals
Better tournament habits
Personalized next steps for each student