I discovered chess at 9, earned 3rd place in a national championship by 12, and launched My Board Game NY at 13. I built this coaching program to give younger players the structured training I wished I had earlier, with small groups, clear goals, and real tournament focus.
Parents see a committed competitor guiding their child, and students see someone close to their age proving serious results are possible.
I train under one of the strongest chess teachers in New York, and I represent a school that regularly finishes between 1st and 3rd in national scholastic events.
Every lesson I teach comes from methods that helped me place 3rd nationally for 7th graders in Washington State. I turn that experience into simple, step‑by‑step plans that help students avoid common mistakes and build steady rating gains.
I design every class to feel focused, friendly, and clearly structured, especially for players up to 1400 USCF. Small groups of up to four students keep coaching personal, so each player gets specific feedback and knows exactly what to practice next.
My goal is that families see visible progress in tournament results and confidence, while students enjoy learning strategy alongside someone who is actively competing too.
I lead as an active competitor, modeling disciplined study and tournament focus.
I train directly with a top New York coach, then translate methods clearly.
I keep groups small and pricing competitive, so consistent progress stays realistic.
My name is Alexander Durmus, and I teach with the mindset of an active tournament player. I have played chess for over four years, competed in regional and national scholastic events, and earned 3rd place nationally for 7th graders in Washington State along with my school teammates.
I continually train under one of New York's strongest coaches, so every lesson I share comes from proven methods, not guesswork. I enjoy working with beginners who are learning the pieces for the first time and with developing players who already compete but need a clear plan to improve.
My students benefit from detailed game analysis, practical opening ideas, and endgame patterns that actually show up in their games. I aim to make each session focused, positive, and actionable, so families see real progress instead of random practice.