When did you start playing Chess? Why?
I suppose I could be considered a late-bloomer when it comes to chess. I started playing chess 3 years ago after watching the Queen’s Gambit on Netflix. I instantly fell in love with the game and have been obsessively playing ever since. As soon as I was able, I played in my first OTB (over the board) tournament in June 2021, the Colorado Chess Championship. To my surprise, I won my first tournament! The feeling was exhilarating and I haven’t stopped since.
What was your most memorable game?
My most memorable game was against none other than Chessmate’s founder, national master Zachary Bekkedahl. I’m the president of the Colorado State University chess club and we invited Zach to play a simul (simultaneous) with our chess club members. There were 20 lucky opponents that got an opportunity to play Zach, but I was the only one who managed to beat him!
What is your favorite piece?
My favorite piece is definitely the knight because of how unique it is. They are the trickiest piece in chess and the most interesting in terms of movement. It is the only piece that can jump over other pieces and it is the only piece that is depicted realistically rather than representatively.
Why do you like teaching?
I’ve seemed to enjoy teaching all my life. Anytime I’d learn a new skill or develop a new interest as a kid, I’d want all my friends and family to learn about it too. Even now, that passion hasn’t left me and I continue to love teaching, especially so with children because of their natural curiosity and love of learning. I find that imparting my knowledge onto others is incredibly gratifying and as anyone who has taught someone else can tell you, the spark in someone’s eyes when something they’ve been struggling with finally clicks into place, is simply one of the best feelings in the world.
What do you do besides Chess?
I’m a Colorado State University graduate, where I studied philosophy, mathematics, and Japanese language. I hope to continue to teaching chess and being as involved for as long as possible. Besides teaching and tutoring, I’m the president of the CSU chess club. Recently, I became a USCF-certified tournament director, so I run tournaments and events for the Fort Collins and CSU chess communities as well as coach chess here at Chessmates!
For leisure, I usually spend time with my girlfriend, friends, or family. I really enjoy Sci-fi and fantasy books, board games, and online games.
Book a Private Lesson:
How it works
Book a convenient time and pay. A confirmation email will be sent.
A second email will be sent from your instructor setting up a meeting place.
Meetings will be in Fort Collins public places like Libraries and coffee shops.
Small Print
You can book lessons up to 2 months in advance. Refunds are available with 24-hour notice.