Chess Instructors
Paul Gagne | Paul has been a dedicated teacher and volunteer with CJCC. Paul runs the Bearspaw Chess School in the NW where he has taught numerous students and introduced them to the world of Chess. You can find Paul at the majority of our CJCC tournaments. Please check out his school at: https://bearspawjuniorchessclub.com/ |
Bijan Shafa | Bijan runs the Flying Minds Chess Club in the south of Calgary. Bijan is CJCC's current secretary and has put in many hours teaching kids, volunteering at tournaments and going out of his way to grow the chess community. From beginners to advance students, Flying Minds has a program for you! Check out their program at: https://www.flyingminds.ca/chess-club |
| National Master Patrick Tolentino Email: patricktolens7@gmail.com Phone: 403-397-0017 | Hi, my name is Patrick and I am a National Master with a current rating of 2238 (CFC). I have represented and played for Team Alberta in grades 1, 2, 3, 6, & 9 and my highest achievement was placing 3rd place in the Canadian Chess Challenge. I was also an instructor for the CJCC Sunday Chess School from 2017-2019 I am accepting students who are very new to chess, all the way to students who aim to become a strong club player. Coaching Philosophy: Understanding is the top priority for the student. Apart from learning key concepts and fundamentals for chess, reviewing the personal games of the student is one of the best ways to improve. I will place great efforts in simplifying specific ideas or mistakes that a student might find difficult to grasp and make them easier to digest. I encourage students to ask me the question "why?" which I am happily ready to clarify since my younger self probably would have asked those questions too! |
| Coach Felix | Coach Felix is one of CJCC’s Junior Directors. Felix is a strong chess player beating opponents above his level. He is also an award winning chess coach. Felix works with students on a one-on-one basis and does in person and online teaching. For more info please email chesscjcc@gmail.com (Coach Felix is currently full for fall and winter. Spots available for summer) |
| Coach April | Coach April is passionate about teaching new juniors chess. Coach April has played in over 155 Chess Tournaments and is currently the 7th highest rated girl in her age group in Canada. April has participated in many international tournaments and has recently represented Canada in the World Schools Chess Championship. For more info please email chesscjcc@gmail.com |
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