Aryan Kallychurn

What makes you a good coach?

I believe my greatest strength as a coach is my ability to connect with kids in a way that keeps learning both fun and meaningful. I’ve always enjoyed working with young minds—whether it was coaching football across various age groups or helping university students understand complex computer science concepts.

Chess coaching allows me to combine both of these passions: education and strategic thinking.

What are your key strengths?

What sets me apart is my ability to adapt my coaching approach to each child’s unique level and personality. I recognize that every student learns differently, and I strive to create an environment where they feel:

• Confident

• Supported

• Motivated to think strategically

My goal isn’t just to teach chess—it's to help children develop:

• Critical thinking

• Resilience

• A genuine love for the game

Why do you love chess?

I love chess because it constantly challenges you to:

• Think deeper

• Stay patient

• Plan ahead

The game teaches that every move matters and carries future consequences. I also appreciate the variety—no two games are ever the same, which keeps it engaging and exciting every time I play.

When and how did you first learn to play?

My introduction to chess was a bit unusual—I actually fell in love with the chessboard itself before the game. I was drawn to the elegance and craftsmanship of a beautiful wooden board. That curiosity led me to explore the game online, and from there, my interest grew rapidly as I discovered the depth, creativity, and strategy behind every move.

What started as a simple fascination quickly turned into a lifelong passion.

Why do you enjoy working with kids?

Kids bring so much energy, curiosity, and honesty into everything they do. I find it incredibly rewarding to help young minds grow, and I especially love those “lightbulb moments” when something finally clicks.

I also take pride in being a positive role model—someone they can learn from and look up to.

What are your chess achievements?

While I don’t yet have major tournament achievements, I am:

• Committed to continuously improving my skills

• Working toward the goal of teaching more advanced classes

• Aiming to participate in tournaments in the near future

How does chess help kids?

Chess is a powerful tool for developing life skills beyond the board. It helps children:

• Think logically and solve problems

• Develop planning and decision-making abilities

• Build discipline, focus, and patience

• Gain confidence through challenges and personal growth

Chess provides a structured yet creative space for kids to learn, grow, and enjoy themselves.