Brian Li

What do you think makes you a good coach?

I have strong leadership and communication skills refined through experience, but more importantly, I bring genuine heart and care toward the kids I coach. I strive to find ways to engage, support, and improve each child’s individual journey, adapting my approach and building a meaningful relationship with each student.
I truly believe that effective coaching stems from trust.

What are your key strengths?

• Patience and kindness

• Creating a fun and engaging atmosphere

• A real willingness to help and care

• Strong communication skills

Why do you love chess?

I love chess because it blends logic and creativity—a true reflection of my personality. What makes chess so special is that its principles and patterns can be applied in everyday life, making it more than just a game. It becomes a tool for thinking, strategy, and growth.

When/how did you first learn to play?

I started playing chess during elementary school, attending weekly lessons every weekend. It quickly became something I looked forward to and enjoyed learning more about.

Why do you enjoy working with kids?

I am extremely passionate about helping and supporting youth. Being relatively young myself, I feel a strong relatability to the children I work with. I’m fascinated by how young minds work and am genuinely motivated to be part of their development and journey.

What are your main chess achievements?

While I play chess casually for fun, I am confident and qualified enough to teach younger children the fundamentals of the game and help foster their enthusiasm for it.

How do you think chess helps kids?

I believe the benefits of chess vary for each individual:

• For some, it helps with cognitive development and mental discipline.

• For others, it may become a rewarding hobby.

• And for a few, it might even offer an emotional escape or safe space in difficult circumstances.

Chess is a game that can be deeply personal and transformative, depending on what the child needs most.