Jeremy Aquino

What Do You Think Makes You a Good Coach?

To me, being a good coach means understanding the student above all else. This requires a high level of empathy and insight, especially when teaching a complex game like chess. I have no trouble relating to the learning challenges students face, having experienced them myself. It can be difficult for young players to stick to the fundamentals, but I believe that paying close attention to even the smallest concerns students express can make a big difference in their development.

What Are Your Key Strengths?

My key strength is the ability to clearly articulate key concepts to a wide range of skill levels. In group settings where students are at different stages of learning, I can adjust the level of detail needed for each one. This skill gives me a deep understanding of a student’s pace and allows me to remain patient and adaptive, regardless of their level.

Why Do You Love Chess?

Chess is an underrated game that challenges players with difficulty and struggle — the perfect foundation for creative growth. Without obstacles, creativity has no reason to flourish. Chess teaches you to think ahead and to explore new strategies, lessons that translate directly to real-world situations. If one approach fails, chess shows us there's always another way to succeed — a valuable mindset for life.

When/How Did You First Learn to Play?

I first learned to play chess with my dad when we were bored at home. He taught me the rules and then invited his friends to play against me, just to see who I could or couldn’t beat. It became a fun and memorable way to bond and grow.

Why Do You Enjoy Working with Kids?

Kids, whether disciplined or mischievous, always bring with them a sense of innocence and curiosity. They’re like blank canvases, full of potential. I’ve found that students often mirror the passion of their coaches — if we show enthusiasm, they absorb it. Since children are the future, I believe it’s our responsibility to pass on anything positive we can — whether it’s chess, life lessons, or simply the joy of learning. Their high energy and endless curiosity make every session rewarding.

What Are Your Main Chess Achievements?

Currently, I don’t have any major competitive achievements as I stopped playing tournaments at a young age. However, I’ve recently rediscovered my love for chess and am excited to keep growing in both play and coaching.

How Do You Think Chess Helps Kids?

Chess teaches kids problem-solving, resilience, and strategic thinking. For young learners, understanding how to navigate multiple options — just like in life — is a vital skill. Personally, chess helped me see how making mistakes is part of learning. Much like a tough math problem, you need to be wrong many times before you get it right. That mindset builds confidence and adaptability in any field.