IM Vlad Larkin

What do you think makes you a good coach?

I have more than six years of experience coaching both online and in person. My key qualities as a chess coach are hard work, patience, and strong practical training skills. I’m highly committed to supporting my students’ improvement, and my main aim in every lesson is to help you play stronger chess.

What are your key strengths?

My key strengths include positional play, practical skills, clear and useful examples, and a structured training system.

Why do you love chess?

Chess has always been a lifelong passion for me. It feels like a different world—one where I can focus on what matters, think deeply about improvement, and feel genuine satisfaction. Chess helps me switch off from everyday life and brings me happiness.

When/how did you first learn to play?

My father and grandfather first introduced me to the beautiful game of chess. I was always very interested, and that interest only grew each year during my childhood. At the age of seven, I started attending a local chess club in my hometown and also joined an after-school chess group. That’s where my chess journey began.

Why do you enjoy working with kids?

Working with kids is one of my favourite activities. I’m always happy to share my knowledge and introduce this beautiful game to young enthusiasts.

What are your main chess achievements?

By age seven, I was attending chess classes after school, and at just 10 years old, I became a National Candidate Master of Ukraine. I achieved 3rd place at the Ukrainian Championship (U10 Boys) and represented my country at the World Youth Chess Championship 2014 in South Africa.

Throughout my youth career, I was a multiple medalist in Ukrainian Championships across the U12, U14, U16, and U18 sections—primarily in rapid and blitz. I won the Ukrainian National Championship (U14 Boys) in 2017, placed 5th at the European Chess Championship (U12 Boys) in Prague in 2016, and became a National Master of Sports in Ukraine in 2019.

In 2020, I officially received the FIDE International Master (IM) title. I achieved two GM norms in 2022 (Sweden) and have been a winner and medalist at many international events across Europe.