Introduction: Why I Became a Chess Coach

Hi, I’m Abimbola Osunfuyi, a Nigerian FIDE Master, national chess champion, and Olympian. Chess has been a huge part of my life, but what truly drives me now is coaching. Over the years, I’ve seen how chess can transform not just players, but people. It’s not just about winning games—it’s about building confidence, sharpening minds, and teaching life skills that extend far beyond the board.

In this blog, I want to share how chess coaching has become my passion and how it’s helping me make a difference in the lives of my students. Whether you’re a parent looking for a meaningful activity for your child, an adult wanting to improve your strategic thinking, or someone curious about the power of chess, I hope this inspires you.

1. Building Confidence Through Chess

One of the most rewarding parts of being a chess coach is seeing my students grow in confidence. I remember working with a young boy named Tobi who was shy and hesitant at first. Through consistent practice and encouragement, he not only improved his game but also started speaking up more in school and taking on leadership roles.

Why It Matters: Chess teaches you to trust your decisions. Every move requires thought and conviction, and over time, this builds self-assurance. As a coach, I focus on creating a supportive environment where my students feel empowered to take risks and learn from their mistakes.

2. Teaching Strategy and Problem-Solving

Chess is often called the ultimate strategy game, and for good reason. Every game is a puzzle waiting to be solved. In my coaching sessions, I emphasize the importance of thinking ahead, anticipating challenges, and adapting to new situations. These skills don’t just apply to chess—they’re essential in school, work, and life.

A Real-Life Example: One of my adult students, a business owner, told me how chess helped him improve his decision-making at work. By learning to analyze complex situations and consider multiple outcomes, he became more effective in managing his team and growing his business.

3. Developing Patience and Focus

In a world of instant gratification, chess teaches the value of patience. I’ve seen students who started out impulsive and frustrated learn to slow down, think critically, and stay focused even under pressure. These are skills that benefit them in academics, sports, and beyond.

My Approach: I use timed exercises and mindfulness techniques to help my students stay calm and focused during games. Over time, they learn to apply this patience to other areas of their lives.

4. Fostering Resilience and Adaptability

Chess is full of ups and downs. One moment you’re winning, and the next, you’re fighting to stay in the game. I teach my students to embrace these challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.

A Lesson from My Own Journey: As a competitive player, I’ve faced my share of losses. But each setback taught me something valuable. Now, as a coach, I help my students develop the same resilience. Whether it’s a tough game or a difficult life situation, they learn to bounce back stronger.

5. Creating a Community of Learners

Chess is more than just an individual sport—it’s a community. Through my coaching programs, I’ve brought together players of all ages and backgrounds. They learn from each other, compete in friendly matches, and celebrate each other’s successes.

Why This Matters: In a world that often feels divided, chess is a universal language. It brings people together, fosters mutual respect, and creates lasting connections.

6. Preparing for Life’s Challenges

One of the most common questions I get from parents is, “How will chess help my child in the real world?” The answer is simple: chess prepares you for life. It teaches you to think critically, make decisions under pressure, and stay focused on your goals.

A Parent’s Perspective: A mother once told me how her son’s chess training helped him excel in math and science. The logical thinking and problem-solving skills he developed through chess translated directly to his academic performance.

Chess has given me so much—a career, a passion, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. As a chess coach, my goal is to share these benefits with as many people as possible. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, I believe chess can help you grow in ways you never imagined.