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Instructors

This list of coaches is a courtesy. The Utah Chess Association does not recommend a specific coach and has not screened them. Your arrangement is with that coach.

NamePhoneEmailInformation
Mario Homer+13852229647mariorhomer@gmail.comI am a physics student at the University of Utah. I have experience with teaching physics, math, English, and chess. I was the 2024 state amateur champion, and have competed in the state championship numerous times. I am the president of the University Chess Club at the University of Utah, and have competed on the University chess team at the pan American intercollegiate championship and intermountain collegiate championship multiple times. Feel free to contact me by phone or email to inquire about lessons (I am also available for math and physics tutoring).
Ujan Ray408-809-6146ujanray07@gmail.comI started playing chess in 2013 and reached a rating of 2000 in 2023. I won the 2026 Utah G60 Championship, and 2022 Igor Ivanov Memorial. I am a student at the University of Utah, and play for the university team. I also tutor high school math. I offer lessons for all skill levels in Salt Lake and Utah County. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Powell Walker602-989-5228pw.chesslessons@gmail.comPowell Walker is a lifelong chess enthusiast and experienced coach with a deep passion for teaching and mentoring students of all ages. A United States Chess Federation Candidate Master, Powell began playing chess at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the nation’s top youth players. From age 11 to 20, he was consistently ranked among the top 100 players in the U.S. and achieved one of his proudest milestones at age 14 by winning the 2016 International Youth Chess Championship. He is also a multiple-time Arizona High School State Champion. Powell currently serves as the chess instructor at The Waterford School in Sandy, Utah, where he teaches weekly classes to students in grades 1 through 5. He also offers private chess lessons in both Salt Lake County and Utah County, working with students of all skill levels and ages—from complete beginners to skilled tournament players. If you are interested in private coaching or would like more information, feel free to email or call/text Powell Walker at 602-989-5228 or pw.chesslessons@gmail.com
Ben Watanabe801-9791167Hookedonchess@gmail.com1hr: $48 Passionate about teaching chess to any age, from kids to grandparents. I have been coaching for years and will enrich your understanding from a unique perspective on the field. My curriculum is focused on key foundational pillars, no abstract ideas, you will clearly interpret the chess board. I am a FIDE certified chess coach, and active tournament director around the valley. Former winner for Utah State elementary championship, Utah state high school championship, and represented Utah at the Barber national tournament of champions. Together we will develop a foundation that will serve you for the rest of your life, regardless of whether you are playing for enjoyment or to win tournaments.
Mark Abercrombie801-573-9045rathemon@gmail.comGood chess players don't always make the best chess teachers. I am not the greatest player (rated around 1500 USCF) but I AM a licensed teacher in Utah (which means the state does a background check on me every 5 years). This means that I regularly plan lessons and organize how to present my curriculum in a meaningful, memorable, and fun way. I have planned a curriculum of how chess should be taught which you won't find anywhere else. My lessons are intended for absolute beginners up to players around my own strength.
Stuart Graham801-898-4991whereisyourmind@aol.comPrivate and group lessons for adults and children. Available in Salt Lake County.
Brad Knutson(801) 735-6442BorisSpasstic@gmail.comI love to teach chess! I offer lessons for all ages and skill levels throughout Utah County. I started playing competitively in 2005. I received private instruction from the late GM Igor Ivanov. I placed 1st in the Utah Amateur Championship in 2007 and 2nd in the National Class Championships, Class D in 2007. Please feel free to call or email me with any questions. Thanks!
GM Rashad Babaevrashad.babaev@yahoo.comhttp://rashadbabaev.com/
Michael Munafokids4chess@gmail.comSchedule a FREE 30-minute trial lesson now at calendly.com/kids4chess. Accepting dedicated students only! My students consistently show remarkable improvement! I craft specific, personalized lesson plans. My chess experience includes serving as BYU Chess president, teaching at chess camps, Boy Scouts of America chess merit badge counselor, numerous 4H and afterschool programs, and the Colorado Chess Association's board. I am rated around 2300 on chess.com. I host remote lessons, and include post-lesson email reports with assignments and lesson recaps. Contact me at kids4chess@gmail.com.
Mike Kruse St. George Area435-703-8001redrookschess@gmail.comScholastic (and some adult) chess lessons.* In 1998 Battled Kasparov for 32 moves* 2011 South Carolina State Champion (Reserve Section)* 11th place at 2012 National Open (U 1400 section)* Co-taught with GM Ziatdinov in Phoenix* Taught thousands of students and numerous state scholastic champions for 14 years in Georgia, Utah, AZ, South Carolina.* Trained by National Champion/IM Michael Brooks