I spent 35 years in the high-tech industry as a high-level trainer and consultant, with hundreds of hours of coursework in the fields of study and learning technology.
My mom taught me to play when I was 5, and at age 14 I got serious about chess.
I started teaching after-school chess for K6 kids in 2013 and taught for numerous chess schools.
"In 2016, KidzToPros hired me as a coach for their after-school programs. In 2018, they brought me in as Chess Program Director to create a complete year's curriculum for their chess program. In addition, I created a complete training program based on my methods for the coaches. You can see KidzToPros' letter of recommendation on this site."
I have had a number of private students. You can see some of their recommendations on this site.
Style
I've been told by many of my students' parents that I have a very engaging teaching style that shows off my love for kids, chess, and talent for teaching. One of the employees of the above school had me work with her daughter as part of the training development project. She said at the end of the first session that she had never seen her daughter so completely engaged for 90 minutes for anything. You will see this in my testimonials.
Approach
I'm a true "fundamentalist". I believe the fundamentals and basics are the most powerful tools for success in chess (anything) and thus focus on them.
I employ what I call a "self-realization approach," challenging the student to find the answer themselves and using clues to help them reach that realization. This method ensures the kids always feel great about the learning process and are never put in uncomfortable situations.
The essence of my teaching revolves around a concept I call “board vision” – the ability to see where the pieces can go and what they can do. This skill is necessary for ANY success in chess.
You will find more insights into Coach Flyn on the “My Chess Journey” and “My Coaching” pages. (Both links open in new pages).