FM Nicholas Van Der Nat

I have been coaching for more than 20 years. I am a Fide Master and Fide Trainer.

I have trained players of all levels right up to GM. With players winning national titles and continental championships.

My specific skill set is helping players focus and establishing their thought process, and building a focused plan of improvement. Whether you are a beginner or more experienced player I can help you improve. I will assess your level and be able to build a specific training program around you goals and needs.

I am a Fide Master. I have won open events in the USA, won my national title 3 times and many other open tournaments. My peak uscf rating is 2476 and peak FIDE of 2367.
1st San Diego Open 2013
1st SA Closed 2000
1st SA Closed 2005
1st SA Closed 2009

My biggest passion is helping players improve and establish a path for improvement, with a structured training program built around the players goals and skill level.
Fide Trainer

I have a background as exercise specialist. I believe that one should try to be a well rounded person with a healthy mind, body and soul. The principals are proper exercise training program is similar to that of a chess training program. A time lines, goals and measurable tests to check progress.

I believe in assessing a players skill set and setting up a proper focused training program around the players goals and needs. Its important that the goals of a player are matched to the time available and the needs of the players.

I use the Socratic Method of teaching focusing on the player being able to use their skills in a game situation.
The beauty of chess is that all answers are in front of you the key is asking the right questions.