FM Božidar Iveković

I'm a FIDE Master from Zagreb, Croatia, with over two decades of competitive chess experience. I hold a Master's degree in Business Economics and have dedicated myself to both playing and teaching chess at the highest level. Whether you're looking to break through a rating plateau or develop a deeper understanding of the game, I bring the same focus and precision to coaching that took me to the top of Croatian chess.

My competitive career spans tournaments across Croatia, Europe, and the world. Highlights include:

5x Croatian Junior Champion across multiple age categories
12th place at the World U20 Championship (India, 2016)
2 International Master norms
Victory over GM Rasmus Svane (rated 2621) at the 2024 Mitropa Cup

I continue to compete actively in open tournaments, which means my understanding of modern chess theory and practical over-the-board pressure stays sharp — and directly benefits my students.

I have coached players of all levels, from complete beginners (ages 7–10) to competitive club players and juniors. Several of my students have gone on to win the Croatian Championship in their respective age categories, both boys and girls. My core focus is intermediate players (FIDE 1700–2100), though I adapt fully to wherever you are in your chess journey.

Beyond playing and coaching, I have been involved in the chess community in several other capacities. I have organised and led chess clubs and teams, which gave me a broader perspective on how players develop over time and what separates those who improve from those who plateau. I have also delivered lectures and workshops on chess, where I learned how to communicate complex ideas clearly to groups with different levels of understanding — a skill that directly shapes how I structure individual lessons today. Additionally, I have experience with online platforms and streaming, which means remote lessons are something I approach with the same comfort and preparation as in-person coaching.

Patience. Clarity. Structure. I break down complex positions into ideas anyone can understand, and I never rush the process. Progress built on strong foundations lasts — and that's exactly what I deliver.

My approach is mentorship-based. Lessons go beyond moves and openings — I guide students to develop independent thinking, pattern recognition, and strategic awareness. Each week, I assign targeted homework: puzzles, annotated games, and decision-making exercises tailored specifically to your weaknesses. Real improvement happens between sessions, through consistent, focused work. I provide the roadmap — you do the driving.