Experience Summary
My name is Zac.I own Great Chesspectations. I grew up playing chess. My father taught me how to play when I was 5 years old. Over the years I have played from East coast to West Coast. I was a United States Marine Corps Chess Champion for multiple years. Throughout the years I have developed time honored styles along with my own methods. I have even created and patented revolutionary new chess boards. I am an accomplished chess player with thousands of hours of playing and teaching experience. I am capable of teaching all ages and levels. I am respectful, friendly, motivated and outgoing.
Teaching Style
"Chess lessons" are usually just that, chess lessons. I think that there are more dynamics to teaching chess than just moving the pieces. Most chess lessons for beginners, start with an introduction to chess. I teach this way too, but everything I am able to teach starts with respect. Every person should understand and accept that they will not always win. They must also accept that they may not always play their best. They must also respect their opponent. So often chess "coaches" forget about these key elements and life lessons. Tradition and culture are important to me and my style of teaching. With these few elements, learning is fun and the teaching is effective.
Prime teaching focuses are:
1) Introduction to chess
a) Learning the chess board
b) Getting to know the pieces
2) Tactics
a) Purposes of each piece
b) Discovery
3) Strategy
a) Opening Principals
b) Open games Vs. Closed Games
4) Endgame
a) Endgame evaluation
b) Endgame strategies
My Hobbies
Brain games are always fun, but I also encourage outdoor activities or reading. I enjoy golf, tennis and ice hockey. I play billiards, the guitar and I can cook.
Other Comments
Multiple references are available.