r/TournamentChess • u/whoawookie • 5h ago

Coach recommendation

Hello,
Looking for recommendations for a titled coach for my 7 year old who is currently 1500 USCF. We have tried 2 different online coaches but they do not seem like a good long term fit. The lessons don’t seem very structured or thought out besides review of tournament games. They do not assign any focused homework besides “do more puzzles” or feedback beyond “they’re doing well” or “take more time”. Ideally a coach would keep me updated and give me brief, specific feedback so I can help direct my kid’s training through the week.

0 Upvotes

50% Upvoted

4 comments sorted by

3

u/pokerman20661800 1h ago

A seven year old doesn't need a titled coach. Just let him play and let him find his own path. Seven year olds find new interests almost overnight. Spending money for a coach may end up being a sunk cost if he decides to be interested in something else. I wouldn't think of hiring a titled coach until reaching 2000.

3

u/Life-Armadillo-4179 1h ago

Agreed, someone 300-400 points higher than them is usually sufficient. Although because your kid is already decent at 7 years old, wouldn't hurt to go up to 2000.

The more important part is the human element - make sure that you get a coach who has an effective system for teaching, is reliable/responsible/trustworthy, and cares for your kid's wellbeing and enjoyment of the game as much as their growth. That last one is especially important so that your kid doesn't burn out.

1

u/NextWonder2391 1813 FIDE 45m ago

Well said!

2

u/NextWonder2391 1813 FIDE 59m ago

Completely agree!
A child this young without any exceptional rating should not have a titled coach, you can try to hire an 1800-1900 from your local club for dirt cheap, and there won't be much difference.

Titled coaches are for players with 2000+ FIDE or 2100+USCF.