Student Spotlight: Discover Their Journey

At Chesscolastics, we specialize in nurturing a genuine appreciation and love for chess in beginners by making the game accessible, engaging, and fun. Through thoughtfully designed lessons, interactive activities, and supportive coaching, we help fresh players build confidence, understand core strategies, and experience the joy of learning and playing chess—one move at a time.

Moves That Matter: Jaiden’s Path on the Chessboard 

(Jaiden Llaneza, Winnipeg, Manitoba)

My chess journey started one day when I went to Coach Jojo’s house. He had some friends over, and they were playing chess. I did not know how to play, so I just watched them. They looked serious and quiet, but I thought the game looked cool. I asked how it worked, but they were too focused to answer. Still, I kept watching, trying to figure it out on my own.

A year later, a friend came to our house. He said he knew how to play chess and showed me the basic moves. He taught me how the pawn moves one step, and how the knight jumps in an L shape. I found out from my mom that he is one of Chesscolastics’ students. He was good, and I wanted to be good too!

After that, I started practicing what I learned. I really liked it and wanted to get better. Then, Coach Jojo and his family came to visit from British Columbia and asked me, “Do you really want to learn how to play chess?” I did not even have to think—I said yes right away! 

That was the beginning of something special. I started learning chess with Chesscolastics about a year ago. At first, I felt a little confused. There were so many rules, and the pieces moved in diverse ways. But every time he showed us something new—a smart trick or a strong move—I was amazed. Even when I did not get it right away, I kept trying. And something wonderful happened: I started to understand. I started to love chess.

I remember the first time I joined a tournament. I lost—and I cried. I felt sad, like I was not good enough. But Coach Jojo reminded me to just play and enjoy the game. He told me that every player loses sometimes, and that what matters most is learning from losing and having fun. His words helped me feel better.

Now, whenever Coach Jojo gives us a hard puzzle, I do not feel scared. Even if it is tricky, I try my best. He always encourages us, and that makes me feel brave and confident. Whenever I solve a puzzle or play a good game, I feel proud of myself.

I am so thankful for Chesscolastics and for Coach Jojo. They do not just teach us how to play—they teach us how to believe in ourselves. Chess is now one of my favourite things, and I know that if I keep learning and trying, I can get better every day. Thank you, Chesscolastics!