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CM Niksanch22 Lichess coach picture

CM NIKOLAOS SANDALAKIS

"Chess is the art of turning every move into an opportunity, and in the game of life, I'm here to help you make every move count."

LocationCrete Greece
LanguagesΕλληνικά, English (US)
RatingFIDE: 222926722324
Hourly rateLessons - 25€/h Training games - 20€/h
AvailabilityAccepting students
Active

About me

My name is Sandalakis Nikolaos and I am 28 years old. I am a 2192 rated CM from Greece with (peak FIDE 2251). If you are interested in working with me contact me here in inbox or at my e-mail (sandalakisn94@yahoo.gr). I am available for both lessons and training games! I have also a degree at the School of Primary Education of the University of Crete. And master in "Educational Sciences - Education using new technologies" in University of the Aegean.

Playing experience

Some of my favourite tournament victories:
Tie 2nd place in Malta International Open 2016
Tie 2nd place in 24th International Tournament of Nikaia Honor to National Resistance - A group
2nd place in 2014 GP CHESS FESTIVAL - 12TH TOURNAMENT SOH - A' GROUP
1st place in 24th team School Chess Championship in Greece
Many good wins against good chess masters such as GM Kotronias,GM Shoker, GM Kraidman, GM Kostic ...

Teaching experience

Certified FIDE Instructor (FI)

10 years of experience working as a chess coach

Trainer of many Greek talents.
I worked with many young greek champions and talents have taught about 300 children and adults so far! Some of my students achieved quite significant distinctions.
I have been the official coach of Rhodes chess Club "Ippotis" for the year 2019 - 2020.

Other experiences

For nearly two enriching years, I had the privilege of serving as a primary school teacher, where I had the opportunity to shape young minds and instill a love for learning. This invaluable experience not only solidified my understanding of pedagogy but also reinforced the importance of fostering critical thinking, discipline, and patience in my students. What sets my journey apart is the seamless fusion of my teaching career with my passion for chess. Teaching young children in primary school has equipped me with a profound understanding of educational development, allowing me to approach chess instruction with a unique perspective.
In addition to my dedication to chess and teaching, I have a deep love for sports.

Best skills

As a dedicated chess enthusiast, I have not only honed my own skills in the game but have also dedicated myself to nurturing the talents of aspiring chess players. With a passion for both chess and teaching, I've been able to successfully organize and guide my students on their chess journeys. My approach involves setting clear and achievable goals for each student, tailored to their individual strengths and weaknesses. Through meticulous planning and patient guidance, I've witnessed remarkable transformations in my students' abilities. It's immensely gratifying to see them achieve the goals we set together, whether it's mastering a particular opening, improving their endgame techniques, or even competing at higher levels. Chess isn't just a game; it's a journey of self-discovery, strategy, and intellectual growth, and I'm proud to be a part of my students' chess success stories.

Teaching methodology

My teaching approach involves personalized lesson plans tailored to each student's needs, utilizing resources like Lichess and ChessBase PGN files. I conduct lessons via Skype or Zoom, ensuring accessibility. I maintain ongoing communication to review progress, address questions, and provide supplementary materials, fostering a deep understanding and passion for chess.

1) When a student approaches me for coaching, my first step involves analyzing ten of their recent games. This analysis helps us identify their strengths, which we will refine into strategic assets, and their weaknesses, which we will actively work to eliminate.

2) The content of our lessons and training program is tailored to your specific strengths and weaknesses.

3) Following each lesson, you will receive all lesson materials, homework, and additional training resources.

4) If you are genuinely committed to improving your chess skills and enjoy the learning process, rest assured that you will receive an abundance of training material daily, tailored to your pace of learning.

5) I maintain open availability for my students, ready to promptly address any questions that arise. I encourage my students to reach out with questions as they occur, ensuring a seamless and continuous learning experience.