I’m a 30-year-old FIDE Master from Finland. I approach everything I do with clear goals — whether it’s chess, coaching, or professional life. Finnish is my native language, I speak English fluently, and some Russian, as I come from a bilingual family. I hold a Master’s degree in Computer Science. As a person, I’m reliable and get along well with all kinds of people. I’ve been described as someone who makes logical, well-reasoned decisions.
Contact: erikronka@gmail.com or Lichess
FM Erik Rönkä
With years of experience, I provide precise analysis, opening preparation, and strategic thinking for goal-oriented improvement.
| Location | Helsinki Finland |
|---|---|
| Languages | English (US), Suomen kieli, русский язык |
| Rating | FIDE: 228426872455 |
| Hourly rate | €40/hour • €150 for 5 hours • €250 for 10 hours |
| Availability | Accepting students |
| Active |
About me
Playing experience
I’ve been playing chess since 2006. My best achievements include representing the Finnish national team in 2022 and winning multiple Finnish Championship medals in rapid, blitz, and team events. I’ve also defeated several grandmasters in both classical and blitz chess.
Teaching experience
I have over ten years of experience in chess coaching. I’ve helped my students improve from the 1200 level to 2000 and have coached players of all levels up to around 2100. I’ve also organized and taught chess camps for children. In addition, I wrote articles for the Finnish chess magazine for fourteen years and have streamed educational chess content on Twitch.
Other experiences
For several years, I’ve also worked as a commentator for Finnish chess streams. Viewers have appreciated my style, which is both educational and realistic.
Best skills
As a player, I enjoy open positions and often recommend them to my students as well. My opening repertoire includes, for example, the Open Sicilian, the Ruy Lopez, and the Semi-Slav Defense. In coaching, I always aim to identify each student’s key areas for improvement and clearly explain my reasoning. I take great joy in seeing my students apply in their games the concepts I’ve taught them.
Teaching methodology
I consider game analysis the most important part of coaching, as it reveals the key areas for improvement. Independent study is essential for chess improvement, and as a coach, I can provide the best recommendations for effective training. I have a large collection of opening materials ready to share. I also find it important to review classic games, tactics, and endgames with my students. Lessons can be held via Google Meet, and all training materials are provided in PGN format or as shared Lichess studies.