Henry Aronson

What Makes You a Good Coach?

I believe I am a good Chess coach because I am passionate about the game and patient when teaching beginners. I love introducing Chess to those who have never been exposed to it, as I believe that bringing new players into the game helps prolong its relevance.

What Are Your Key Strengths?

My key strengths include:

• Patience and understanding – essential for teaching and guiding new players.
• Passion and perseverance – I am committed to helping students develop their skills and appreciation for the game.

Why Do You Love Chess?

I love Chess because it teaches strategy and logic within a fun and controlled environment, making it accessible to anyone willing to play. Chess gives players a sense of control, while also teaching them that even the best-laid plans can be disrupted if they fail to anticipate their opponent’s moves.

I also admire how Chess is suitable for all ages and helps players learn to handle both victories and losses with grace and sportsmanship.

When and How Did You First Learn to Play?

I started playing Chess around the age of five or six, learning from my father at the kitchen table. I was immediately fascinated by the game, and within a couple of years, I joined my first school Chess club.

Why Do You Enjoy Working with Kids?

I enjoy working with kids because I love the idea of teaching younger generations lifelong skills that they may even pass on to future generations.

Additionally, I believe that adults can learn a lot from children. In Chess—at its core, a game of war—a young and untamed mind can sometimes see opportunities that a more developed mind might overlook.

What Are Your Main Chess Achievements?

emoji_events Participated in multiple Chess tournaments during childhood.
emoji_events Active member of the school Chess club for many years.
emoji_events Taught Chess to beginners of all ages, from young children to adults in their mid-twenties.
emoji_events Introduced numerous people to the game, helping them develop a lifelong appreciation for Chess.
emoji_events Passionate about making Chess accessible to those who have never played before.

How Do You Think Chess Helps Kids?

Chess is a fantastic learning tool for children. It introduces them to the concept of winning and losing in an environment they initially perceive as fully within their control. Learning to handle victory and defeat with elegance at a young age helps build resilience and emotional intelligence—key traits that will benefit them throughout life.

Moreover, Chess teaches strategy, perception, and lateral thinking, all of which are valuable life skills. In today's world—much like in Chess—the unpredictable and ever-changing landscape requires foresight and adaptability. I firmly believe that Chess helps embed these critical skills in young minds, preparing them to navigate life’s challenges.