James Phan
Chess Coach | Data Science Student (UNSW)
Key Highlights:
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Peak FIDE Classical Rating: 1925
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Peak Chess.com Rating: 2350
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10+ years of chess experience
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Coach at Trainstein and Canterbury Boys High School
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Expertise in beginner-to-advanced junior development
Meet James Phan
James Phan is a Data Science student at the University of New South Wales and a competitive chess player with over a decade of experience. He holds a peak FIDE classical rating of 1925 and a Chess.com rating of 2350. Having competed in numerous tournaments across Sydney, James brings a well-rounded, strategic mindset to coaching. At Trainstein Chess College and Canterbury Boys High School, he has worked with students of all levels—from complete beginners to advanced juniors—helping them achieve personal milestones and competitive success in inter-school events.
James’s coaching style blends structured lesson plans with practical, tournament-tested insights. He emphasizes critical thinking, pattern recognition, and decision-making, tailoring his teaching approach to match each student’s pace and goals. Whether in group settings or one-on-one sessions, he aims to build confident, independent players who understand the “why” behind every move.
James finds the greatest reward in coaching when students grow not just as players—but as thinkers.