Learn Chess. Think Better. Play with Confidence.
National Master Craig Clawitter has been teaching chess since 2001, helping kids and adults become stronger players, better problem-solvers, and more confident thinkers.
"Every move is a chance to learn and grow."
- National Master since 2007
- 25+ Years Teaching Experience
- Chess.com Coach of the Month
- Original Life Master
We buildconfidence throughstrategicthinking and play.
Mastery & Growth
Chess is a tool for life. We teach critical thinking, focus, and problem-solving through personalized coaching sessions.
Proven Results
Led by a National Master with 25+ years of experience, we ensure every student develops a deep, lasting love for the game.
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How I Can Help
From foundational skills to competitive mastery, our coaching builds confidence, critical thinking, and focus through chess.
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Private Chess Coaching
Personalized chess instruction for kids and adults, available online or in person. Whether you're learning the basics, trying to break through a rating plateau, or simply want to enjoy the game more, lessons are designed around your individual goals.
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After-School Chess Programs
Bring Chess To Impress to your school or organization. Our engaging after-school programs combine chess instruction, games, problem-solving activities, and friendly competition while helping students develop focus, critical thinking, resilience, and confidence.
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Tournament Coaching
Prepare for competition with focused training designed around your games and your goals. Analyze your games, identify recurring mistakes, strengthen tactical and strategic skills, and develop a practical plan for improvement.
Why Learn with Chess To Impress?
At Chess To Impress, we transform the game into a tool for life. Our coaching builds critical thinking, focus, and creativity through personalized instruction. Whether you are a student or a school, we provide the strategic edge needed to excel on and off the board. Join us to elevate your game and sharpen your mind.
With strategy,
the Chess To Impress team
Approved by our youngest (and hungriest) critics — Kira, age 1.
Personalized Coaching
Tailored lessons designed specifically for your individual goals, current skill level, and learning style.
Decades of Experience
Guided by a National Master with over 25 years of proven teaching expertise and mentoring excellence.
Learn to Think, Not Just Memorize
Focus on deep strategic insight, problem-solving, and core chess concepts that build true understanding.
A Positive Learning Environment
An encouraging, structured, and engaging atmosphere tailored for students of all ages and backgrounds.
Masteryisnotadestination.Itistheprocess.
At Chess To Impress, we believe chess is a tool for life. Every move is a lesson in focus, every game a chance to build critical thinking. We teach with intention and clarity.
National Master Craig brings over 25 years of experience to every session. Whether you are a beginner or a competitive player, we provide the personalized support needed to sharpen your mind and elevate your game.
What Students and Families Say
“My daughter went from 106 to 405 in less than a year!”
“When my daughter Isabella showed interest in chess, I set out to find someone to help her on her journey. After trying several coaches, I reached out to NM Craig Clawitter. It was quickly clear that Isabella finally had a coach that understood what she wanted to get out of chess: fun! However, this fun approach also led to rapid improvement. In under a year she climbed from 106 to 405, closing in on 600. Craig has found a way to meet Isabella where she is — balancing structure and fun, correction and encouragement. If you are looking for a coach to craft personalized, fun, challenging, and rewarding lessons, you can't go wrong with NM Craig Clawitter.”
“I went from 464 to 884 in less than 2 years!”
“I started taking lessons from NM Craig Clawitter in April 2021, when my Chess.com rapid rating was 464. Craig's guidance took my understanding and approach to the game to a whole new level, making me a "real chess player." Less than 2 years later, my rating rose to 884, an increase of over 400 points! One of the most rewarding aspects was how Craig used positions from my games to create challenging puzzles. My journey with Craig has been incredibly successful. His coaching was instrumental in my development.”
Learn More About Chess
Articles, videos, and puzzles from an active chess educator.
Articles & Analysis
In-depth tactical breakdowns, strategic guides, and instructional articles written for players at every level.
Video Masterclasses
Video lesson breakdowns, game commentary, and practical coaching advice to sharpen your overall play.
Tactical Puzzles
Curated calculation exercises and interactive puzzle sets designed to build vision and tactical alertness.
Daily Study Tips
Bite-sized coaching tips, daily chess positions, and behind-the-scenes updates from current training programs.
Beyond the
Chessboard
Mastering the game, by Craig, 2025
Chess is more than a series of moves; it is a language of logic and creativity. We teach students to see the board as a map of possibilities, where every decision shapes the outcome. At Chess To Impress, we move past rote memorization to build deep critical thinking. Our coaching focuses on the mental discipline required to solve complex problems, both on the board and in the classroom.
With over 25 years of experience, we have refined a method that balances rigor with genuine curiosity. We believe that confidence is earned through practice and that focus is a skill that can be sharpened. Whether working with a young student or an adult competitor, our goal is to provide the tools for independent thought. We don't just teach how to win; we teach how to analyze, adapt, and excel.
true mastery is not about memorizing openings. It is about understanding the underlying principles of strategy. We encourage our students to embrace the challenge of the unknown, to remain calm under pressure, and to find creative solutions when the path forward is unclear. This is the essence of our coaching: building minds that are ready for any challenge.
“We teach students to think for themselves.”
What remains is a foundation of resilience. A student who learns to navigate the complexities of a chess game develops a mindset that serves them for a lifetime. We provide the guidance, the structure, and the encouragement needed to reach new heights. These are not just lessons; they are investments in a sharper, more confident future.
Ultimately, chess is a mirror of the mind. It rewards patience, rewards clarity, and demands integrity. We build Chess To Impress for those who understand that success is a process, not a destination. We are here to help you navigate the board and the challenges beyond it. This is our commitment to your growth. It is also, quite simply, our passion.
Ready to Make Your Next Move?
Whether you're learning your first chess moves, preparing for your next tournament, or looking for an engaging chess program for your school, I'd love to help.