Registration extended till April 14th
We are proud to welcome Grandmaster Nico Chasin, WGm Sabina Foisor and WGm Martha Fierro to Chess for Cure—don’t miss the chance to compete alongside top talent and be part of something truly meaningful
April 24, 2026 | 6:00 PM
The Bank at the East End | 1201 E. Market St., Akron, OH 44305
we believe chess is a powerful tool for growth, helping young minds develop strategic thinking and make thoughtful decisions both on and off the board
Community Outreach
At Discovery Chess Academy, we are committed to using chess as a vehicle for change, empowering young minds to make strategic, thoughtful decisions both on and off the chessboard.
advantages
We are dedicated to broadening and developing chess as art, recreation, and as a significant element of culture in Northern California.
A clear learning pathway from beginner to advanced levels led by certified and titled coaches, focused on strategy, critical thinking, and smart decision-making.
Engaging chess programs for K–12 students that strengthen concentration, discipline, and problem-solving while building a strong academic mindset.
Flexible training options through interactive online coaching and hands-on academy sessions designed to accelerate student growth and performance.
Professional preparation for USCF and FIDE-rated tournaments with structured training in openings, middle-game strategy, and endgame mastery.
Personalized one-on-one coaching that helps students progress faster, sharpen their skills, and reach their full competitive potential.
Expanding access to chess through community initiatives and youth programs that develop discipline, confidence, and life skills through the game.
Community Outreach
At Discovery Chess Academy, we believe in the transformative power of chess, especially for underrepresented youth in Ohio’s Juvenile Detention Centers. Through our chess education outreach program, we provide young individuals with the tools to make better life choices, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a sense of discipline and responsibility.
Our outreach program focuses on helping youth build essential life skills through chess:
Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Chess teaches youth how to analyze situations, plan ahead, and weigh consequences—skills that translate directly into real-life decision-making.
Patience & Discipline – The game requires patience and focus, helping students develop self-control and strategic thinking rather than impulsive reactions.
Resilience & Accountability – Chess encourages students to take responsibility for their moves, helping them learn from mistakes and make better choices.
Confidence & Leadership – Success in chess builds confidence and encourages youth to set goals and believe in their ability to improve.
Constructive Engagement – Chess provides a positive and intellectually stimulating activity that helps channel energy away from negative influences.
Through our partnership with the Ohio Department of Youth Services, we work directly with students at the Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility and Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility. Our structured chess lessons serve as a rehabilitative tool that supports youth in developing valuable skills for reintegration into their communities.
At Discovery Chess Academy, we are committed to using chess as a vehicle for change, empowering young minds to make strategic, thoughtful decisions both on and off the chessboard.
Find out about our team od expert chess coaches
Our team is made up of passionate and highly experienced chess educators who are dedicated to helping students of all ages and skill levels grow both on and off the chessboard. Each coach brings a strong background in competitive chess, teaching methodology, and youth development, ensuring that every student receives high-quality instruction in a supportive learning environment.
We develop all of our teaching materials in-house so that we can carefully tailor the chess content and learning approach to match the appropriate age, ability level, and learning style of each student. By designing our own curriculum, we ensure that lessons remain engaging, structured, and effective for beginners, intermediate players, and advanced students alike.
Our coaching team continuously refines and improves our program by testing new teaching strategies, integrating modern technology, and adapting our materials to reflect the evolving landscape of chess education. This commitment to innovation helps keep our lessons fresh, interactive, and intellectually stimulating, allowing students to remain curious, motivated, and challenged as they progress.
Beyond teaching chess moves and strategies, our coaches focus on developing essential life skills such as critical thinking, patience, discipline, resilience, and problem-solving. These abilities not only strengthen a student’s performance on the chessboard but also support their personal development and confidence in other areas of life, as we guide both students and families through every stage of their chess journey—from learning the fundamentals to building advanced strategic thinking in an enjoyable and rewarding environment.
CEO & Owner, Discovery Chess Academy
Board Member, Ohio Chess Association Board Member, Ohio Scholastic Chess Association Committee Member,US Women’s Chess
Head Coach/Advisor
Coach & Expert Player
Coach & Woman Grandmaster (WGM)
Coach & Program Developer, Chess for Juvenile Centers
Coach & Woman Grandmaster
Expert Player & Online Coach
Marketing & Promotions Coordinator
In-house Inttern
05
our gallery
A visual celebration of the vibrant chess community we've cultivated at our academy.
Here, you'll find a collection of captivating photographs capturing the essence of our events, from intense tournaments to lively workshops and everything in between.
Explore our gallery and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of experiences that define our chess academy.
Achievements
At our chess academy, we take immense pride in our achievements, which stand as a testament to our commitment to excellence in chess education.
2nd place
K-5 3rd place
K-3 Reserve 3rd place
1st place for U1200 category.
1st place.
National champions, Grade school champions, elementary State champions
contact us
At Discovery Chess Learning Academy, we welcome players of all levels—from beginners learning the basics to nationally ranked competitors pursuing advanced training. Our academy provides professional chess coaching in a supportive and inclusive environment designed to help every student grow both on and off the board.
As a nonprofit organization, we are committed to nurturing a lifelong passion for chess while strengthening the chess community. In addition to coaching, we organize professional tournaments and support initiatives that promote women’s health and the empowerment of women in chess.
Our mission also extends beyond the classroom. We provide chess education programs to underrepresented youth in Juvenile Detention Centers across Ohio, using chess as a tool to teach discipline, critical thinking, and personal development.
If you would like to learn more about our programs, tournaments, or community initiatives—or are interested in bringing chess education to your school or organization—please reach out to us. We would be happy to connect and answer any questions.
© Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved
