Excel With
Chess
Mission Statement: To teach kids chess in a fun, safe environment with encouragement, independent practice resources, and engaging lessons. We strive to ensure every student is learning a new skill in each class!
about us
Professional Chess Instruction Since 2009
- We have taught Chess Clubs at over 100 Schools
- We guarantee 2+ Coaches at every program
- Extensive experience teaching chess for ages 5-12
- Levels taught range from absolute beginner to State Champions
- We have multiple coaches in the top 100 players in WA State
- Currently serve over 20 schools
Our Services
We are dedicated to serving the Lake Washington School District, Bellevue School District, and Issaquah School District through in-person chess education.
Chess Tournaments
We offer 3 State Qualifier tournaments each year. One in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. This year's tournaments are scheduled for February 10 and April 6. Students need to score 3 points or more out of 5 games in order to qualify for the WA State Elementary Championships.
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Summer Camps
We will be hosting chess camps throughout the summer, and each camp week will include multiple groups based on skill level. We offer Full day Chess or Chess plus Lego Building. Summer Camps are offered from 8:30am to 3:30pm Monday through Friday at the Pine Lake Community Center in Sammamish.
Read MoreSchool Clubs
We have experience teaching chess at over 100 elementary schools and pre-schools, including some students as young as 4 years old. We have experience coaching all levels, ranging from learning how to move chess pieces to students who have placed first in the Washington State Elementary Chess Championship.
Read MoreOnline Classes
We offer specialty online group classes throughout the year. Most of these classes are for more advanced students looking to improve their tournament skills. Lessons are 1 hour long and taught through Zoom and Lichess.org.
Read MoreSchool Clubs
Before and After School Chess Programs
- Classes are 60 minutes long
- Multiple groups based on skill level
- Students learn something new each class
- Lessons are challenging and engaging
- Students compete against each other in a weekly in-class tournament
- Our goal ratio is 14-16 students per coach
bio
Hello! My name is Lane Van Weerdhuizen and I have been playing chess since the age of 5.
When I was 6, I competed in my first chess tournament! Some notable chess accomplishments:
- Placed first in WA State Championships in 5th grade (2000)
- Competed in Nationals in 5th grade 2000 (20th place blitz section)
- Placed third in High School State (2006)
- Graduated high school with most NWSRS games in the State played (over 500 tournament games played)
- Competed in North American Open and US Open chess tournaments
- Currently ranked in the top 100 players in Washington State
