As part of FIDE's Social Chess Year, we shine a light on this impactful initiative

Introducing:

The Chessers Team & Academy

Founded in Westchester County, New York, The Chessers Team & Academy is an Over-the-Board (OTB) chess club. With an active, dues-free membership, the club hosts weekly and bi-weekly meetups, training sessions, and community events for chess lovers of all ages and skill levels.

At the heart of this initiative is independent community volunteer Virginia Benedict, whose mission is to use chess as a tool to nurture both academic and social growth. "l coach anyone of any age or level, with a focus on children and youth, using chess to develop critical thinking, pattern recognition, language skills, and math," she explains.

Virginia designs personalized programs that use the chessboard as a diagnostic and developmental medium. By observing how a child plays, she identifies cognitive strengths, learning styles, and potential, and tailors her guidance accordingly.

This week, as part of FIDE's Social Chess Year, we shine a light on this impactful initiative.

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ABOUT ME

Virginia Benedict is a Chess-in-Education School Instructor

My Accreditations

Virginia Benedict is an independent community volunteer. “I coach anyone, of any age, or expertise level interested in developing his/her academic and social skills using chess as a tool,” states Ms. Benedict. “I design programs to use Chess as a tool to teach languages, develop critical thinking, practice pattern recognition, and coach mathematics in general, with a focus on children and youth,” she declares.

Ms. Virginia Benedict, as a member of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) serves as a volunteer during World Championships and Festivals both in-person and remote.

Holiday 2025 greeting card with handwritten message Virginia Benedict for teaching chess, placed on a chess set background.

A child's drawing on white paper with the words 'VIRGINIA' at the top and 'LOVE' at the bottom. The word 'LOVE' is inside a large heart with a smiley face. The drawing is done in purple crayon.

A handwritten holiday thank you note on white paper from The Weiss Family with a Christmas greeting, placed on a black and white checkered surface. A colorful card with large pink and purple lettering spelling 'Merry Everything' and illustrations of wrapped presents is partially visible behind the note.

A handwritten note and a greeting card placed on a chessboard. The note is addressed to Virginia, wishing her peace and serenity this Christmas 2025, and thanking her for teaching chess to someone named Jimmy.

Let’s work together to help you find your chess learning path. See how you can work with me to discover the road to Master.

WORK WITH ME

TESTIMONIALS

Best Wishes for 2026

Thank you for taking the time to teach Timmy chess and cultivate his love and interest in the game.
Your dedication to the game is truly admirable and we appreciate all that you do.!
— Tee, Grace, Timmy & Jonny
"I can’t wait to read the newsletter each week. it’s my favorite way to start the weekend."

— Monet Goode
"Virginia's chess coaching style strikes the perfect balance!"

Virginia's chess coaching style strikes the perfect balance between encouragement and thoughtful reminders, fostering both a love for the game and a disciplined approach to learning. She motivates players with positivity, ensuring the experience remains enjoyable, while gently guiding them to think critically and strategically at every move.
~ Sara Dawson
"I love the flexible scheduling options. They keep me on track."

— D Moreno
"What a treat!"

Coach! Virginia is passionate about teaching chess. She's great with the little ones, helping them build their game knowledge and confidence. The Chessers Team & Academy is a local gem.
~ Bonnie Shiu
"A wonderful addition to Ossining and its community!"

It was a delight to discover The Chessers Team & Academy yesterday at Sing Sing Kill Brewery (great venue and pumpkin cider too!) - a wonderful addition to Ossining and its community. We were fortunate to also get to meet the warm and bubbly Virginia Benedict, an inspiration! I am only on a visit to Ossining from the U.K, but wish I had known about this group earlier as I visit quite often. Highly recommend it for people of all abilities. Thank you Virginia and congratulations on all the milestones you have already achieved so far with this project. All the best,
~ Veronica M
"Virginia is kind and knowledgeable!"

My son just recently started working with her, but he's already shown an interest in chess and is excited to go to his meetings with Virginia to learn more. She's mentioned her long history in working with kids as young as three, presenting the game at the appropriate level for each child. She's also assured me that kids pick up this game so quickly, and in doing so also increase focus and other intellectual abilities. I'm looking forward to seeing my son's progress as he continues his lessons. Thank you Virginia!
~ Rie N
"My daughter looks forward to every session!"

My daughter has been learning chess with Virginia for the past two months, and she looks forward to every session. The program is helping her develop strategy, tactics, and confidence. Virginia does a wonderful job empowering children with focus, skill, and strength. I’m excited to see how my daughter continues to grow. Thank you!
~ Christine Chiara-Ferry
"She has a lot of knowledge and additional resources in the chess community"

My son recently started chess lessons with Virginia. It’s re-ignited his desire to understand and improve. She has a lot of knowledge and additional resources in the chess community to make it feel fun, and social!
~ Jen Huang

MY COACHING METHOD

Focus

It all starts by learning how to focus on how far you wish to take your chess career
Reflect

Next, you’ll reflect on what may be blocking you, and learn how to overcome these obstacles.
Refine

The last step? We learn how to continually refine what we’ve learned. Think of this as your new beginning.