I'll get back to my series on Openings Analysis soon, just needed a break! The past few days has been quite tiring as I attended a FIDE seminar (more info to follow) over the weekend - 2am to 5am daily as it was presented out of Europe and I am in New Zealand!
So, for today, I thought I'd tell you a bit more about what I have been doing for the past year and a bit. I've been working as a 'chess professional', note, not a professional chess player, just as someone who earns their main living through chess!
How do I do this?
I have an office at home and work from there.
Firstly, I coach chess. I coach both children and adults, from beginners to about 1800 at the moment. Mostly online via Zoom, but also in person. I have students in New Zealand as well as abroad. Currently my lessons range from 30 mins to an hour, depending on the students age, ability and needs.
I have 11 students at present and am always looking for more! I also coach at 3 schools.
Secondly, I run / organize chess tournaments for juniors in Christchurch and Invercargill - both in new Zealand. These can be hard work, finding venues and helpers, advertising etc. The actual event on the day is the easy bit!
Thirdly, I sell good quality chess books. Again, some aimed at children and beginners and some aimed at far stronger players. These are available from me in person in Invercargill, New Zealand or can be posted out.
I also sell chess sets, boards, clocks and other chess accessories. Again, these are available from me in person in Invercargill, New Zealand or can be posted out.
Lastly, I am working on my FIDE Arbiter title, so will be adding officiating to my range of services. I am currently a National Arbiter with one FIDE Arbiter norm awaiting ratification.
Between these 5 'income streams' and 2 kids and a household to run, I am just busy enough!!
The main thing is I absolutely love it!
I trade under the name 'chessventures'
You can find out a bit more about me and what I do below:
