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FM Cristi-Iulian Coca

"For me art and chess are closely related, both are forms in which the self finds beauty and expression." - Vladimir Kramnik

LocationGalati Romania
LanguagesEnglish (US), Română
RatingFIDE: 22712249
Hourly rate25€ / 1 hour or 40€ /1.5 hours (discounts for long term agreements)
AvailabilityAccepting students
Active

About me

My name is Cristi Coca, and I am a 19-year-old FIDE Master from Romania. I fell in love with chess at the age of only 4 years old, and since then, I have never looked back. Thanks to this magical game, I have gathered many unforgettable experiences, traveled to the most wonderful places in the world, and made friendships that will last a lifetime.

I would also like to mention that, for me, chess is, first and foremost, a form of art. All chess players speak the same language—the language of chess—no matter where they are from or what background they have, and to me, this is art.

Playing experience

National Youth Chess Championships:
- 2012 - 3rd place - classical chess
- 3rd place - blitz
- 2016 - 1st place - classical chess
- 2021 - 3rd place - classical chess

2019,2020,2021,2023 - Played in Romanian Chess Superleague (most important and toughest competition in the country)

European and World youth Chess Championships

International Chess festivals

Teaching experience

In the beginning, I was part of a small chess club with only 2 coaches and too many students of all ages. When we went to tournaments, some of the best and older players were assigned the roles of teaching the younger ones. At first, I was the one being trained by more experienced students, but with time, I grew up, and this duty was passed on to my shoulders. The main idea behind this is that I was raised to become a coach, and at the moment, teaching is an integral part of who I am.

Now, the chess club has expanded, and I have the opportunity to teach the younger generations from time to time, sharing my experiences and perspectives about this complex and beautiful game.

Other experiences

I have a big passion for movies, and I aspire to becoming a filmmaker one day.

For more information you can contact me at:
- Instagram: @coca.cristi
- Facebook: Coca Cristi
- email: cristicoca19@yahoo.com

Best skills

My strengths are the following:
- understanding my opponent's psychology
- flexible playstyle
- good tactician
- creative
- patient

Teaching methodology

There are two things I consider of utmost importance about coaching:
1. Understanding how to share your knowledge.
2. Being a FRIEND to the student - I believe that the relationship between the student and the teacher must be built on trust and friendship, as this is the only way to foster growth. The student should not feel uncomfortable in order to give their best and enjoy the magic of chess.

I also believe that there are multiple styles of playing chess, and my role as a coach is to be flexible in order to find the option that best suits the student. Simultaneously, I must be patient and supportive throughout the growth process.