Our Coaches
Grandmaster Harsha Bharathakoti, a highly acclaimed chess player from India, boasts a remarkable FIDE peak rating of 2608 and a formidable USCF rating of 2659. Renowned for his profound strategic understanding and sharp tactical prowess, Bharathakoti has not only clinched victories in numerous national and international tournaments but has also qualified to compete in the World Cup. His versatility across various formats and dedication to chess extend beyond personal achievements to coaching and mentoring, leaving an indelible mark on the global chess community and inspiring aspiring players.
Harsha BharathaKoti
Grand Master
FIDE Peak Rating: 2608
Vinuthna Nalluri
Vinuthna Nalluri is an accomplished and experienced chess coach with an impressive track record in national and international championships. She is a multi-time champion, securing gold medals in National Sub-Junior, National Junior, and Asian Junior Girls Championships. She is also a medal winner in many other national events. She achieved silver in the National Women's Championship and finished joint 5th in the World Junior Girls Championship. As a WIM titleholder and recipient of a special award from the Indian Government for her achievements in international chess, she brings a wealth of expertise to guide and train aspiring chess players, helping them reach their full potential.
Woman International Master
FIDE Rating: 2243
Mounika Akshaya
Mounika Akshaya, a Woman International Master since 2022, has achieved over 10 international medals and 20 national medals in her illustrious chess career. Notably, she secured a gold medal in Blitz and a bronze in Classical at the Asian Juniors Girls Chess Championship 2023. With significant victories and placements in major chess competitions across the globe, Mounika has demonstrated her skill and dedication to the game. Her ability to communicate effectively with students and manage time efficiently makes her an exceptional coach. Mounika is passionate about developing the next generation of chess talent, employing innovative strategies and personalized training methods to enhance their game.
Woman International Master
FIDE Rating: 2140
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Nadezda Pentala
​Nadezda, who began playing chess at the age of 4, has maintained a deep passion for the game throughout her life. In her competitive career, she achieved remarkable success, winning 7 National Youth Championships, numerous regional competitions, and contributing to the National Team in various European and World Youth and Junior Championships. Attaining the title of Woman FIDE Master at 12 and securing the National Girls Junior Championship at 14, Nadezda's dedication to chess remained unwavering. Nadezda also excelled as a certified arbiter and coach, sharing her passion and fostering connections within the chess community. With a belief in chess as a tool for mindfulness, sportsmanship, and patience, Nadezda aspires to inspire students to gain strength and confidence through the game.
Woman FIDE Master
FIDE Arbiter, FIDE Instructor
FIDE Rating: 2009
Suman Kalavagunta
FIDE Rating: 2061
Suman is a highly enthusiastic chess coach with a deep-rooted passion for the game, which he has been playing for as long as he can remember. He has a wealth of experience in speed chess, having won multiple rapid and state level championships. Furthermore, he represented his state in national-level tournaments and attained a FIDE rating of 2061, which is a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication to the game. Suman's leadership skills are also evident in his role as a team captain, where he has led several teams to victory in university-level championships, inspiring and motivating his players to perform at their best. In his 30-year-long chess career, Suman has imparted his vast knowledge and expertise to school children, helping them hone their skills and achieve their goals. His love for the game of chess and his ability to establish a connection with his players make him an exceptional coach for chess enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Pragna Patavi
Pragna's passion for chess began at the age of 5, and she has dedicated over a decade to the game. With a strong FIDE rating of 2000, she possesses an in-depth understanding of chess strategies and tactics. Notably, she secured a national silver medal at the age of 7, a national bronze medal at 13, and achieved a remarkable 5th place in the Asian under-15 tournament, showcasing her commitment and exceptional skills. As a coach, Pragna focuses on cultivating her students' individual strengths, emphasizing critical thinking, and good sportsmanship. Her ultimate goal is to inspire excellence both on and off the chessboard.
FIDE Rating: 2000
Seetharam Marreddy
Seetharam Reddy Marreddy, with a chess journey beginning at age 8, has excelled from local to international stages. He secured state titles in Under 12 and 16 categories and ranked 7th in national championships during his youth. His prowess even includes victories against grandmasters.
Since 2014, he has triumphed in several US tournaments, notably in the expert category. Beyond competing, Seetharam passionately shares his knowledge through chess camps and free coaching. He has also served as a Chess Coach at Jayne Ann-Miller Elementary in Lubbock, Texas, reflecting his commitment to chess education and outreach. His multifaceted chess career showcases dedication and success in various roles within the chess community.