Helping players learn life lessons through Chess
Personalized chess coaching focused on fundamentals, improving tactics, positional understanding and tournament preparation.
About Walter Guity
Born and raised in New York City, I earned my degree in Psychology from the University of Washington, where my interest in how children learn and build confidence naturally shaped my approach to coaching.
I was introduced to chess at age 11 by my math teacher, and the game quickly became more than a hobby. Chess taught me focus, patience, and resilience, while opening doors to travel, competition, and meaningful connections. Those same lessons are at the heart of how I teach today.
With over a decade of coaching experience, I’ve worked with students of all ages and skill levels — from complete beginners learning how the pieces move to competitive players refining tactics and checkmate patterns.
As a coach — and as a parent coaching my own two daughters — I understand how important it is to create a supportive, structured, and confidence-building environment. My lessons emphasize understanding why moves work, developing strong fundamentals, and learning how to think clearly under pressure.
I’m especially passionate about making chess accessible to underrepresented communities and helping young players see the game as a tool for growth, not just competition. Chess builds critical thinking, perseverance, and self-belief — skills that extend far beyond the board. Inspiring the next generation through this game is what motivates me every day.
Featured in Northwest Chess
Why Chess?
Analytical Thinking: Chess requires players to analyze positions, anticipate opponent moves, and strategize their own. This sharpens analytical thinking skills, which are invaluable in various aspects of life.
Spatial Reasoning: Understanding the movement of pieces on the chessboard enhances spatial reasoning abilities, which are crucial in fields like mathematics, engineering, and architecture.
Pattern Recognition: Recognizing patterns and themes within the game is essential for success in chess. This skill translates to recognizing patterns in other areas of life, aiding in problem-solving and decision-making.
Self-Confidence: As players improve their skills and win games, they gain confidence in their abilities. This self-assurance extends beyond the chessboard and can positively impact other areas of life.
Accessible Learning: Chess is simple to learn, yet offers endless depth. This accessibility makes it an ideal activity for people of all ages and backgrounds, providing opportunities for lifelong learning and enjoyment.
Life Lessons: The planning, foresight, and understanding of consequences inherent in chess gameplay mirror real-life situations. Through chess, young people learn valuable life lessons such as patience, perseverance, and the importance of thinking ahead.
In essence, chess is more than just a game; it's a tool for intellectual growth, character development, and enjoyment that can benefit individuals of all ages.
“I have come to the personal conclusion that while all artists are not chess players, all chess players are artists.”
- Marcel Duchamp
Private Lessons
$75 per Hour
Sign up for 1 on 1 coaching tailored to your level of experience and goals. Whether you’re just learning to move pieces, want to work on solving puzzles and tactics faster, or are preparing for your next tournament, let’s get started!
Group Lessons
$25 per Student per hour
Champion a group of 4 or more together to enjoy group lessons where students will regularly receive a lesson based on their skill level, solve a variety of puzzles, and/or play against each other! Group settings promote social engagement, friendly competition, and build confidence!
Sessions
Save by signing up for session packs
5-session pack: $350 (save $25, $70/session)
10-session pack: $675 (save $75, $67.50/session)
Sign up for private lessons up front to save and block out your classes on a weekly basis
