GM Explains How Passion And Hard Work Make The Most Out Of Coaching

GM Explains How Passion And Hard Work Make The Most Out Of Coaching
Our first Coach of the Month in 2025 is GM Danyyil Dvirnyy! Danyyil moved to Italy with his family in 2003, turned professional in chess before graduating high school, and obtained his grandmaster title in 2013 at the age of 22. That same year, he won his first Italian Chess Championship, winning a second one in 2015.

Danyyil has written two Chessable courses and is a Chess.com-affiliated coach. He has some really great advice for both coaches and students—this is an interview you'll want to read and digest.

 
At what age were you introduced to chess, and who introduced you?

I was around six years old when my dad taught me the rules... or at least that's what he says! My mom says it was her idea, so when I have to answer this question in her presence, I tell people it was her. Here, I can say that both my parents taught me the rules!

What is your first vivid memory from chess?

I remember getting destroyed by my grandpa when we were going to visit him with my family. Although it didn't happen that often, I enjoyed spending time with him and I tried my best on the chessboard against him. Some time later, when I was eight years old, I managed to beat him, and since then my chess career has skyrocketed!

Which coaches were helpful to you in your chess career, and what was the most useful knowledge they imparted to you?

I basically taught myself until I was at least 2450 Elo. I am a very curious person, and whenever I saw somebody implement an idea—especially with success against me!—I tried to make use of it myself. One of these variations is the Chekhover or Hungarian Sicilian, where White plays 4.Qxd4 instead of 4.Nxd4. One of my best games was a miniature I played using this line, almost the same way I lost when I faced it with Black before.