What should I expect from a coach?
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chessmicky wrote:
I think this might help
http://www.chesscafe.com/text/heisman21.pdf
I will just add that you want a coach who looks at your games and answers your questions, so that he understands what you need to improve. Unless it's what you want, don't end up paying someone to just play blitz with you
Thanks, I read it all and it answered a lot of my questions and gave me some good ideas.
No, I wouldn't want to play blitz. But maybe they know a position (technical or not) where players of my level often go wrong in their move selection or thought process. Maybe I get 30 minutes on the clock and we play it out until there is a clear change in the evaluation and they can design an entire lesson around it... or not haha. Just wondering.
Get something that comfortably sits 4 people. OH! coach, I thought you said COUCH. Sorry. Get a coach, that can buy you a couch.
Thanks ronald. First session I'll invite my coach into an unfurnished room and after we're sitting on the floor I'll look into his eyes and say "first thing's first, what kind of couch can I expect from you?"
Next year when I get a coach I'm going to expect them to come up with the lessons and such. I may ask them questions, or ask them to go over a game of mine, but I'd expect the coach to know what to do and lead the sessions/direct my learning. Chemistry and rapport to me will be very important.
I'm used to very informal analysis which involves a lot of give and take. They want to look at a game they played, I want to practice my technique in ____ position, they want to play a few 5 minute games in some sideline they've been looking at, I want to show an article I found interesting etc.
I'd definitely want my coach to come prepared, but I'm so used to collaboration that I'm not sure how it works when all I do is show up :)
I'm considering getting a coach (preferably face to face, not online). What's reasonable to expect? Should they go over none / some / all of my tournament games (as I play them)? Should they give me homework? Suggest openings? Suggest other study material? ... Play training positions with me? Should I expect them to be a certain rating?
How do I do my part? As a coach do you expect me to play in tournaments? Do you want me to analyze a game before I give you the PGN? Should I set the tone for a session by bringing material (positions, games, analysis by other players)?
Thanks.