Coach Derek Snell
Coach Derek, believes chess is more than just a game—it’s a fun and powerful way for kids to develop focus, enhance problem-solving skills, and build confidence. His lessons are designed to meet students where they are, whether they’re just learning how the pieces move or already playing in tournaments and wanting to sharpen their strategy.
Unlike most chess coaches, Coach Derek didn’t start playing competitive chess until 11th grade. Becoming a mild obsession over the following year, Coach Derek finished his senior year as the 4th best 12th grader in Virginia. Twenty years later, he rediscovered his love of the game while teaching his five year old son Bode how to play chess. After Bode finished in a first place tie at the 2025 Fairfield County 2nd/3rd Grade Championships as a 2nd grader, Coach Derek knew he found his calling and decided to join the DIG coaching team.
Derek’s Work with DIG:
DIG’s first franchisee focused on growing chess students in New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Bedford, Stamford and Pound Ridge
Currently coaches grades K-8th at the following schools:
- Green Farms Academy
- Green Farms Elementary
- Long Lots Elementary
- Coleytown Elementary
- Fairfield Country Day School
Coaches DIG’s Westport recreational team
Tournament Director for official USCF DIG tournaments
Coaches beginner-to-intermediate players fundamental skills needed to improve their chess game and build their confidence and skills
Fun Fact:
Derek played in a 30 person simultaneous chess match against a Grandmaster as a child living in Budapest, Hungary. All 30 challengers lost, but Derek was the last child standing!
