DIG Chess Travel Team – Summer 2025 Program
DIG Chess Travel Team – Summer 2025 Program
Overview:
The DIG Chess Travel Team combines all of DIG top players who are rated USCF 700 or more and are serious about improving their chess skills. The goal we have for each player on the team is to use chess to get into a great college either as a chess player at the school or using their success in chess on their college application
The program is led by Coach Jithu and Coach Dan, who have taught over 10,000 kids and mentored thousands. In order to become a strong chess player, consistency is key. That’s why players must commit to attending practices every week and playing in a certain number of tournaments each season. If students need to miss classes for vacation, that is an accepted excuse and will not affect their standing.
Coaching Team:
Coach Jithu (USCF Rating of 1888) is responsible for preparing the curriculum and determining what will be taught in each class, ensuring a focused and structured learning experience. He is joined by Coach Dan Starbuck Pelletier, co-founder of DIG Chess, along with other top coaches.
Summer Program Details:
- Season Dates: Week of June 16th to Week of August 18th
- Practice Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- Time: 4-5pm
- Location: DIG Complex, 48 Norfield Road, Weston, CT 06883
- Practice Attendance: There are 3 practices each week. Players are required to attend at least 2 practices per week, but are welcome to attend all 3.
Each practice will focus on a specific theme: openings, middlegames, endgames, tactics, strategy, and chess psychology. Weekly lesson topics will be shared in advance so students can prioritize sessions relevant to their goals.
Student Expectations:
- Group Classes: Students must attend a minimum of two group class per week.
- US Chess Rating: A minimum USCF rating of 700 is required. Students under 700 should participate in weekly DIG tournaments to build ratings before the season.
- Weekend Tournaments: Students are required to attend 6 out of 8 chess tournaments this summer DIG Chess is hosing for practical experience and rating improvement.
- Volunteer Coaching: On Saturdays, students will volunteer at the Bridgeport Library to teach beginner players—reinforcing their own understanding of the game.
Optional External Tournaments (Not Included):
- June 21–22: New York State Open – Tarrytown, NY
- July 26–27: Bradley Open – Windsor Locks, CT
- Late August: Summer Open by NBCC – Manchester, CT (Dates TBD)
Program Price: $850
This price includes all practices, tournaments, and private mentorship with Coaches Jithu and Dan for each student. The package covers up to 6 DIG Chess tournaments per season. The team will also participate in select external tournaments, which students would have to pay those tournament organizers directly. Jithu and Dan will take active interest in each student as he/she develops into a high-level competitive chess player with a goal of using chess as a tool to get into a great college.