DIG Chess Travel Team

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 their selected number of practices each week and are encouraged to compete in tournaments throughout the season. Tournament entry fees are paid separately. 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. 

Program Details: 

Current Session 10: Week of September 21st to Week of November 9th

• Practice Days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Time: 4:15pm-5:30pm
• Location: DIG Complex, 48 Norfield Road, Weston, CT 06883
• Practice Attendance: Players can choose to attend 1, 2, or 3 practices per week depending on the package selected. Players are expected to consistently attend their selected number of weekly practices.
• 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.

Weekly Training Schedule

• Tuesday: Openings/Puzzles with Coach Forde/Jithu
• Wednesday: Game Analysis with Coach Forde
• Friday: Endgame/Puzzles with Coach Forde

Student Expectations:

• Group Classes: Students are expected to attend the number of weekly classes included in their selected Travel Team package.
• 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: Travel Team players are encouraged to participate in tournaments throughout the season to gain competitive experience and improve their USCF rating. Tournament entry fees are not included and are paid separately.
• 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): TBD

Program Price:

• 1 Class Per Week — $200 per season
• 2 Classes Per Week — $400 per season
• 3 Classes Per Week — $600 per season

All Travel Team packages include structured group training and mentorship from DIG Chess coaches. Players can select 1, 2, or 3 classes per week based on their schedule and competitive goals. Tournament entry fees are paid separately. Jithu and Dan will take an active interest in each student as they develop into a high-level competitive chess player.