Coaches And Bio
Odane Hall
- Head Coach
My name is Odane Hall, and I have been passionately coaching chess for 15 years. With a deep-rooted love for the game and a unique ability to connect with young minds, I have dedicated my career to nurturing the next generation of chess champions.
Specializing in coaching children aged 3 to 16, I have guided numerous young talents to both national and international success. My approach blends strategic thinking with a strong emphasis on sportsmanship and personal growth, fostering a supportive environment where young players can excel both on and off the chessboard.
Throughout my career, I have coached several national champions, including Ronak Shergil, who dominated the sub-10 category for two consecutive years, and Victoria Salazar, who also held the sub-10 title for two years. Other notable students include Victoria Aung, a double champion in the sub-8 and sub-10 categories, Cameron Coe, a three-time sub-8 champion, and Nyah Wood, a sub-10 champion.
My coaching extends beyond national borders. I have coached Caribbean Champions at the C.A.C. (Caribbean and Central American Chess Championships), such as CM David Thomas, and Nyah Wood, who achieved second place in the sub-10 category, and Luke Wright, who secured third place in the sub-8 category.
In addition to individual successes, I am proud to have served as the coach for Hillel Academy, where I led the team to three consecutive sub-8 scholastic championships and one absolute championship. My commitment to developing young chess players has been recognized with my certification as a Professional FIDE Certified School Instructor. I also held the position of National Junior Coach Assistant in 2015.
My greatest joy as a coach comes from witnessing young players grow in skill and confidence. I remain dedicated to fostering the talents of future chess champions.
