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About Russian Chess School

Russian Chess School is an online chess course, school, and community for adult improvers. Founded by WGM Dina Belenkaya, RCS offers a complete training program for all levels from 0–2000, with weekly group lessons, game reviews, 1:1 coaching calls, blitz events, homework, and community support for players who want to learn chess online.
 

Chess coaches at Russian Chess School — WGM Dina Belenkaya, WIM Anna Gvanceladze, WFM Alexandra Samaganova, WIM Alina Balaian with their Student jessica Richard and her dog Geumi playing chess

our team

grandmasters guiding you at every step of your chess journey

we’re more than just coaches — we’re your personal support. with us, you’ll never feel lost on your chess journey.
WGM Dina Belenkaya, founder of Russian Chess School, 25+ years competitive chess experience
WGM Dina Belenkaya
 
FIDE

Founder of RCS and creator of our signature training method. Dina combines elite chess expertise with strict coaching and a global media presence.

WIM Anna Gvanceladze, Head coach at Russian Chess School
WIM Anna Gvanceladze
 
FIDE

Anna brings a deep coaching experience and ensures that every student feels supported within our vibrant community.

WFM Alexandra Samaganova, chess coach at Russian Chess School
WFM Alexandra Samaganova
FIDE

Alexandra blends competitive chess skill with engaging content and direct mentorship for our students.

WIM Alina Balaian, chess coach and co-creator of the RCS training method
WIM Alina Balaian
 
FIDE

Alina is the strategic mind behind the development of our method, guiding students with precision and care.

our method

Most chess players try to improve by jumping randomly between YouTube videos, puzzles, opening courses, blitz games, and — even worse — bullet.Most chess players improve by jumping randomly between YouTube videos, puzzles, opening courses, blitz games, and — even worse — bullet. Russian Chess School takes a different approach. Students follow a structured training program combining lessons, game reviews, homework, practical play, and coaching. We don't believe in memorizing endless opening lines. Our goal is to help players develop strategic understanding, make better decisions, and learn how to use their brain.

Russian Chess School is an international online community, but we also believe in the value of learning and playing together in person. Whenever possible, Dina Belenkaya organizes live chess classes, masterclasses, tournaments, and community events in cities around the world. These gatherings continue the tradition of the in-person training camps from which our school grew.
 

Discover one of our in-person chess events with Dina Belenkaya in Paris.

in-person
events

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