Individual Coaching
One-on-one lessons tailored to your goals — the fastest way to improve, whatever your starting point.
- Personalised study plan
- Game analysis
- Opening repertoire
Pretoria · South Africa · Online worldwide
Master the board with a coach who's lived it for 35 years.
I'm Justin Wilken, and I've guided players from their very first move all the way to South African colours. Whatever your age or level, there's a path forward — and it starts with one game.
Or call 071 448 5992
35+
Years coaching
15×
National Coach
20+
SA Junior Championships
All
Ages & levels
National Coach · SA Head Coach · Peak rating 2289
What we offer
Coaching built around you
Every player is different. Choose the format that fits your goals, schedule and budget.
Group Lessons
Learn alongside players at your level. Great value and a fun, competitive way to grow.
- Small groups
- Structured curriculum
- Friendly tournaments
Online Coaching
Train from anywhere in the world over video and a shared board. Same quality, zero travel.
- Worldwide
- Flexible scheduling
- Recorded sessions
Over-the-Board
In-person coaching around Pretoria for hands-on learning and real tournament preparation.
- Pretoria & surrounds
- Tournament prep
- Hands-on drills
Schools & Clubs
Chess programmes that build focus, patience and problem-solving in young minds.
- Beginner-friendly
- Team training
- Inter-school prep
Competitive Pathway
Serious about going far? Justin has guided players to South African colours for decades.
- Provincial & national
- Rating goals
- SA colours pathway
Chess Camps
A weekend away built around chess — a tournament to open, training and analysis, and plenty of fun in between.
- Weekend getaway
- Tournament + training
- All ages welcome
Why train with me
Experience you can't fake
I've been part of South African chess since 1977 — as a player, a union leader and, above all, a coach. National Coach 15 times, SA Head Coach 4 times, and coach to the SA Junior and provincial teams many times over: it's experience very few coaches can match.
- Patient and encouraging — I genuinely love teaching
- A proven pathway from beginner to SA colours
- Fluent in English & Afrikaans — I coach worldwide online
- Years of school, provincial and national team coaching
- Same-day WhatsApp replies
"Chess teaches focus, patience and the courage to make a plan and commit to it. My job is to make that journey fun — and to help every student see how far they can really go."
JW
Justin Wilken
Founder & Head Coach, Just-In-Chess
Loved by students & parents
Kind words
"Over the past five years, Justin has played an instrumental role in my son Johnathan’s chess journey. His dedication, patience, and ability to inspire young players have been nothing short of exceptional."
Robin B
Parent of Johnathan Bienedell · 5 years of coaching
Community
More than lessons — a chess community
I host social chess around Pretoria: a friendly monthly tournament (around 20 players) and casual chess most Tuesday evenings. All levels welcome.
- Monthly social tournament — roughly once a month
- Tuesday-evening chess — most weeks from ~18:00
From the blog
All articles Chess tips & ideas
Improvement
5 Habits of Fast-Improving Chess Players
The simple, repeatable habits that separate players who plateau from those who keep climbing — straight from 35 years of coaching.
For Parents
Is My Child Ready to Learn Chess?
A coach's honest guide for parents: the right age to start, what to look for, and how chess helps young minds grow.
Coaching
Online or In-Person Chess Lessons?
Both work brilliantly — here's how to choose between online and over-the-board coaching based on your goals and lifestyle.
Ready to make your next move?
Message me on WhatsApp for a quick, friendly chat about your goals — I reply the same day.