Kind words from the chess family

Over the past five years, Justin Wilken has played an instrumental role in my son Johnathan Bienedell’s chess journey. His dedication, patience, and ability to inspire young players have been nothing short of exceptional.

Under Justin’s guidance, Johnathan has grown not only as a chess player but also as a disciplined and confident young person. Justin’s coaching style strikes the perfect balance between technical excellence, strategic thinking, and genuine encouragement, allowing his students to develop both their skills and their love for the game.

One of the highlights of Johnathan’s chess career has been qualifying for Interprovincial competitions and earning a place in the South African Chess Closed Championships in 2025 — achievements that would not have been possible without Justin’s unwavering support, expertise, and commitment.

What sets Justin apart is the genuine care he shows for each student. He invests in their growth, celebrates their successes, and helps them learn from setbacks. His passion for chess and for developing young talent is evident in everything he does.

As a parent, I am incredibly grateful for the positive impact Justin has had on Johnathan’s life over the last five years. I would highly recommend Justin Wilken to any parent or aspiring chess player looking for a coach who is knowledgeable, professional, dedicated, and truly invested in the success of his students.