Our Team
Matthew Jonker
Co-Founder and CEO As a former Junior National Champion and University National Champion, Matthew possesses a deep understanding of the demands of competing at the highest level in chess. With many years of experience in playing and training in chess, he has cultivated a strong chess acumen and a profound comprehension of what it takes […]
Marcel Fauconier
Manager Marcel has been passionate about chess since his father first taught him the game. A former 1800-rated player, he continues to enjoy the challenge of discovering something new every time the pieces are set on the board. His experience spans playing, coaching, refereeing and team management. He has served as a Chess SA Arbiter, […]
Ben Hercules
Head Coach Ben is one of South Africa’s leading chess coaches and a multiple-time national champion. A former South African representative at international events, he has coached numerous national champions and championship-winning teams. Ben specialises in structured player development, helping students transform potential into consistent tournament success.
Meet the Coaches
Our team of expert coaches includes some of the top chess players and trainers in the country. With years of experience, our coaches are dedicated to helping you achieve your full potential and reach your goals.
Lindo Xulu
Coach Lindo is an accomplished chess player and coach with a FIDE rating of 1936 and a Chess SA rating of 2081. After discovering chess at the age of 19, he quickly rose through the ranks, proving that dedication and hard work can overcome a late start. His achievements include winning the KZN Open (2019), […]
Panashe Chimbwanda
Coach Panashe is a dedicated chess coach with a FIDE rating of 1740 and a Chess SA rating of 1814. A former Zimbabwe Junior Chess Champion, he has represented Zimbabwe internationally and competed against world-renowned grandmasters, including Wesley So, Hikaru Nakamura, and Nigel Short. With over seven years of coaching experience, Panashe is passionate about […]
Vusi Mlahleki
Coach Vusimuzi is an accomplished chess player and coach with a FIDE rating of 2072 and a Chess SA rating of 2097. Introduced to chess in primary school, he progressed from a curious beginner to representing South Africa at multiple international tournaments and earning an International Master norm. His achievements include competing at the 2014 […]
Prince Chidembo
Coach Prince Chidembo is a passionate chess coach and competitive player with a FIDE rating of 1907 and a Chess SA rating of 1941. With experience competing at university and provincial level, he has dedicated his career to developing young chess players through structured, engaging coaching that builds confidence, discipline, and critical thinking. His achievements […]
Sello Mahlangu
Coach Sello is a FIDE Candidate Master (CM) with a peak FIDE rating of 2201 and a passion for helping players reach their full potential. After taking up chess at the age of 14, he rapidly progressed to represent South Africa at the African Youth Chess Championship before earning his CM title through international competition […]
Tshepo Tshetlo
Coach
Shepard Sarakusebwa
Coach Shepard is a passionate chess coach and competitive player with a FIDE rating of 1885 and a Chess SA rating of 1950. After discovering chess on a laptop, he quickly became fascinated by the game and has dedicated himself to continuous improvement ever since. His achievements include winning a Gauteng Inter-Region Board Prize (Gold), […]
Greatman Njoku
Coach Greatman is a dedicated chess coach and competitive player with a FIDE rating of 1651 and a Chess SA rating of 1726. He began playing chess at the age of 12 and has since represented his high school, JMC, and the University of the Free State, where he has captained the USSA team for […]