About Us

At Dragon Knight Chess, we are dedicated to fostering a love for chess and promoting its benefits among individuals of all ages. Our mission is to provide comprehensive chess instruction tailored to children and adults alike. From beginners to advanced players, our programs, tournaments, and events are designed to accommodate all skill levels, ensuring a rewarding learning experience for everyone.

With a focus on excellence and inclusivity, Dragon Knight Chess is proud to be a leading provider of chess education and tournament opportunities. Join us in our mission to unlock the potential of every chess enthusiast, one move at a time!

Our Founder and Lead Coach

Jonathan Schroer, IM

jon@montessoricenter.org

Jonathan Schroer, the lead coach and founder of Dragon Knight Chess, is an International Master with a lifelong passion for chess. Born in 1963 in Urbana, Illinois, Jonathan’s journey has been marked by a deep engagement with chess, law, and education. Growing up on Long Island, New York, he discovered his love for chess at an early age and quickly ascended through the ranks, ultimately earning the prestigious title of International Chess Master.

Jonathan’s intellectual pursuits led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, where he double majored in Political Science and Russian. He later earned a Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School, demonstrating a commitment to social justice and advocacy.

In parallel to his legal career, Jonathan’s passion for education led him to explore the Montessori approach. He began as a pre-K teacher and eventually assumed administrative roles. Jonathan uses many of the techniques he learned in Montessori to teaching chess, which enriches each student’s experience!

Jonathan’s commitment to chess education remains unwavering. He continues to play and coach chess, both privately and at local schools. His impressive chess career includes multiple victories in the NC state championship and a legacy as one of the youngest international chess champions in the U.S.

Dragon Knight Coaching Team

Keep an eye out for updates as we’ll be adding more coaches soon!

Paul Ascolese

paul@dragonknightchess.com

Chess coach Paul Ascolese

Paul boasts over 40 years of experience in both playing and teaching chess. His journey into the world of competitive chess began in 1979, and to this day, he remains an avid and active player.

In 1984, Paul ventured into chess instruction, starting with the Police Benevolent Association in Massapequa, NY. His passion for teaching chess led him to various educational institutions, including Friends Academy in Glen Cove, NY, where he served as a chess coach, and later, Portledge School in Locust Valley, NY, where he not only taught high school chess but also assumed the role of Team Coach.

Before relocating to North Carolina, Paul made significant contributions to the chess community on Long Island. He co-founded the Long Island Chess Center and played a pivotal role in establishing the American Online Chess Academy alongside esteemed colleagues Harold Scott, FIDE Master Roger LaFlair, and Grandmaster Joel Benjamin.

Paul’s dedication to the game extends beyond teaching and coaching. He has an impressive track record in competitive chess, having been part of a team that clinched the New England Amateur Team Championship for two consecutive years. With a peak international rating of FIDE 2275, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the chess arena.

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