About Me
Nickolas Saliba
FIDE Instructor | Peak Rating 1960
Hi, I'm Nickolas Saliba, a passionate chess trainer and a peak rating of 1960 player dedicated to helping players of all levels unlock their potential on the 64 squares.
My Chess Journey
With 20 of competitive chess experience and 15 of training, I've had the privilege of working with students ranging from complete beginners to tournament-level players. My own journey began when I co-founded the LAU Chess Club, which is still active today. Through dedicated play and competition, I became a multi-year university champion and earned a performance rating of over 2300 in the Lebanese National Team Chess Championship.
I've competed in numerous tournaments, winning titles at the LAU, NDU, and USJ university championships, and have been training since 2010. What started as a passion for the game has evolved into a deep commitment to sharing the beauty and complexity of chess with others, leading me to earn my FIDE Instructor (FI) title.
My Training Philosophy
Chess improvement isn't just about memorizing openings or calculating variations—it's about developing pattern recognition, strategic thinking, and the confidence to trust your instincts. Every student learns differently, which is why I tailor my approach to match your unique learning style, goals, and schedule.
I believe in:
- Understanding over memorization - We focus on the 'why' behind every move
- Practical improvement - Working on positions you'll actually face at your level
- Building confidence - Helping you trust your chess intuition
- Sustainable progress - Creating study habits that lead to long-term improvement
Outside of the chess world
CTO with 15 solid years of experience in the digital industry currently working at VIDO & LiaisonRd. Previously, Lead Software Engineer at Theguarantors & Twistr, Software Engineer at Rakuten, Digital Marketing Manager at ASAP Systems, FIDE Instructor and a permaculture enthusiast. Earned a B.Sc. in Computer Science from Lebanese American University and several specializations and certificates from leading universities and companies. Specialties: Algorithms, Machine Learning, Software Product Management, Deep Learning, Search Engine Optimization and Chess.
What Makes My Training Different
Every lesson includes analysis of your actual games, not just generic examples. We identify your specific patterns, both strengths and areas for improvement.
We work on positions and patterns you'll actually encounter at your level. No wasted time on theory you won't use for years.
Clear milestones and regular assessments help track your improvement. You'll always know where you stand and what to work on next.
I help develop tournament psychology, time management, and effective study habits. Chess improvement happens both during games and in preparation.
My students can reach out between lessons with questions or share interesting positions they've encountered.
My Teaching Experience
Over my 15 years of training, I've helped students:
- Break through rating plateaus at all levels
- Prepare for their first tournaments
- Develop complete opening repertoires
- Master complex endgame positions
- Build confidence in competitive play
I've worked with:
- Complete beginners learning the rules
- Scholastic players preparing for National tournaments
- Adult improvers looking to enhance their game
- Tournament players seeking to reach the next level
Ready to Start Your Chess Journey?
Whether you're just learning how the pieces move or looking to add those final 200 rating points, I'm here to guide your improvement. Every chess player has unique strengths to build upon and specific areas where focused work can yield dramatic results.
Schedule Your First Lesson Free ConsultationEmail: coach@chesscoach.me
Available: Beirut UTC+3
Languages: English | French | Arabic