Instructors
Meet the Instructors
Led by a family of champions, our coaching team brings both skill and heart to every classroom.
Why we teach
We teach chess because we know what it can do, not just on the board, but in life.
Chess teaches focus, patience, decision-making, and confidence, qualities every child can carry into school, relationships, and the future.
We started Chess Minds Calgary to give kids the kind of learning environment we always wished we had growing up: structured, supportive, and genuinely fun.
We’re not here to just teach moves. We’re here to help kids grow into thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders, one game at a time.
NM Patrick Tolentino
Coach
Coach Patrick is a Chess National Master. He has represented and played for Team Alberta in grades 1, 2, 3, 6, & 9, with his highest achievement placing 3rd place in the Canadian Chess Challenge. He was one of the instructors in the Calgary Junior Chess Centre for 3 years. While balancing Chess and University studies, he is also a coach to many students in Calgary.
NA Angelo Tolentino
Coach
Coach Angelo has been teaching chess to kids since 2009 and has coached many of the Alberta Chess Champions residing in Calgary. He was the Coach for the Alberta National Scholastic Chess Team for 2011, 2017 and 2019. His highest rating with Chess Federation of Canada was 2032 and is a National Arbirter (Referee) by CFC and FIDE.
Andre Tolentino
Coach
Coach Andre was the Alberta Chess Champion for his grade level in 2011, 2014, 2017, and 2019. His greatest achievement is winning 3rd place in the 2017 Canadian Chess Challenge (grade level Nationals) in Toronto. He was the 2019 flag bearer of the Alberta National Team in Vancouver. He has an extensive teaching experience at the Calgary Junior Chess Centre.
Khino Tolentino
Coach
Coach Khino started playing chess at the age of 5. He was the Alberta Chess Champion for his grade level in 2013. His greatest achievement is winning 3rd place in the 2013 Canadian Chess Challenge (grade level Nationals) in Ottawa. He’s also part of the Senior Basketball Team of his High School.
Sign Up To Our Newsletter
Discover how chess can shape your child’s mind, one move at a time.
