Welcome to MVP Chess!

I'm Tom Shupe, an award-winning coach and chess expert based in Alexandria, Virginia. I achieved a peak USCF rating of 2025 and rank in the top 0.1% of players on Chess.com. With over a decade of experience, I help players of all ages unlock their full potential and elevate their game at the chessboard.

Online Lessons

Secure & Convenient: Lessons are hosted securely via Zoom Workplace Pro, allowing you to join from anywhere on any device. You can also record and save lessons for future review and analysis.

Comprehensive Support: Enjoy continuous support between lessons, ensuring you make steady progress and have your chess questions answered promptly.

Active Learning: Few coaches offer personalized game reviews due to the significant preparation required, but I believe it's the key to unlocking your full potential in chess.

In-Person Programs

Availability: Proudly serving Alexandria, Virginia. As a longtime resident, I’m proud to offer chess programs to my community and surrounding areas in Northern Virginia.

Enrichment Programs: Partnering with schools to introduce fun chess programs, including dedicated girls-only groups that promote confidence and a supportive learning environment.

Community Engagement: Providing in-person chess lessons for all ages, including specialized programs for seniors in retirement communities, focusing on cognitive benefits and social interaction.

All MVP Chess programs are covered by comprehensive insurance, ensuring safety and peace of mind for all participants.

  • “We chose Tom as a chess coach for our daughter because of his extensive experience teaching scholastic chess. Tom has wonderful way of relating to kids while encouraging their learning and building their enthusiasm for the game. I would highly recommend MVP Chess for children of all ages and skill levels.”

    John P. (Canada)

  • “Tom is such a great coach because he is kind and really likes to have fun when we are together. He teaches me lots of new things and we review games and even learn about Grandmasters!"

    Kimmy P. (Canada)

  • "What separates Tom from other chess coaches is his extensive game knowledge and humanized approach to chess. I'm proud to call him my coach and hope to continue being a steward of the game with his guidance."

    Omer K. (Ohio)


  • "I'm very impressed with Coach Tom's proactive and diligent approach. His passion for chess shines through and his desire to help others is incredibly genuine. I can't recommend working with him enough."

    Kyla Z. (California)

  • "Tom is a supreme chess coach. His patient and honest coaching helped elevate my approach to the game of chess. His feedback was constructive and concise, and I truly felt his passion for coaching and playing through his guidance."

    Devon P. (Virginia)

  • "So happy with Tom as a coach. We've seen great improvement in our son's chess abilities. Definitely recommend!"

    Katherine C. (Virginia)

YouTube Partner

Check out my fast-growing YouTube channel, MVP Chess! With over 1,200 subscribers and counting, it’s a great way to see my coaching style in action. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, you'll find valuable insights to improve your game.

Safe Play Certified

As a US Chess Safe Play Certified coach, I prioritize creating a safe, respectful, and positive environment for all players. Trained through the US Center for SafeSport, I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and protection in all my coaching sessions.