At Premier Chess Academy (PCA), our vision is to transform kids into the world of chess & support them along the transition. Each and every kid at PCA deserves a special appreciation but we have shortlisted (selection criteria below) the students. Friendly advice, “for student’s those who didn’t make it through – you will make it one day and for those who are the stars of the month – continue the practice as your bar goes up”.
Here we go to recognize the stars of the month (January 2026) at Premier Chess Academy, Asia Pacific (Australia, Singapore and New Zealand)!
1. ESHWAR YARASANI
“My name is Eshwar Yarasani. My favorite chess player is Hikaru Nakamura. I am 9 years old and I have loved chess since I was 5 years old. I won a chess trophy in my 3rd tournament. I’ve been practicing chess for 2 years nonstop. I played over 2000 chess games on Lichess. played in 8 chess face to face tournaments in Melbourne. My day starts with waking up and playing a minimum of 3 chess online games before I get ready for school. I am in Year 5 and I love talking about chess with my friends. The level I am in is Intermediate 1. My rating is currently 1504.I also enjoy playing chess tournaments and competing with other players. That is all about me.”
Coach feedback on Eshwar:
“Eshwar is really performing better and better every day, I have seen him rectifying himself whenever we find any mistakes with his games, he keeps learning new things and memorizing them. He tries to practice in his available time. It clearly shows his love and passion towards the game. He is very focused in regular sessions & always tries to implement the concept in his own games. I wish him very good luck for his Chess Career.!!.”
Few games of Eshwar:
https://lichess.org/3OYsmIni/black
https://lichess.org/pZKNIyug/black
2. Sri Akshara Peyyeti
“Sri Akshara Peyyeti, a bright and enthusiastic student in Grade 8 at Suzhou Singapore International School in China, has found passion in chess since 2023. Under the guidance of Coach Tushar, she has become a better version of herself. Confident, and radiant. Not only does she participate in chess, but she also snowboards, plays a variety of sports, is in the debate club, in the Model United Nations, an A student, and is also a leader in the student council of SSIS. She has found interest in chess ever since she was young and has decided to join alongside her sister Aarohi. She plays chess often, both online and on the real board. She found a safe space in what she does for fun, whether the game is funny or serious, she finds it fun and interesting to keep playing. Chess in general, helped her become more logical, strategic and smart, not only on the board, but in real life. Chess has taught her many life skills. A huge shoutout to Coach Tushar in guiding her alongside in her journey, helping her improve in strategic thinking and in many different aspects of chess. We cannot wait to see what more she can do in chess.:).”
Coach feedback on Akshara:
“Akshara is a truly exceptional chess player who has consistently impressed with her focus, determination, and love for the game. She approaches every session with curiosity, discipline, and a positive attitude, always eager to learn and apply new concepts. Her understanding of chess concepts—including tactics, strategy, openings, and endgames—has grown tremendously. She not only thinks ahead but also demonstrates remarkable adaptability and the power of comeback in games, often turning difficult positions in her favor with smart calculation and patience.Akshara’s resilience, sharp thinking, and analytical skills set her apart, and her dedication and consistent practice make her a standout student with great potential to become a strong and accomplished chess player. This recognition as Star Kid of the Month reflects her hard work, steady improvement, and inspiring mindset. Congratulations, Akshara! Keep shining, learning, and reaching new heights in your chess journey.”
Few games of Akshara:
https://lichess.org/NVyhh5sK/black
https://lichess.org/GKh2Ck5T/black
https://lichess.org/RXUnPTG1
3. Christian Jean Florens
“Christian Jean Florens was first introduced to chess at the age of six through his kindergarten, where the game immediately sparked his interest. Fascinated by the strategies and challenges of chess, he soon asked for his very first chess set as a birthday gift. From that moment on, chess became a part of his daily routine, whether playing with friends or enjoying matches with his parents. Two years later, Christian joined the PCA chess programme, where he received structured training under the guidance of dedicated coaches. Through their support, he developed strong fundamentals, strategic thinking, and a deeper understanding of the game. The coaches also instilled in him important values such as discipline, focus, and sportsmanship. Christian has since participated in various online and over-the-board tournaments, gaining valuable experience and achieving commendable results. With his continued commitment and passion for chess, he consistently strives to improve and challenge himself. Christian’s journey reflects both his love for the game and his determination to grow as a young chess player.”
Coach feedback on Christian:
“Christian is a brilliant kid. He is very hardworking and never misses any of his classes. At such a young age his attitude towards learning new things is just commendable. He is doing very well and is a quick learner. The way he solves the puzzles and gives quick answers that are superb. This is just the beginning and at this point, such type of quality, responding to puzzles and various aspects shows that he will do much better in the future. I feel privileged to have Christian as my student. My best wishes are with him for success in his near future.”
Few games of Christian:
https://lichess.org/tAVlnWaC/black
Selection Criteria –January 2026:
- Regular in class and practice sessions.
- Displaying improvement in practices to reach top 3 positions.
- Puzzle solving and tactics findings in regular class.
- Generate quest in chess and regular in assignments.
- Overall – Passion is evident in class, practices, puzzle solving etc.
Recent Comments