About Me

My Name is Austin McMurtrie, and I am the Founder of Chess Wins. I am currently attending Waubonsee Community College and am working towards my associates degree. After I earn my associate’s degree, I am planning to transfer to a 4-year university to study Finance. I am currently an assistant chess coach at Hinckley Big Rock High School and Middle School. I am also a certified USCF Club TD.

How I began Playing Chess?

I began learning how to play chess in kindergarten. Although Chess Scholars at my elementary school was only offered to students’ 1st through 5th grade, they made an exception for me. By the end of the year, I had won the Chess Scholars tournament at my school. In second grade I began competing in USCF tournaments.

My Most Memorable Chess Tournaments?

My two most memorable tournament performances ever were when I was competing in the 4th and 5th grade section at the 2017 K-8 State Chess Tournament, and the competed at the 22-23 IHSA Chess State Finals. I scored a 5.5/7 at the 2017 K-8 State Chess Tournament which earned me a 10th overall finish. My only loss came to the state champion at the tournament. At the 22-23 IHSA Chess State Final I finished with a perfect 7/7 score on first board. I was 1 of only 2 fist boards that year to finish with a perfect score on first board and one of the only first boards on a class 1A school in the history of IHSA chess to accomplish this feat.

What is My Rating?

I have a 1453 USCF Rating. I have not played much rated chess recently, so I am stronger than that. I have actually won my last 17 rated chess games.

Why did I create Chess Wins?

I have created Chess Wins to offer free educational resources to improve at chess. Puzzles are one of the most effective ways to improve at chess which is why I have created a large collection of chess worksheets. The worksheets have many different themes and levels to choose from.

Do I offer Private Coaching?

Yes, I do offer private chess lessons. If you are interested contact: k6chess@gmail.com


About Chess Wins

Chess Resources

At Chess Wins, we pride ourselves on offering a wealth of resources to up your chess game to the next level. With suggestions on videos to watch and practices to go through we will have you playing at the next level in no time.

“Play the opening like a book, the middle game like a magician, and the endgame like a machine.” – Rudolf Spielmann