Zeb Fortman – Building Thinkers. Creating Champions.
Learn the way of thinking that builds both chess champions and exceptional individuals.
Welcome to Zeb Fortman Chess – Master the Game with a Hall of Fame Chess Expert & Chess Teacher
Are you ready to elevate your chess skills under the guidance of a true chess champion?
Zeb Fortman is a professional chess teacher in Missouri with over 30 years of experience transforming students into champions—both on the board and in life. As a former instructor at the U.S.'s first Anatoly Karpov Chess School, I bring rare insights from training alongside world-renowned minds. My legacy includes coaching five consecutive state championship teams and being unanimously inducted into the Missouri Chess Hall of Fame in 2013.
My impact extends beyond classrooms and clubs. Through my long-standing partnership with LINC, I have hosted and directed Missouri chess tournaments for K–12 students, emphasizing accessibility, inclusion, and strategic thinking. Whether you're searching on Google for a chess instructor near me in Missouri or looking to improve your tactical game online, my depth of knowledge and teaching philosophy set me apart.
Services
I offer customized chess instruction for students of all skill levels—from casual learners to emerging professionals.
1-on-1 Coaching
I offer private, customized lessons based on the chess teacher's game philosophy of strategic thinking and not memorization. My private lessons are designed to meet the goals of the student, whether you are training for a chess championship game or just desire to excel at the basics.
Group Lessons & Workshops
Ideal for schools, clubs, or corporate teams, group instruction explores advanced tactics, openings, and competitive strategies through engaging formats. Students are taught how to think critically, act decisively, and win consistently.
Tournament Prep & Direction
With decades of experience organizing Missouri chess tournaments, I know exactly what’s needed to succeed under pressure. I offer tournament preparation services, game analysis, and professional insights to help competitors perform at their peak.
Online Master Chess Game Training
Can’t meet in person? No problem. I offer online master chess game sessions that maintain the same caliber of coaching. From live games to virtual board analysis, students receive world-class instruction anywhere, anytime.
Why Choose Zeb Fortman?
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Decades of Proven Success: From Pembroke Hill to Mount Washington, I have coached multiple teams to state victories using my signature thought-based training method.
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Hall of Fame Credibility: As a proud member of the Hall of Fame chess community, my legacy is more than just awards—it’s about results and respect in the national chess arena.
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Trusted by Top Performers: Former students have gone on to elite universities like Yale and competed at the highest levels of chess.
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Student-Centered Approach: I don't teach shortcuts—I teach how to think deeply. My unique philosophy shapes confident players and lifelong learners.
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Community Commitment: My partnership with LINC spans over two decades, with free chess events, meals, and trophies that inspire underserved students to engage and succeed.
Whether you are a parent seeking to foster the potential of your child or a competitive player seeking to own the board, I am the expert chess player and coach that you can rely on.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
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Unlock your complete potential with a master chess game online, customized coaching, and champion-level guidance. From your first pawn move to your final checkmate, I will guide you every step of the way.
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Looking for a “chess instructor in Missouri”? The answer is here.
