About Abel Talamantez
Abel Talamantez is a California native, chess educator, coach, and organizer who has spent more than a decade working to expand the role of chess in education and communities.
Over the past 15 years, Abel has coached students and organized chess programs and events at the local, state, and national levels. He has co-organized numerous championship events, including the Pan-American Intercollegiate Chess Championship, U.S. Junior Congress, U.S. Cadet Championship, and U.S. Amateur Team West.
Abel has more than 15 years of experience coaching elementary school students throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. His work ranges from introducing children to chess for the first time to developing and coaching competitive scholastic teams.
Leadership & Recognition
Abel’s work in chess education and organization has received national and international recognition. His honors include:
- 2020 — US Chess Accessibility and Special Circumstances Person of the Year
- 2021 — US Chess Organizer of the Year
- 2024 — FIDE 100 Educator Award
- 2024 — Andy Lerner Award for Excellence in Chess Education
He is a FIDE International Arbiter and FIDE Lead School Instructor. He serves as a member of the FIDE Chess in Education Commission, Chair of the US Chess in Education Committee, and a member of the US Chess Scholastic Council.
Education
Abel earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA from California State University, Monterey Bay.