Mike graduated from UNC-CH in 2001 with a
degree in journalism. He moved to NY City to teach chess for three years,
then returned to his native Charlotte to start his own business. He has
since become a regular contributor to Chess Life. In 2009 Mike went on a
on a sabbatical to do some chess reporting, such as at the Chess Olympiad, and
to simply learn about new cultures. His stops have included Europe,
Morocco, and Africa.
More information on his journey
Here is an excellent video interview of Mike.
Chess Career Highlights
courtesy Young Master Chess
As a Chess Player
- 1985 - Received first rating of 1398 (age five)
- 1986 - Played Josh Waitzkin at the Nationals (creating a mention in the book "Searching for Bobby Fischer"
- 1988 - National K-3 Champion
- 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 - North Carolina High School Champion
- 1996 - Received National Master and Life Master titles
- 1996 - World Open Under 2250 Champion
- 1997 - North Carolina Open Champion
- 2003 - Land of the Sky Open Section Champion(Largest open tournament in NC)
- 2006 - Received FIDE Master title
- 8-time member of the All-America Chess Team (inaugural member)
- Career national scholastic record: 61 wins, 10 losses, 13 draws
As a Chess Instructor
- Taught more than 4,000 children and adults over 13 years
- Instructor at more than 40 summer camps
- Head coach of 2003 National K-8 Champion Team (David A. Boody Middle School - Brooklyn, NY)
- Coach of 2003 National Sixth Grade Champion (Jayson Lian)
- Coach of 2003 National K-8 Co-Champions (NM Alex Lenderman and NM Alex Pelekhaty)
- Coach of 2004 National K-8 Champion (NM Alex Pelekhaty)
- Coach of several National Champion junior varsity teams and top-five open section teams 2003
- 2003 Chess-in-the-Schools Instructor of the Year
FM Mike Klein