Meet Our Coaches

Trevor Plizga — Director

Trevor is the director of Chess on the Hill and has taught thousands of kids throughout the country before settling in Southern Vermont. He’s coached multiple state champions since moving to Vermont four years ago. Trevor takes an approach focused on each child’s development, not just chess content — using the game to teach competition, persistence, and emotional regulation with positive energy. He reminds his students that they come to tournaments to compete and play a game they love, not solely to chase a result.

Shesit Moreno-Lopez — Coach

Shesit is a student at Williams College, double majoring in Economics and Philosophy. She’s been playing chess since age 10, and it has shaped her life tremendously. Shesit has taught a wide range of students — from young Latino immigrant children, to K-12 students in NYC schools, to senior citizens. She believes chess can be transformative for people facing challenges in their lives, offering a path to think critically and build confidence. Shesit currently runs the all-girls chess club at Williamstown Elementary.

Cruz Estrada — Coach

Cruz is a chess coach and student at Williams College with a passion for mentorship, strategy, and youth development. He enjoys helping students strengthen both their chess fundamentals and critical thinking skills while building confidence and discipline through the game. His teaching style emphasizes patience, encouragement, and making learning engaging for players of all levels. Cruz currently teaches the after-school chess club at Williamstown Elementary.