Our Team – Board of Directors
Laila Faerman (Coach Lily), Founder
NATIONAL EXPERT, FIDE NATIONAL INSTRUCTOR, CERTIFIED TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR
With over 20 years of experience, Laila Faerman (Coach Lily) is a distinguished Chess Expert and FIDE National Instructor who has inspired countless children and adults across New York City through her engaging teaching methods in both public and private schools. Born in Russia, Laila’s chess journey began at the tender age of 4 at Petrosian’s Chess Club in Moscow. After relocating to the U.S., she quickly rose to become the 2nd highest-rated female player in her age group and proudly represented the U.S. at the World Youth Chess Championship in Paris. A trailblazer in the chess community, Laila won the New York State High School Chess Championship in 1998 and made history as the first female representative to compete in the Denker Tournament of High School Champions, a prestigious national championship in Hawaii. She was a key member of the championship-winning team from Edward R. Murrow High School,recognized by Mayor Giuliani at New York City Hall. Laila’s impressive achievements also include placing 3rd in the New York State Women’s Chess Championship. As a certified tournament director, Laila has successfully directed prestigious events such as the World Open, New York City Championships, New York State Championships, and the SuperNationals. In 2024, she showcased her skills as part of the Google team at the FIDE Corporate World Championship, finishing 10th worldwide.
Beyond her chess prowess, Laila is an accomplished singer, performing at the Marshall Chess Club, and the opening ceremonies of the US Amateur Team East Championship and the SuperNationals VIII in Orlando, Florida where she performed the National Anthem (2025). She creatively blends her passions by organizing events that celebrate the synergy of chess and music. Laila is passionate about guiding young minds to surpass their expectations and realize their full potential. With a deep love for the game, she is dedicated to sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of chess players.
Josue Castillo
Josue Castillo is an accomplished chess professional with over 15 years of experience as a FIDE-certified instructor and competitive player. He has earned prestigious titles, including FIDE Candidate Master, US National Master, and FIDE National Instructor, and has competed successfully in tournaments across the United States, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.
An expert in nurturing young minds, Josue has been teaching chess to children since 2010. He currently works as a chess instructor at two of New York City’s most prestigious schools, Avenues: The World School and The Browning School, where he teaches after-school programs and prepares students for local and national competitions. He has also taught at other notable institutions, including United Nations International School, St. Bernard’s School, and The Lang School. Previously, Josue served as the chess specialist and team coach at Rosalyn Yalow Charter School, where he developed high-performing teams that competed in city and state tournaments.
Beyond the classroom, Josue has a passion for organizing chess programs for underserved children in the Dominican Republic. His work has inspired a new generation of players, including young champions who have gone on to represent their countries in international competitions.
- 2nd Place – FIDE Under 2400, World Open FIDE 2022 (USA)
- Champion – Duarte Province Tournament 2007 (Dominican Republic)
- Representing the Dominican Republic in the Friendly Olympic Teams Match against Puerto Rico (2013).
In addition to his teaching and playing, Josue has personally trained top players, including national champions and international medalists.
Elina Cotler
Woman International Master, US Women’s Champion, Pan American Youth Girl’s Champion
Elina Cotler grew up in Brooklyn, NY after immigrating as a teenager with her family. Elina won the New York State Women’s Chess Championships three years in a row (1996-1998). In 1998, she won the Pan American Youth Girl’s Chess Championship in the U18 age group. Three times she participated in the World Junior Chess Championship (1997-1999). In 2000, Elina tied for first place in the U.S. Women’s Chess Championship and was awarded the FIDE International Women Master (WIM) title. She graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and works for Deutsche Bank. While no longer an active chess player, Elina participates in corporate chess events and has volunteered as a chess instructor to inspire the next generation.
