Sharpen the Mind. Clear the Path. Carry the Hatchet.
About the Initiative
The Pathcutters: Gaming & Chess Initiative is more than a program — it is a path of growth.
Through chess and strategic gaming, we equip participants with the skills to think critically, plan ahead, and overcome adversity.
Every move on the board mirrors a move in life: discipline, foresight, and resilience.
Our mission is to transform players into thinkers, and thinkers into leaders — preparing them to embody the values of a Hatchet Bearer.
Mission Statement
To empower individuals through chess and gaming by teaching strategy, resilience, and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the board.
- Access & Inclusion: Programs for beginners, youth, and experienced players alike.
- Skill Development: From chess fundamentals to advanced strategies.
- Life Application: Translating chess principles into real-world problem solving.
- Community: Building mentorship and teamwork through shared growth.
- Competition: Hosting tournaments that challenge and reward excellence.
Why Chess?
Chess is more than a game — it is a lifelong teacher. Every lesson on the board translates into daily life:
- Planning Ahead → Goal setting and foresight.
- Pattern Recognition → Problem-solving in academics, work, and relationships.
- Resilience → Recovering from setbacks.
- Discipline → Staying focused under pressure.
- Strategic Thinking → Making choices that shape success.
Tournaments & Classes
We host regular tournaments, training sessions, and classes designed to challenge and inspire.
Tournament Format:
- Swiss Rounds: All players compete in 4–6 rounds.
- Finals: Top 4–8 players advance to knockout rounds.
- Time Controls: Rapid (15+5) and Blitz (10+5) formats.
- Divisions: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced sections.
- Awards: Trophies, medals, and special recognition for resilience, sportsmanship, and improvement.
Classes & Training:
- Beginner: Rules, piece movement, basic tactics.
- Intermediate: Openings, strategy, and time management.
- Advanced: Tournament preparation, endgames, and applying lessons to real-life problem-solving.
About the Organizer
Kameron Rankin — Lichess Profile:
RankinKameron7
- 5K+ matches: over the board + bullet, blitz, rapid, and classical formats.
- Active in tournaments and Swiss systems, familiar with competitive environments.
- Demonstrated growth through puzzle-solving and tactical training.
- Dedicated to mentoring others by teaching not just how to play, but how to think strategically.
“I’ve learned through countless games how discipline, patience, and resilience shape both victory and defeat. My goal is to help others harness those lessons to succeed — on the board, and in life. We can learn together.”
Become a Hatchet Bearer
This initiative is an alternative gateway into the Hatchet Bearers ethos.
By engaging in chess and strategic play, participants sharpen their minds, strengthen their resilience,
and prepare to carry the Hatchet — clearing paths through adversity for themselves and their community.
Join Us
- ✅ Sign up for upcoming classes & tournaments
- ✅ Become part of the Hatchet Bearers × DFA Gaming & Chess community
- ✅ Take your first step toward becoming a Bearer
📧 For inquiries: kamau@hb-dfassoc.com
Hatchet Bearers × DFA
Strategy. Resilience. Service.
Leave a Reply