Full Breakdown
Turf War Erupts in New York's Backgammon Scene
1/20/2026, 2:38:48 AM
The Backgammon Schism in Greenpoint
A significant division has emerged within New York City's backgammon community, particularly in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn. This conflict began in July 2023 when a group of players, dissatisfied with the NYC Backgammon Club's structured environment and fees, established the Greenpoint Backgammon Club. The new club promotes a more casual atmosphere, hosting weekly game nights without any fees, contrasting sharply with the NYC Backgammon Club's $10 pay-for-play model.
The split was catalyzed when players arrived at a scheduled NYC Backgammon Club event at Scrappeland bar, only to find it canceled due to low turnout. Undeterred, they decided to play independently, leading to the formation of the Greenpoint Backgammon Club, which quickly attracted around 20 members.
Tensions Rise Over Control
Remington Davenport, the founder of the NYC Backgammon Club, attempted to assert control over the situation by sending messages to the Greenpoint players, indicating they could not operate on her "territory" without her approval and financial contribution. Davenport's approach included trying to integrate the Greenpoint group into her "ambassador" program, which oversees smaller game nights under the NYC Backgammon Club's banner.
Despite the tensions, Davenport later claimed to have resolved the conflict, stating she reached out to the Greenpoint group via Instagram to express her support and willingness to send players their way. She acknowledged that the friction had been exacerbated by personal challenges in her life, but emphasized her commitment to fostering a community through backgammon.
Community and Inclusivity Efforts
Davenport founded the NYC Backgammon Club in April 2023, aiming to create a welcoming environment for diverse players. She has since initiated programs like "Girls who Gammon" and "Gays who Gammon," designed to provide safe spaces for underrepresented groups in the backgammon community. Davenport noted that the club has successfully facilitated connections among players, with some even forming romantic relationships.
Criticism of Business Practices
The conflict has drawn criticism of Davenport's business model, with some players labeling it as "bogus." Members of the Greenpoint Backgammon Club have expressed that their group was formed out of a desire for a more inclusive and accessible playing environment, rather than loyalty to any established club. They argue that the NYC Backgammon Club's fee structure and exclusivity do not align with their vision of community gaming.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We just open a board, and whoever wants to play can play,” — Anonymous, Greenpoint Backgammon Club Member
- “I told them, ‘I fully support you guys. I will send people to your club.’ No biggie. I don’t want any trouble or drama,” — Remington Davenport, Founder of NYC Backgammon Club
- “They’re just looking for new opportunities to have an experience and to meet friends, so that’s been super successful,” — Remington Davenport
Conclusion
The backgammon turf war in Greenpoint highlights the ongoing struggle between traditional club structures and emerging grassroots movements within niche communities. As players seek to connect and engage in the game, the future of backgammon in New York City may depend on how these groups navigate their differences and foster inclusivity.
