As axe throwing has evolved from a backwoods pastime into a legitimate competitive sport, several governing bodies have emerged to standardize rules, organize competitions, and grow the community. Understanding these organizations is essential for anyone looking to take their throwing to the next level.
What Are Axe Throwing Governing Bodies?
Governing bodies in axe throwing serve the same purpose as organizations like the NFL, FIFA, or PGA in their respective sports. They establish official rules, maintain safety standards, organize tournaments, rank competitors, and work to grow the sport globally.
These organizations ensure that when you compete in a sanctioned event, everyone follows the same rules and competes on equal footing, whether you're throwing in Portland, Austin, or halfway around the world.
World Axe Throwing League (WATL)
WATL is one of the largest axe throwing organizations globally. Founded in 2017, it has grown rapidly and now includes member venues across North America, Europe, and beyond.
Key Features of WATL:
- Standardized target dimensions and throwing distances
- Official scoring system and rule book
- Annual World Championship tournaments
- Global ranking system for competitive throwers
- Certified referee and coach programs
International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF)
The IATF is another major organization that predates WATL, having been established in 2016. It focuses on creating a unified international standard for competitive axe throwing.
IATF Highlights:
- Different target and scoring specifications than WATL
- Focus on international competition standards
- Member venues worldwide
- Regular tournament circuits
- Emphasis on safety protocols
National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF)
The NATF emerged as an alternative organization, particularly popular in Canada and the northern United States. It offers another set of rules and tournament structures for competitive throwers.
NATF Characteristics:
- Unique scoring zones and point values
- Different axe specifications allowed
- Strong presence in certain regions
- Active tournament schedule
Why Governing Bodies Matter
You might wonder why these organizations matter if you're just throwing for fun. Even recreational throwers benefit from the standards these bodies establish:
- Safety: Rules about axe types, throwing distances, and lane safety protect everyone
- Consistency: When you visit any sanctioned venue, you know what to expect
- Progression: Clear pathways from beginner to competitive levels
- Community: A connected network of throwers worldwide
- Legitimacy: Helps axe throwing gain recognition as a real sport
Getting Started in Competitive Throwing
Ready to move beyond casual throwing and enter the competitive world? Here's how to get started:
- Join a league: Celtic Axe Throwers offers weekly leagues that follow official rules
- Practice regularly: Consistency is key in competitive throwing
- Learn the rules: Study the rule books of whichever organization your venue follows
- Connect with other throwers: The community is welcoming and full of tips
- Enter tournaments: Start with local events before moving to larger competitions
At Celtic Axe Throwers, we follow standardized rules and can help you prepare for competitive throwing. Our coaches understand the nuances of different governing body rules and can help you develop your skills for tournament play.