Round 1 Schedule

Registration for Round 1 of the Wilson Cup will begin on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 9:00AM EST. Have your AxeScores ID ready as well as the venue at which you plan to throw in order to register.


Round 1 of the Wilson Cup will take place from Friday March 28 to Sunday, March 30, 2025.


Round 1 competitions are run by the IATF member locations that hosted leagues throughout the Qualification Period.

Players will usually compete at their usual IATF league location, however, competition at another IATF member is possible (see FAQs below).

Round 1 Competition Format

Round 1 of the Wilson Cup is a competition hosted at IATF member venues around the world. Qualifying players compete against each other in a unique match format consisting of 75 hatchet throws and 15 big axe throws. Round 1 will be scored using Premier rules.


Players are divided into heats of up to 4 players. Each player will start on one of 4 targets. They will begin by throwing 15 axes at one target. Players must throw for Clutch on the 5th, 10th and 15th (final) axe.


Following this set of 15 axes, all players will move one target to the right, with the player on the 4th target moving to the 1st target. They will then continue by throwing another set of 15 axes at this target, again, with the requirement to throw for Clutch on the 5th, 10th and 15th (final) axe.


Following this second set of 15 axes, all players will move one target to the right, with the player on the 4th target moving to the 1st target. They will repeat this process of throwing 15 axes and moving to the right until they have thrown 75 total axes.


Once the 75 hatchet throws are completed, each player will individually throw 15 Big Axes.


All scores will be recorded in AxeScores, however, the throwers and scorekeepers should communicate the total score for each set of 15 axes and the 15 Big Axes to the players to ensure that each set of axes are recorded accurately. It is the responsibility of the throwers to ensure their scores are accurate.

Qualifiers

The IATF and its members hosted over 20,000 rostered players in eligible leagues during the 2024-2025 League Qualification Period. Of these players, more than 2,100 have qualified for Round 1.


Please click the button here to download a PDF of the list of qualifiers. The list is arranged alphabetically by last name, then first name.

How to Register

Congratulations to this year's qualifiers! To compete in Round 1 between Friday, March 28, 2025 Sunday, March 30, 2025, you must register via the IATF store. Registration is $45.00 USD and opens Thursday, March 13.


During registration, please provide your AxeScores ID. This will allow the IATF to correctly identify you as the registrant. Your AxeScores ID can be found on the List of Qualifiers.


Throwers will be asked to declare if they intend to throw out of their Qualifying Club. If you intend to throw Round 1 somewhere else, you will be asked to indicate where so that we may alert the respective venues. All throwers should contact the venue at which they will be throwing for details on when they can throw.


Once you have registered, keep your Shopify receipt handy, you may need to show it when you arrive at Round 1 on March 28th, 29th, or 30th. It is the responsibility of the thrower to verify when their venue is hosting Round 1.

Following Round 1

Following Round 1, the players with the top performances from each participating IATF member organization will advance to Round 2 of the Wilson Cup, held in Toronto in June 2025.


Players' Round 1 performances are ranked among their fellow Qualifying Club players by highest total score of the 75 hatchet throws. Ties are broken by the highest total score from the 15 Big Axe throws. Qualifying season averages will be used if the Big Axe scores do not break the tie.


Round 2 will include 256 players. 67 spots are reserved for winners on the Integrated Tournament Circuit (Grand Slams, Majors, Regionals), last year's IATC Champion, and the winner of Close But No Cigar 2025. Each IATF member organization is allocated a portion of the 189 remaining Round 2 spots based on their total league participation during the Qualification Period. Click the button below for an estimate of the 2025 Round 2 spot allocation.


Players' tournament seed in Round 2 is determined by their Round 1 performance. This means the IATC Champion, Tournament Circuit Winners, and Regionals Winners must register and compete in Round 1 to be seeded in Round 2.


Invitations to Round 2 will begin on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm away from my usual league location on March 28-30. Can I still compete?

Yes, you can still compete on March 28-30 at another IATF venue hosting Round 1. Please indicate the venue when you register. If you have already registered or your plans change, please send an email to the IATF (info@iatf.com) and both IATF venues indicating this change.

 
I'm busy March 28-30, can I compete on another day?

No, Round 1 heats must be completed March 28 to 30. Round 1 is the first round of a tournament. With the addition of the required Clutch every 5th throw, we have increased the flexibility for venues to host Round 1 across multiple days and for throwers to plan their participation to best fit their schedule.

 
Can I purchase a registration on a player's behalf?

Yes, however, you must provide the other player's AxeScores ID. Otherwise the IATF will not be able to correctly identify who the registration is for.

I won a bid to the Wilson Cup at a Major/Grand Slam/RATC Tournament on the Integrated Tournament Circuit this year. Do I still need to compete in Round 1?

Yes. Bids awarded via the tournament circuit (Grand Slams, Majors, RATC) are for Rounds 1 AND 2 of the Wilson Cup. Throwers who have won these bids must participate in Round 1 in order to advance to Round 2. Their participation is for seeding purposes only and they will advance regardless of their performance.

Two players are tied after considering the 75 hatchet throws and the 15 Big Axe throws. The players’ qualifying season averages will be used to break the tie. But, what if one of these players only played Standard seasons and the other only played Premier seasons?

Based on analysis of players who compete in both Standard and Premier, the IATF has determined that generally there is a 7 point difference in averages between Premier and Standard. Averages from Standard and Premier seasons will be compared by applying a 7 point addition to the Premier average.

 
VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

Welcome to the culmination of the 2024-2025 IATF Integrated Tournament Circuit and League Season.

Adjustments to the 2025 tournament schedule

  • We've raised the average limit on the Under 55 & 65 Tournaments to Under 60 & 70 Tournaments.
  • The Women's Tournament has been renamed to The Slayer Series to better reflect the inclusive nature of the tournament.
  • We've expanded the most popular tournaments, Big Axe, The Slayer Series, and Doubles, so more throwers can compete for the title.
  • The Close But No Cigar Final will be held on Thursday evening at BATL Port Lands, following the conclusion of The Slayer Series.
  • The Challenger Series Team is back for more fun and games this year, but they've got some new tricks up their sleeves. Stay tuned! 
  • We restructured the schedule on Sunday at Homecoming. Due to popular demand, the top 32 throwers from Round 2 Day 1 of the Wilson Cup will advance to Day 2. There will be more coverage of Wilson Cup matches on the Livestream.
  • ALL FINALS for ALL TOURNAMENTS will take place on Sunday at Homecoming.
  • Ticket release timeline

    THURSDAY, MARCH 13TH AT 6:00PM EST - 50% of all tournament registration (excluding Round 2 and Close But No Cigar) will be released. 50 Homecoming tickets be released.


    THURSDAY, APRIL 3RD AT 6:00PM EST - All remaining ticket will be released, including Round 2 and Close But No Cigar. All Homecoming tickets will be released.

     

    The Awards Ceremony will be held at Homecoming immediately after the final axes are thrown and the after party will go on into the night.


    Join us this year in Toronto, Ontario, Canada for this celebration of champions from around the world!


    Follow @interaxe on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on ticket sales, hotel partners, volunteer opportunities, and more!


    UNDER 60

    Wednesday, June 11, 2025

    90 USD (Approx. 129.50 CAD)

    10:00AM - 1:30PM

    40 Competitors

    BATL Port Lands & Stockyards

    1,080 USD Prize Pool

    • Pool Play Format (Group Stage, then single elim.)
    • This tournament is open to anyone whose 12-month Standard average as listed on AxeScores.com is 60 or below (Premier 53 or below) as of March 7, 2025.
    • IATF standard ruleset (“majority-in” bullseyes and “break-paint” clutches.)
    • 9:00 am registration and practice.
    • 10:00 am Tournament start, 1:30 pm approx. finish.
    • Finals will take place on Sunday, at Homecoming at BATL Pickering.
    • Spectators are free. Spectators will be allowed based on venue capacity.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 1,100 USD (approx. 1,580 CAD)

    1st Place - 440 USD (approx. 630 CAD)

    2nd Place - 220 USD (approx. 315 CAD)

    3rd and 4th Place (tie) - 110 USD each (approx. 160 CAD)

    5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Place (tie) - 55 USD each (approx. 80 CAD)

     

    UNDER 70

    Wednesday, June 11, 2025

    90 USD (Approx. 129.50 CAD)

    2:30PM - 6:30PM

    80 Competitors

    BATL Port Lands & Stockyards

    2,200 USD Prize Pool

    • Pool Play Format (Group Stage, then single elim.)
    • This tournament is open to anyone whose 12-month Standard average as listed on AxeScores.com is 70 or below (Premier 63 or below) as of March 7, 2025.
    • IATF Premier ruleset
    • 1:30 pm registration and practice.
    • 2:30 pm Tournament start, 6:30 pm approx. finish.
    • Finals will take place on Sunday, at Homecoming at BATL Pickering.
    • Spectators are free. Spectators will be allowed based on venue capacity.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 2,200 USD (approx. 3,170 CAD)

    1st Place - 792 USD (approx. 1,140 CAD)

    2nd Place - 396 USD (approx. 570 CAD)

    3rd and 4th Place (tie) - 176 USD each (approx. 250 CAD)

    5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Place (tie) - 88 USD each (approx. 125 CAD)


    9th through 16th Place (tie) - 44 USD each (approx. 60 CAD)

     

    CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR

    Wednesday, June 11, 2025

    90 USD (Approx. 129.50 CAD)

    6:30PM - 10:30PM

    80 Competitors

    BATL Port Lands & Stockyards

    2,200 USD Prize Pool

    • Pool Play Format (Group Stage, then single elim.)
    • This tournament is open to anyone that participated in Round 1 but DID NOT make it into Round 2 of the Wilson Cup.
    • IATF Premier ruleset
    • 5:30 pm registration and practice.
    • 6:30 pm Tournament start, 10:30 pm approx. finish.
    • The Final game will take place on Thursday evening at Port Lands after the conclusion of the Women's Tournament. The winner of CBNC will enter Round 2 of the Wilson Cup as the 256th seed at BATL Port Lands on Saturday.
    • Spectators are free. Spectators will be allowed based on venue capacity.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 2,200 USD (approx. 3,170 CAD)

    1st Place - 792 USD (approx. 1,140 CAD)

    2nd Place - 396 USD (approx. 570 CAD)

    3rd and 4th Place (tie) - 176 USD each (approx. 250 CAD)

    5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Place (tie) - 88 USD each (approx. 125 CAD)


    9th through 16th Place (tie) - 44 USD each (approx. 60 CAD)

     

    BIG AXE

    Thursday, June 12, 2025

    90 USD (Approx. 129.50 CAD)

    10:00AM - 2:00PM

    64 Competitors

    BATL Port Lands & Stockyards

    1,500 USD Prize Pool

    • Pool Play Format (Group Stage, then single elim.)
      *NOTE: In the group stage, the Big Axe Tournament will be best 2 rounds of out 3 match format.
    • This tournament is open to anyone
    • IATF Standard ruleset
    • 9:00 am registration and practice.
    • 10:00 am Tournament start, 2:00 pm approx. finish.
    • Tie-breaker is sudden death Premier rules.
    • Finals will take place on Sunday, at Homecoming at BATL Pickering.
    • Spectators are free. Spectators will be allowed based on venue capacity.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 1,500 USD (approx. 2,160 CAD)

    1st Place - 600 USD (approx. 860 CAD)

    2nd Place - 300 USD (approx. 430 CAD)

    3rd and 4th Place (tie) - 150 USD each (approx. 215 CAD)

    5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Place (tie) - 75 USD each (approx. 105 CAD)

    THE SLAYER SERIES

    Thursday, June 12, 2025

    90 USD (Approx. 129.50 CAD)

    3:00PM - 8:00PM

    128 Competitors

    BATL Port Lands & Stockyards

    3,000 USD Prize Pool

    • Pool Play Format (Group Stage, then single elim.)
    • This tournament is open to any thrower who meaningfully identifies as a trans or cis woman, non-binary person, or other marginalized gender.
    • IATF Premier ruleset
    • 2:00 pm registration and practice.
    • 3:00 pm Tournament start, 8:00 pm approx. finish.
    • Finals will take place on Sunday, at Homecoming at BATL Pickering.
    • Spectators are free. Spectators will be allowed based on venue capacity.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 3,000 USD (approx. 4,320 CAD)

    1st Place - 1,080 USD (approx. 1,550 CAD)

    2nd Place - 540 USD (approx. 775 CAD)

    3rd and 4th Place (tie) - 240 USD each (approx. 345 CAD)

    5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Place (tie) - 120 USD each (approx. 175 CAD)


     9th through 16th Place (tie) - 60 USD each (approx. 85 CAD)

    DOUBLES

    Friday, June 13, 2025

    130 USD (Approx. 190 CAD)

    10:00AM - 5:30PM

    128 Teams

    BATL Port Lands & Stockyards

    4,000 USD Prize Pool

    • Pool Play Format (Group Stage, then single elim.)
    • This tournament is open to any team of 2. Only ONE registration per team.
    • IATF standard ruleset (“majority-in” bullseyes and “break-paint” clutches)
    • 9:00 am registration and practice.
    • 10:00 am Tournament start, 5:30 pm approx. finish.
    • Finals will take place on Sunday, at Homecoming at BATL Pickering.
    • Spectators are free. Spectators will be allowed based on venue capacity.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 4,000 USD (approx. 5,760 CAD)

    1st Place - 1,440 USD (approx. 2,075 CAD)

    2nd Place - 720 USD (approx. 1,035 CAD)

    3rd and 4th Place (tie) - 320 USD each (approx. 460 CAD)

    5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Place (tie) - 160 USD each (approx. 230 CAD)


     9th through 16th Place (tie) - 80 USD each (approx. 115 CAD)

    SKILLS

    Friday, June 13, 2025

    5:30PM

    BATL Port Lands

    MORE DETAILS COMING SOON

    WILSON CUP ROUND 2 - DAY 1

    Saturday, June 14, 2025

    157.50 USD (Approx. 225 CAD)

    Wilson Cup Round 2 - Day 1

    256 Competitors

    10:00AM - 3:00PM

    BATL Port Lands, Stockyards, Vaughn, & Pickering

    • Double Elimination Format
    • Invitation Only
    • The 256 top global players that advance to Round 2 will receive an email with instructions on how to pay their registration fee and to claim their spot.
    • Round 2 registration includes a ticket to Homecoming on Sunday, June 16 at Pickering.
    • 9:00am registration and practice.
    • 10:00am Tournament start, 3:00pm approx. finish.
    • Spectators for Day 1 will be free and allowed based on the venue's capacity.

    WILSON CUP ROUND 2 - DAY 2

    Sunday, June 15, 2025

    23,500 USD Prize Pool

    Wilson Cup Round 2 - Day 2 FINALS

    32 Competitors

    10:00AM - 5:30PM

    BATL Pickering

    • Double Elimination Format
    • Final 32 players remaining in the Wilson Cup.
    • 9:00am registration.
    • 10:00am tournament start, 5:30pm approx. finish.
    • Spectators are all welcome but must have purchased a Homecoming ticket to attend.
    Prize Pool Breakdown

    TOTAL PRIZE POOL - 23,500 USD (approx. 33,800 CAD)

    1st Place - 9,400 USD (approx. 13,500 CAD)

    2nd Place - 3,525 USD (approx. 5,000 CAD)

    3rd Place - 2,350 USD each (approx. 3,400 CAD)


    4th Place - 1,410 (approx. 2,000 CAD)

    5th & 6th Place (tie) - 587.50 USD each (approx. 840 CAD)


    7th & 8th Place (tie) - 470 USD each (approx. 675 CAD)


    9th through 12th Place (tie) - 282 USD each (approx. 400 CAD)


    13th through 16th Place (tie) - 235 USD each (approx. 335 CAD)


    17th through 24th Place (tie) - 188 USD each (approx. 270 CAD)


    25th through 32nd Place (tie) - 141 USD each (approx. 200 CAD)

    HOMECOMING

    Sunday, June 15, 2025

    50 USD (approx. 72 CAD)

    10:00AM - LATE

    BATL Pickering

    • Doors will open at 10:00AM.
    • Spectators can start watching the Wilson Cup Finals at 10:00AM live inside
    • Spectators can start watching the Official IATF Livestream inside or outside in one of our viewing tents equipped with large flat-screen TVs so you don’t miss any of the heart pounding action.
    • A large outdoor bar serving ice cold cans all day from 10:00AM. The indoor bar will also be open and serving refreshments at 10:00AM.
    • Multiple large tents to provide shade or shelter from the elements.
    • Outdoor games to keep you entertained between matches.
    • The annual Axe Market draws vendors from across the Federation!
    • No dress code! June in Toronto is typically hot, but can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you decide your ensemble.
    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    We are happy to announce that we have partnered with two hotels to offer discounted rooms for the week of IATC. For more information about getting around Toronto, Pickering, and the IATC host venues, see our Travel Guide.

    175 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON

    www.torontodonvalleyhotel.com


    For 10% off best available rate, book with code: SMERF
    Please note that this rate is only available for online bookings.

    Toronto Don Valley Inn & Suites is a 3-star hotel in North York that is an easy driving distance to all 4 host BATL locations. Their amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness facility, pet friendly options, and onsite parking.


    Driving distances
    • 8.5 miles (13.7kms) to Port Lands
    • 19.3 miles (31.1kms) to Pickering
    • 17.9 miles (28.8kms) to Stockyards
    • 16.8 miles (27kms) to Vaughn

    Transit options
    • Catch the 100A Flemingdon Park to Broadview Station bus on Wynford Drive. This bus takes you 30 stops (approx. 26 minutes) to Broadview station. From there, you can get on the subway east or west to your destination.
    • Walk south to Eglinton Avenue and catch the 34 Eglinton East to Eglinton Station. This bus takes you 18 stops (approx. 25 minutes) to Eglinton station. From there, you can get on the subway north or south to your destination.

    More details on booking this hotel

    Desktop booking
    1. Visit the hotel website - www.torontodonvalleyhotel.com
    2. Select arrival/departure dates, # of rooms, # of guests, Book Now
    3. Special codes or rates
    4. Promo code: SMERF, Apply
    5. Complete your booking

    Cell phone
    1. Visit the hotel website - www.torontodonvalleyhotel.com
    2. Book Now
    3. Select arrival/departure dates, # of rooms, # of guests, Book Now
    4. Arrow down (besides "your stay")
    5. Special Codes or Rates (below "select guests", at bottom of the page)
    6. Promo code: SMERF, Apply
    7. Update
    8. Complete your booking


    Notes
    • The discounted rates are for online bookings only.
    • Check-in time: any time after 3 pm
    • Check-out time: 12 pm (noon)
    • Parking: $11.95/vehicle per night plus HST
    • Incidental hold/deposit is required at the time of check-in

    Residence and Conference Centre - Toronto Downtown

    THIS HOTEL WILL SELL OUT SO BOOK SOON!

    80 Cooperage St, Toronto, ON

    stayrcc.com/locations/toronto-downtown


    For 12% off best available rate, book with code: IATC2025
    Please note that this code is only valid from June 8th to 16th, 2023. Any nights booked outside these dates will be at the regular rate.

    The Residence and Conference Centre is the George Brown downtown residences converted into a 3-star hotel in the summer months. It is an easy walk to Port Lands and the Westin Harbour Castle (the location of Prom). This is a great option if you want to travel with friends as many rooms include two bedrooms and a kitchenette.


    Driving distances
    • 1.3 miles (2.1kms) to Port Lands (walking distance!)
    • 26 miles (41.8kms) to Pickering
    • 8.8 miles (14.2kms) to Stockyards
    • 20.6 miles (33.2kms) to Vaughn
    Transit options
    • Walk south to Cherry St and Mill St and catch the 121D Esplanade-River to Union Station for 10 stops (approx. 16 minutes) to Union station. From there you can get on the TTC or GO transit.
    • Walk north to King St and catch the 504B King St to Broadview Station for 11 stops (approx. 13 minutes) to Broadview station. From there you can get on the subway east or west to your destination.
    • Walk west along Front St for 1.6 miles (2.6kms), approximately 30 minutes to Union station. From there you can get on the TTC or GO transit.

    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    The IATF is excited to introduce our new IATF App, set to replace the AxeScores App after March 7, 2025, at the end of the League Qualification Period.

    The new IATF App will offer both free and paid features. The free, ad-supported version will continue to provide essential league stats and standings at no additional cost, while the subscription tier (priced at $2.99 per month) will offer additional benefits, such as extended player development views, personal achievements, eligibility for IATF Tournament Rank points, discounts in the IATF store, and much, much more. By subscribing, you will also be directly supporting the continued growth and development of the IATF!

    You may wonder why we're shifting to an ad-supported, subscription model despite the AxeScores Management Fee. That fee, introduced a little over 2 years ago, is and will continue to be a fee to the IATF Venues & Organizations (i.e. MANIAX, Urban Axes, etc…) for their usage, management, and support of the league management tool provided by AxeScores.

    We understand that many throwers have considered the $8 league fee as money going towards improvements for the AxeScores App. That $8 was never for App improvements. It has always been a service fee to the IATF Venues & Organizations. The AxeScores App was provided at no cost to the community, which has become unsustainable.

    The new $2.99 a month subscription is to support the development and tech support for the new IATF App, which will allow us to provide more and better tools for the community. AxeScores will continue to exist as management software used by the axe throwing venues.

    The transition to the IATF App opens the door to future features beyond thrower statistics, including tournament registration, prize pool payouts, and more. Subscribing helps prioritize and enhance app functionality, supporting the future of the IATF and its app. As all league members subscribe, we can offer even more exciting services!

    The new IATF App will be available for download in the Google Play Store and the Apple Store soon. The AxeScores App will be retired as of March 8, 2025.

    Basic Season Standings & Playoff Stats: Season Rank, W-L-OTL Record, High Score, Avg Score, Throw Counts, Clutch Call Rate for the current Qualification Season or last 6 months, whichever is longer.

    Enhanced Season Stats: All stats included with the free version for the thrower’s career + Perfect Rounds, Perfect Matches

    Competitor Research: Aggregate, historical statistics on opponents’ Clutch Call Rate, Clutch Success Rate, Big Axe Percentages, Big Axe Scores, etc… for both league and tournament play.

    Details about the Tournament Rank coming very soon!

    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    You've got questions about the Collins Rating System, we've got answers!

    The Basics

    What is CRS and how does it affect players in normal league play and tournament play?

    A player's Collins Rating is a number determined by their play history. A higher number generally means they have had better past results. Players' ratings are a measurement and do not affect normal league or tournament standings. Ratings are adjusted based on the results of each match in normal leagues and most tournaments. At the hosts' discretion, tournaments can use the players' ratings to seed tournaments.

    How is CRS calculated?

    The details on how ratings are calculated are available here. In lay terms, the ratings of the two players in match are compared before the match begins to determine an expected result. This expectation is compared to the actual result in the match, considering rounds won/lost/tied. If the expectation matches the result, no rating adjustment is made. If the expectation varies from the result, an adjustment is made to the players' ratings to more closely align the next expectation with the result. This means the rating is self-correcting.

     

    What role does CRS serve?

    The ratings can be a useful measure of progress relative to the players in ones league. They are a useful measure for comparing relative skill.

    How can I win a match and lose points?

    The rating should not be viewed as "points", it is a relative measure. If the difference between two opponents ratings creates an expectation that the higher rated player should win all three rounds and they win only two rounds, the higher rated player's rating will be adjusted down and the lower rated player's rating will be adjusted up. Essentially, the players are more evenly matched than their original ratings predicted.

    Why do I lose CRS for rounds won or tied?

    Won rounds always count positively into a player's match result. Rounds tied at 27 never count negatively into a player's match result. Tied rounds can contribute negatively if the player was expected to win more rounds than they did.

    What is the benefit of CRS over the regular 2-1-0 point system? Why does it exist?

    Assuming the 2-1-0 point system is referring to how league seaon standings are determined, these two serve different functions. The 2-1-0 system generates the standings for a particular season. CRS offers a continuity over a player's career and is more nuanaced because it considers not the match result, but round results.

    Why isn’t CRS used for anything?

    At a tournament host's discretion, tournaments can use the players' ratings to seed tournaments. While this isn't a common practice to date, it has been used for this purpose.

    TOURNAMENTS & PLAYOFFS

    Can we see how tournaments and playoffs affects our CRS?

    Currently, since there is no match view for playoff and tournament matches, we cannot. This match view will be introduced in a future update.

    How is playoffs CRS weighted and determined?

    Calculation of rating adjustments for playoff matches and regular league season matches is the same up to a weighting factor. Playoff matches are weighted 20% higher than regular season matches to reflect the increased stakes. Playoff rating adjustments are still based on the difference between the match expectation, derived from the players' starting ratings, and the match result. The weighting means that when adjustments are warranted, they move the players' ratings a little more.

    At what point do you get a number instead of a %?

    The top 300 rated players are numbered. Below that number, percentile is used to indicate standings.

    What are the differences between how matches effect CRS between leagues and tournaments?

    Calculation of rating adjustments for tournament matches and league matches is the same up to a weighting factor. Tournament matches are weighted the same a playoff matches or sightly higher, depending on the size and scope of the tournament to reflect the increased stakes, and to encourage normalization of ratings between players that don't often compete. Tournament rating adjustments are still based on the difference between the match expectation, derived from the players' starting ratings, and the match result. The weighting means that when adjustments are warranted, they move the players' ratings a little more.

    Are there plans to incorporate CRS into anything? Like a top 100 invitational tournament or something like that?

    There are no current plans to use CRS in this way, though the concept has been raised in discussion internallly at the IATF, as well as with IATF members and in community feedback.

    NITTY GRITTY

    What are the outer boundaries for when you can no longer get CRS from a match?

    In a normal league match, a difference in opponents' ratings of greater than 636 creates an expectation that the higher rated player will win all three rounds. If the higher rated player does win all three rounds, no adjustment is made to either players' rating.

    Does CRS count throwing a 27/81 as a loss for the higher ranked thrower?

    No, since CRS v1.2 (which dates back to 2020), ties at 27 never count negatively for the higher ranked player. Ties at 27 represent the only secanrio where players' combined adjustment is not zero. Meaning, it is possible for a both players to be adjusted upward or for the absolute value of one player's adjustment to be unequal to the other's.

    Can y'all share the algorithm for calculating CRS gains? I'm a software engineer, and I'd love to look at the code that calculates that. Point me to a GitHub repo or code sandbox?

    The math to support the calculation is here. The code implementation is not open-source.

     

    When do inactive throwers drop off the boards?

    Players who have been inactive for over are year are not displayed in the lists.

    Is the CRS ranking shown on my profile for standard/premier/big axe?

    Currently the rating on player profiles is their Standard Rating. Premier Ratings will be added in a coming update. Big Axe matches are in the recreational category and do not produce CRS adjustments.

    Still have questions? Check out the CRS page or email us at info@iatf.com!

    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    Updates to the AxeScores app and AxeScores.com

    LIVE UPDATES

    We have made a series of updates to AxeScores over the past few weeks to address features and bugs reported via Upvoty, by IATF members, and via email.

     

    The following updates are live on AxeScores now:

     

    • We’ve updated the 81 Club and the 75+ Average Club. Both Clubs now have separate views for Standard and Premier.

    • Some Standard 81s were not previously reporting on the Club list; the underlying issue has been resolved and this list will stay current, updating weekly on Mondays.

    • The (unofficial) Wilson Cup qualification status can be viewed on AxeScores.com at this link: https://axescores.com/iatc/qualification or by selecting “IATC 2025” from the AxeScores home page. The qualification status is intended to give players looking to qualify for Wilson Cup a sense of where they are in that process. The official list will be produced after the qualification period ends March 7, 2025.

    • Some Recreational leagues, mostly related to past tournaments, appeared on players’ profile stats. The underlying issue has been addressed and these should no longer appear there.

    • Premier playoff Clutch statistics are now separated between 5 and 7-point clutches on AxeScores.com. A coming update to the AxeScores mobile app will bring this feature to that platform.

    PENDING UPDATES

    Several AxeScores updates are in progress.

     

    We are aware of some impossibly high scores present in the stats. We’ve been working to understand how these happen and how best to address them. Having done that, these results are beginning to be corrected. It is a gradual process that should be completed by mid-January.

     

    The next update to the AxeScores mobile app will bring some highly requested features:

     

    • Premier CRS on players’ profiles; this will be in addition to Standard CRS for players with both ratings.

    • Wilson Cup (unofficial) qualification status will be included on player profiles.

    • Updates to the 81 Club, 75+ Average club, and Premier playoff clutch stats to the mobile app.

    • Google and Facebook have some coming updates to their social login flow. These should have little impact on the user, but it is a necessary update that we are spending the time to ensure works as expected.

    Thank you for reading.

     

    • If you have any questions, email us at info@iatf.com
    • Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and updates.
    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    Find details for each Regional Axe Throwing Championship weekend here.

    NORTHWEST REGIONAL AXE THROWING CHAMPIONSHIPS

    EVENT

    DATE

    TIME

    PRICE

    STYLE

    RULES

    REG

    Open Practice

    Friday, Nov 8

    4:30PM to close

    $30

    Unlimited throwing

    N/A

    N/A

    Big Axe

    Saturday, Nov 9

    10:00AM check-in & warm-up, 11:00AM tournament start

    $70

    Double Elimination

    Standard

    IATF

    Doubles

    Saturday, Nov 9

    Approx. 1 hour after Big Axe finish

    $115

    Double Elimination

    TBD

    IATF

    Regional Marquee Tournament

    Sunday, Nov 10

    10:00AM check-in & warm-up, 11:00AM tournament start

    $90

    Pool Play into Double Elimination

    Premier

    IATF

    No strangers to the Tournament Circuit, Axe Kickers has kicked up a party plan worthy of the Northwest that is sure to draw throwers from across the far flung region.

    Axe Kickers opens the doors at 4:30PM on Friday for an evening of open throwing for just $30USD until they close. Big Axe and Doubles tournaments will be held on Saturday with the marquee Regional Axe Throwing Championships happening on Sunday.

    There will be a food truck on site for Saturday and Sunday. To whet your appetite, Axe Kickers has arranged for a special discount for throwers with their neighbors, NimBin Pot Shop.

    Only a 10 minute drive from the SeaTac Airport, there are loads of hotels in the area for you to rest your head between axe throws.

    Register for the Northeast Regional Axe Throwing Championships before October 10th to get the special Early Bird rate.

    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    The International Axe Throwing Federation has redrawn the North American regions to more accurately reflect local throwing communities and foster long term growth.

    The most recent iteration of the IATF regions was drawn in 2020 when COVID-19 restrictions prevented or discouraged cross-border travel. This led to some regions being overly dense, geographically enormous, or both.

    The new IATF regions in North America, effective immediately:

    While the European and Pacific regions are continuing to grow, they will remain as they are for the time being. We will revisit those regions as necessary in the future.

    Considerations for creating the above regions:

    • Relative size of thrower base
    • Geographical size and travel considerations
    • Number of venues and thrower hubs within proposed regions
    • Historical and cultural relationships within proposed regions
    • Feedback from IATF Member Owners, Panel of Throwers representatives, and the community-at-large
    Huron - Northeast Region border in Ontario

    The Province of Ontario is divided between the Huron and Northeast IATF Regions. (See Map)

    Simcoe County and Durham Region are included in the IATF Huron Region, along with all other Ontario municipalities to the south and west.

    Northern Ontario, Muskoka District, Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough and Northumberland County are included in the IATF Northeast Region, along with all other Ontario municipalities to the north and east.

    Huron - Central divide in Michigan

    The State of Michigan is divided between the Huron and Central IATF Regions.

    The Lower Peninsula is included in the Huron IATF Region.

    The Upper Peninsula is included in the Central IATF Region.

    States and Provinces by IATF Region

    NORTHEAST REGION

    • New Brunswick
    • Newfoundland and Labrador
    • Nova Scotia
    • Ontario - excl. Southwestern
    • Prince Edward Island
    • Quebec
    • Connecticut
    • Maine
    • Massachusetts
    • New Hampshire
    • New York
    • Rhode Island
    • Vermont

    HURON REGION

    • Ontario - Southwestern
    • Michigan - Lower Peninsula

    NORTHWEST REGION

    • Alberta
    • British Columbia
    • Saskatchewan
    • Idaho
    • Montana
    • Oregon
    • Washington
    • Wyoming

    CENTRAL REGION

    • Manitoba
    • Colorado
    • Illinois
    • Iowa
    • Kansas
    • Michigan - Upper Peninsula
    • Minnesota
    • Missouri
    • Nebraska
    • North Dakota
    • South Dakota
    • Wisconsin

    SOUTHEAST REGION

    • Alabama
    • Arkansas
    • Florida
    • Georgia
    • Louisiana
    • Mississippi
    • North Carolina
    • South Carolina
    • Tennessee

    SOUTHWEST REGION

    • Arizona
    • California
    • Nevada
    • New Mexico
    • Oklahoma
    • Texas
    • Utah

    EAST REGION

    • Delaware
    • District of Columbia
    • Indiana
    • Kentucky
    • Maryland
    • New Jersey
    • Ohio
    • Pennsylvania
    • Virginia
    • West Virginia
    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    Last summer, the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF) established an annual integrated circuit of tournaments to foster competition among IATF players. Organizing tournaments into a circuit successfully increased the profile of these tournaments, their hosts, their competitors and the IATF. We also learned a great deal from the inaugural season and have made some adjustments to the Integrated Tournament Circuit based on our learnings and the community’s feedback.

    TL;DR at the end of the document.

    Unified IATF Axe Throwing Season.

    The Tournament Circuit will start and end in March at the same time as the League Qualification Season. This year’s qualification period ends March 7, 2025.

    Grand Slam and Major tournaments held between the end of the throwing season and that year’s IATC will be part of the following year’s path to IATC.

    Changes to Major Tournaments

    Number of Grand Slam reserved spots

    Only the 2nd and 3rd place winners at all future Majors will be guaranteed a spot at a Grand Slam.

    Grand Slam spots dictated by Major

    The 2nd and 3rd place winners’ reserved spots will be for a specific, predetermined future Grand Slam. The Grand Slam will be selected based on geographical location and position on the Tournament Circuit calendar. See below for 2024-2025 Tournament Circuit Calendar.

    The IATF is making these changes:

    • To streamline and simplify the process for throwers to move from Major to Grand Slam over the course of the Tournament Circuit.

    • To simplify the process of determining which throwers have earned reserved spots.

    • To increase the number of winners who take advantage of their Grand Slam spots.

    • To reduce the workload to the IATF team in assessing, tracking, and coordinating Major winners over the course of multiple throwing seasons.

    The 2024-2025 IATF Tournament Circuit

    The schedule of IATF Tournament Circuit events is as follows:

    Grand Slams

    Event

    Host

    City

    Date

    Info

    Urban Open

    Urban Axes

    Baltimore, MD, USA

    Aug 2-4, 2024

    UK Open

    Valhalla North Axe Throwing

    Newton Aycliffe, England, UK

    Aug 16-18

    Asia Pacific Axe Throwing Championship

    MANIAX Axe Throwing

    Sydney, NSW, AUS

    Sep 27-29, 2024

    The Choptober Challenge

    Chopper's Hatchet House

    Cherry Hill, NJ, USA

    Oct 25-27, 2024

    Golden State Grand Slam

    LA AX

    North Hollywood, CA, USA

    February 2025

    US Championship

    Ace Axe Throwing

    Homestead, PA, USA

    March 2025

    The top 4 finishers from each of these events’ marquee tournaments will be reserved a spot in Rounds 1 & 2 of the Wilson Cup.

    Majors

    Event

    Host

    City

    Date

    Grand Slam

    Info

    Red, White and Bullseyes

    Urban Axes

    Somerville, MA, USA

    June 28-30, 2024

    Choptober Challenge

    Urban Open: Swiss Tournament

    Urban Axes

    Baltimore, MD, USA

    Aug 2-4, 2024

    US Championship

    Shieldmaiden Slam

    Valhalla North Axe Throwing

    Newton Aycliffe, England, UK

    Aug 16, 2024

    UK Open 2025

    Unicorn Classic

    The Range

    Priddis, AB, CAN

    Aug 31, 2024

    Golden State Grand Slam

    Labour Day Classic

    The Range

    Priddis, AB, CAN

    Sept 1, 2024

    Golden State Grand Slam

    BAT Outta Hell

    Battle Axe Throwing

    Wollongong, NSW, AUS

    Aug 30-Sept 1, 2024

    APATC

    Charlotte Open

    BATL Axe Throwing

    Charlotte, NC, USA

    Sept 7-8, 2024

    Choptober Challenge

    Florida Man Games

    Game of Axes

    Boynton Beach, FL, USA

    Sept 21-22, 2024

    Choptober Challenge

    Three Ring Circuit*

    Detroit Axe

    Detroit, MI, USA

    Oct 11-13, 2024

    US Championship

    Pink Ribbon Classic

    Axe Thro Co

    San Diego, CA, USA

    Oct 19-20, 2024

    Golden State Grand Slam

    Urban Ladyblades

    Urban Axes

    Durham, NC, USA

    January 2025

    US Championship

    Urban Madness

    Urban Axes

    Durham, NC, USA

    January 2025

    US Championship

    Battle Axe Open

    Battle Axe Throwing

    Wollongong, NSW, AUS

    Jan 24-25, 2025

    APATC

    Seattle Throwdown

    Axe Kickers

    Seattle, WA, USA

    Jan 25-26, 2025

    Golden State Grand Slam

    Winter Axe Games

    Game of Axes

    Boynton Beach, FL, USA

    February 2025

    US Championship

    Going Up Cup

    LumberJaxs Tamworth

    Tamworth, England, UK

    February 2025

    UK Open

    Warriors' March To Glory

    Warriors Axe Throwing

    Cobourg, ON, CAN

    March 2025

    Urban Open

    Last Ditch To Canada

    Lumber Punks Axe Throwing

    Melbourne, VIC, AUS

    March 2025

    APATC

    The winner from each of these events’ marquee tournaments will be reserved a spot in Rounds 1 & 2 of the 2025 Wilson Cup.

    * These majors include two marquee tournaments that will each reserve the winner a spot in the Wilson Cup.

    Players Declining A Reserved Spot

    Clarification on current system: Throwers who have earned a reserved spot in Rounds 1 & 2 of the Wilson Cup may decline their invitation. This spot is then returned to the general pool of spots awarded to throwers through the League Qualification Path and will be assigned to a member venue according to representation.

    New for this season of the Tournament Circuit, throwers will have the option to decline a bid when it is awarded* OR they may self-identify prior to competition as ineligible to receive a bid. If the winning thrower initiates either of these options, the bid will immediately trickle down to the next eligible thrower at the tournament.

    *The thrower must decline within 24 hours of the conclusion of the tournament and make their intention clear to the tournament host. Otherwise, the bid will be treated like any other Round 2 invitation and upon refusal, will reenter the general pool of Round 2 bids for League Qualification.


    TL;DR

    The 2nd and 3rd place finishers from Major tournaments will be reserved spots at a specific Grand Slam.

    Regionals will be held in November 2024.

    Throwers may remove themselves from contention for a Wilson Cup bid prior to or immediately following a tournament.

    VIEW RULEBOOK PAGE

    The LaFace of the Community award goes to a member of the community selected by the community for their contributions to axe throwing and for exemplifying the best of IATF ideals. The recipients of this award is a community member who leads by example to create a positive and supportive competitor-friendly community. They promote positive sportsperson-like behaviour and are leaders in our community. Not all leaders lead from the front and a deserving person might be working diligently behind the scenes to make axe throwing the best sport and the best community it can be.

    Winners of the 2024 LaFace Awards:

    Chloe "Feisty" Lyttle

    from Battle Axe Throwing

    Here's what the community had to say about Chloe:

    "Chloe is one of the most community focused people I have ever met. She is always striving to make sure the venue she runs with her partner is a happy, comfortable and safe place for anyone to come and have a throw. She is always actively looking for ways to make the throwing community she has helped create be a fun and exciting place to be a part of; dedicating so much time and effort... to make sure that the leagues and events that are run go smoothly and are a blast to be in. She is such an amazing hard worker when it comes to the axe throwing community, not afraid to say her opinion... and fighting to help the community be able to keep growing when we are so far away from the majority of throwers."

    "Chloe has spent her life in axe throwing working to build community, engage newer throwers in the sport, and lift up everyone around her. There are so many of us that wouldn't be throwing today if it weren't for Chloe. She goes out of her way to make everyone feel welcome. In a sport that features a majority of male players, Chloe works tirelessly to make sure people of all genders feel just as much a part of the community as anyone else. I've witnessed her stand up to bullies when necessary... She leads by example and it's easy to see her positive impact in axe throwing communities around Australia and the world."

    "Chloe Lyttle is a fun-loving, friendly, and welcoming member of Battle Axe Wollongong. She is extremely dedicated and always goes above and beyond for her community. Chloe always makes sure to always have time to help the members of her community, whether it's assisting people to learn or achieve their goals. Anytime someone is unsure of their ability she is always by their side to cheer them on and encourage them. Whenever someone wants to try a new throwing technique she will always watch and give advice if they need/want it. Chloe is extremely passionate about axe-throwing and is the most community-driven person I have ever met. Even when she is unwell she will come into the venue to get work done, check on everyone, and make sure everything is running smoothly. She has built such a strong and trusting community at Battle Axe Wollongong, it is a safe space for so many people. She works hard both from the front when running nights, always promoting sportsperson-like behaviour. As well as behind the scenes as an example; when themed events are on, she will always hand draw on the boards to make special games for the community.

    Joey "The Hat" Nessler

    from Chopper's Hatchet House

    Photo credit: Matt Traino

    Here's what the community had to say about Joey:

    "Joey is the epitome of community support. He both supports and develops creativity within the axe throwing world. Each time a new game or skill is brought in, he fully supports the spread of that knowledge and fun. “Take this back to your home venue” he says. And we do! This helps nurture the growth of the community through fun that is outside of the same old competitive premier/standard format."

    "Joe not only wears many hats at Choppers (no pun intended) helping out with organizing two of the biggest tournaments in the IATF Circuit (Countess Cup and Choptober), but he is the man behind the Perfect Game Challenge Coins. He has single-handedly started something incredible that has brought the community together and given throwers something to strive for when it comes to getting their perfect game(s) whether it be a Standard, Premier, or Big Axe 81. Joe in my mind deserves this award more than anyone else and I’m not the only one that thinks that!"

    "...he just is the community, he never stops serving this community with love and support and guidance for everyone worldwide!"

    "Always there to lend a helping hand and the father of the axe throwing challenge coin..."


    47 different community members were nominated, and over 550 people voted to award this year's LaFace of the Community Award.


    OUR SPORT  ·  OUR COMMUNITY ·  OUR FEDERATION

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