Name (Throwing Name)

Where They Throw

Nominations

Adeline Neulight (Queen HBO)

Lumberjaxes- Pittsburgh

Adeline has the biggest heart of anyone in axe throwing and she wears that heart on her sleeve. Queen HBO is always there to lend a hand, always there to help the underdog, always there, period. One of the founders of the podcast "An Axe League of Their Own", she's been instrumental in making women feel invited and welcome in this sport. She has proven that women can do it, sometimes better (she did beat Rander for her spot at IATC this year! Haha). Beautiful inside and out, Adeline is the best and deserves this honor!

Alex Hugginson (Kitty)

Lumberjaxs UK

She’s the glue to a great team of throwers in the uk and loved by many all over the world and above she still put a smile on while suffering from mental health

Kitty has made me feel so welcome in the few weeks since I have joined the axe throwing community. She is encouraging and always wants you to be the best. She is a fabulous person and deserves everything good!

Kitty is the welcoming face of my home venue (lumberjaxs UK) and is the reason I actually got into this wonderful sport

She is always positive!! She runs and owns lumberjaxs and is the BEST owner. She is there for everyone even if she is down on herself. She puts every axe Thrower first and teaches them to be the best. She is caring, supportive and absolutely amazing. Everyone loves her. I have never felt so happy at an axe house than I do at lumberjaxs because of her. She also includes other axe houses and IATF trips into the mix so we NEVER miss out ! I would vote for her every single time if I could !!!

Puts her all into the axe throwing community always helping out where she can to help get new and experienced players better and better

Kitty will do anything for her throwers and does everything for the throwers and the venue before herself.

Alex Mitchell (Axe James)

Urban Axes- Baltimore

As a league master and coach, Alex goes out of her way to make people feel included. She works very carefully to drop new throwers into groups where they'll thrive and open up. She always gives advice when you're struggling and never turns away someone who needs to vent about what they feel is their lack of progression. Alex would give someone the shirt off her back and highlights the camaraderie of not only a coach, but a woman in this sport. Her and her fellow podcast hosts from An Axe League of Their Own help women in this sport feel like they're not alone. She helps ensure people don't just quit because they had a bad few weeks in a season and she's always a great sport in competition. Throwing against Alex is a volley of encouragement and light banter to push you to do better and it makes a world of difference to new throwers.

Amanda Nidd (Industrial Park)

BATL-Stockyards

She shows leadership and has helped a lot of people learn to throw. Also has a great personality and goes out of her way to help people.

Massively improved the throwing community at Stockyards, with a whole lot of work put in - created the venue’s first premier league to give seasoned players a chance to play higher; promoted leagues in and across venues to bring in more players; increased communication between throwers during games, fostering positivity and joy in the games to make a healthy competitive environment while keeping it fair; focused on small changes of big benefit to the players, including pen lines on rings, cleaner clutches, and better board selection (no knots in bulls/clutches!); stayed late with players to help them with their throws, giving extra time to those wanting more practice and providing advice when asked; tailored her coaching to fit each player, helping them find their own best throw, staying patient and encouraging throughout the process; and constantly been a source of help, support, positivity, and friendliness! Amanda has been a wonderful leader at Stockyards who has made an impact on all of its players, improving the venue (both its physical space, and the play there!) and building a larger community that everyone can enjoy. From the rec league, to the standard leagues, to the premiere league, and the marathon leagues, Amanda has been a pillar of support to us all.

Ashley Hoag (Poptart)

Detroit Axe

Poptart is kind, welcoming and accepting of everyone. She looks out for the people around her and stands up for those who need it and makes sure everyone is celebrated and included. She is quiet and unassuming in general but her presence has made the sport a more inclusive place.

Austin Campbell (Sauce Boss)

True North

Austin has been an amazing supporter both on and off the scenes at True North whether its a regular league night or preparing to host an event. He always shows up and puts in extra work to make events run smoothly even if he’s competing. Also really helps throwers improve and does his best to make sure people are having fun.

Just loves the sport, helped me so much with my throw and educating me on the Community, made me the thrower I am today! so much love for the sport and its future.

Just loves axe throwing more than anything and I think he’s the perfect face for axe throwing just so genuine and engaged in the love of axe throwing and the community it has become

Bill Lackey (Anonymous Participant)

BATL- Charlotte

As our regional rep, Bill has demonstrated a true passion for his community. He has sacrificed many hours of his personal time to ensure a happy and thriving axe family throughout the Southeast region! Plus, he’s one hell of a thrower and an all around amazing guy!

Brandon Drake (SP33D H0L3Z)

Half Axe

He helps newer throwers with tips and has gifted some new axes as well as constantly providing our leagues with new axe throwing stats that he compiles himself and he’s just an all around great guy

Bryan Starling (Starling)

BATL- Port Lands

I have been throwing with Starling for over 5 years now and have seen him at work, running leagues and organizing events as well as always having the answers to all our questions. He doesn't ever think twice when we ask him for something and he is one of the most reliable staff members at BATL. He has been the best league runner by far and has made our league nights the most enjoyable and inclusive. He still celebrates all of us like we are brand new when we achieve something and puts so much into making the community great. His league posts are curated like a work of art and his coaching is top notch. If there were only more Starlings in this sport. I wish I could nominate him for the Best BATL employee or league runner of the year again but this will have to do. Give that man a gold STAR!!!

Because he is the sharpest axe in the sport and still runs with the old chill vibes that make the sport great and is like one of the only remaining throwers from before peak axe times that is STILL so amazing at throwing and being a good axe dad. He has come so far as to becoming an official IATF REP! Special acknowledgement for that 420 Bullseye streak record!

Brian Peters (Slumberjack)

Urban Axes- Boston

Slumberjack is not only one of the fiercest competitors, but also one of the nicest humans in the entire community. "Slumby" has created a skills series that is designed to bring the fun back to axe throwing, and take away the stress of competition that many of us have gotten burned out by. Slumberjack isn't an employee of any axe throwing venue, and has gone out of his way to make throwers from every venue (even WATL ones) feel included and represented at these events. He's broken down barriers between the competing axe houses in the local community and encouraged throwers to represent the Boston community, as opposed to whatever venue they happen to throw leagues in. In addition to bringing the community closer, he has also been heavily involved with local charities as well. At the latest skills series event, Slumby donated tons of cool prizes (custom shirts, jerseys, bucket hats, etc.) and raised over $500 for Dogs for Better Lives, a charity focused on providing assistance dogs to individuals with autism, hearing loss, and other disabilities. He does all of this in his spare time to make sure that everyone in the community is having a good time, and feels like part of the team. I can't recommend Slumberjack highly enough for this award, and hope that he gets the recognition he deserves for all that he does for the community.

Carl Howe (Craal)

Valhalla North

Carl has given 110% in growing the sport within the UK. This includes appearing on local news to promote the sport as a whole. In the leagues that he runs, he is always supportive in helping others improve their game, sometimes at the detriment of his own scores.

He runs our venue but always puts the community first. Always helps any and all new throwers reach their potential, puts on community driven events at little and often no profit and works tirelessly to build the sport in the UK

He’s the pinnacle of community in the UK and Europe, whether it’s helping owners set up a new venue or start premier leagues, organising kick ass tournaments and marathons or simply opening up the venue 2 hours before playoffs start and then filming, coaching and advising you because you need help with your big axe throw post injury (🙋🏻‍♂️). He facilitated throwers driving from 3 hours away (after their venue closed) to throw at Valhalla North so they had somewhere to call a home venue. Together with his wife Kat they put their everything into axe throwing and supporting the IATF in Europe!

Carl goes above and beyond and gives his literal blood, sweat and tears to ensure the community have it all at Valhalla North and the wider UK. He puts on events for people of all experience levels, events for people who's venues have closed down, invests in better equipment and down time activities, gives 121 coaching in his own time, helps people out financially with league payments and just gives everything he has to bring enjoyment and success within the sport! He sacrifices his own time and often well-being to do these things and our venue or community wouldn't exist or be what it is without him. He is the embodiment of the sport and community and no one deserves this recognition more than he does.

By always supplying a great venue and atmosphere. Mostly having a great sense of humour and helping everyone feel welcome. He is always innovating new games outside of the leagues to allow players to develop.

This man always goes above and beyond at any event hosted in his venue to make sure every person is happy, feeling safe and secure and above all else having fun while competing. I think he has become a pillar of the UK axe throwing community and definitely deserves some recognition for it. I remember during the first UK open a good friend of mine had really fell out of love with the whole concept of axe throwing the community that we've all created and strive to make better with each day because they had been treated differently at another venue for some of the views they have around the LGBTQ community and upon hearing this Carl went out of his way to make sure they felt self/ secure and above all else part of this amazing community to the point they felt confident enough to pick up and axe and throw again.

Carl is the epitome of community. He uses his role as an Owner/thrower to its full potential and has grown an unknown sport in one of the most highly economically disadvantaged areas of the country into one of the largest and most thriving communities in europe. He's created a space that welcomes everyone no matter what their background or story and has merged a large diverse group including military veterans, scholars, artists and teenagers looking to find their way in life into one massively dysfunctional family that thrives on each other's success and equally laments their losses.

Without Carl guiding the community I feel a lot of people's life would be nowhere near as enriched, for most of his throwers VN has become a rock of stability in an ever changing world and that's down to Carl's dedication and personal sacrifice since the doors first opened.

Without Carl's relentless support from a distance (we are both UK, just other ends of the country) I would not have been able to make my venue work. While it is still a struggle, Carl is always available for pointers and workable solutions.

He cares about the rules being followed in games and is not shy to call out any misdemeanor, no matter how unwelcome that can be at the moment. I appreciate that calibre of character.

His league members are all welcoming and an excellent quality of competitor. This is not luck, this is patient and tenacious coaching at its best.

I am sure all nominees deserve to win this. I am not sure they all deserve it as much as Carl.

Carl always has a positive attitude to everyone who steps into his venue. He holds amazing tournaments and leagues, he goes out of his way to go above and beyond for everyone at the Valhalla North venue!

Carl has created an amazing community for axe throwing called Valhalla North. He has helped me and others who throw their improvement and challenge ourselves. The atmosphere he has created encourages improvement and fun where we all celebrate each others wins. He is always trying to please everyone and does an amazing job by taking league members feedback on board. He deserves the LaFace of the Community award because he has brought so many people together and is the embodiment of sportsmanship. I couldn't think of a more deserving person.

Carl runs Valhalla North over in the UK which is one of the friendliest, most inclusive things I've been a part of, and I've been in almost every other sport and venue around us. He loves to see everyone doing well and often sacrifices his business in favour of making sure all the throwers are taking part and enjoying it. A genuinely lovely person who deserves this award.

As a newcomer to axe throwing, I've felt so lucky to be welcomed to the sport by Carl. He's been nothing but supportive and encouraging (without being patronising), and is clearly passionate about what he does. He's fostered an inclusive atmosphere, catering to the needs of all throwers, without the competitive side having to suffer. He'll bend over backwards to make sure everyone is enjoying themselves.

These are the sorts of people that make others want to stick with sports, and often the reason why people subsequently excel at them. Carl's positive effect on the throwers he interacts with cannot be overstated, and shouldn't be taken for granted. Also, he's an all-round top guy.

Carl is the owner of Valhalla Northz England. The community he's built is beyond incredible. Valhalla North is an escape and sanctuary for many of us.

He has been part of creating one of the best communities around axe throwing and pushes all throwers no matter of the level to improve and enjoy this great sport

Joined my first league this year at Valhalla North. Carl was amazing, made me feel welcome and like I was part of the crew from minute one. He’s taught me so much in a short space and helped me find a new favourite hobby, which wouldn’t have happened without such a warm welcome

Carl is the embodiment of the ideals of the IATF within the UK and Europe. Carl continuously spends every ounce of energy, blood, sweat and tears that he has in making the axe throwing community in the UK and throughout Europe what it is. He is unwavering in his commitment and passion for the sport and the community. He drives everyone around him to excel and actively encourages players to both take part and become the best throwers they can be building a solid community in the process which has grown to include multiple active social groups outside of the world of axe throwing, a thriving online community and an enviable live stream showcasing the best that Europe has to offer. Carl has also taken displaced throwers under his wing and given them a home venue and community for them to continue to grow their abilities and passion for the sport working tirelessly to ensure that they can attend leagues by accommodating their time restraints due to hundreds of miles of travel each way just to throw at Valhalla North. If there is anybody who deserves this award I cannot think of anyone who lives, breathes and exemplifies axe throwing and the IATF better than Carl Howe.

If it wasn’t for Carl, I’d have never heard of axe throwing and fell in love with it. He’s the biggest proponent of the sport in the UK, which is proven by the size of his leagues at his venue, Valhalla North. He is the most supportive person I know, from coaching new throwers, letting people use his axes, being at the lanes cheering people on, nothing is ever too much. We also have various members who are a part of the LGBT community, and Carl makes sure that everyone feels welcome at his venue. He even went out of his way to get a Valhalla North Pride flag manufactured to show that everyone is welcome.

On a personal note, Carl has helped me through some tough times in the last couple of years with both axe throwing and just being there as a friend.

He is an absolute credit to the axe throwing community.

He is always available to support others to encourage and train. Gives up his free time to help anyone as long as they ask.

In too many ways to even word, the things this man has done for the community is indescribable but I'll give it a go anyway.

The first time I met Carl was December 2020 (during all the pandemic craziness) I booked an axe throwing session with some friends and immediately fell in love but never got the chance to visit again until I applied to work there in April 2023.

Even as a complete novice to axe throwing (I didn't even know it was a sport I'm ashamed to say!) he took me under his wing and gave me the chance to become a part of the community. I was training people within a week! The time and effort he put into teaching me to be a good coach and a better axe thrower was incredible. I've come along so much as a person just learning and following his lead. He's grown the business more than I ever thought possible. And the love and enthusiasm he gives to people to bring them into the sport and make them fall completely in love with it is phenomenal.

He goes above and beyond every expectation in everything he does. Be it a tournament, a league, or even just a customer session, he gives his all and makes sure every single person is included and can actually take part and improve while doing so. He has put his heart, soul, marriage and everything else into this sport and it's not something you come across very often. Within a month of me working there he had a Valhalla north pride flag printed and hung not only for me but for all our LGBTQ+ community. I have never felt so safe and cared for as a member of staff. It's not just a place of work but more like a second home, the people I've met just from being there are astounding. Experiences I would never have had if it weren't for Carl. The UK Open for instance! My god it was electric! Not everyone can afford to go to the American and Canadian venues so having a piece of it here in the UK is such a privilege and Carl worked his ass off to make sure it happened. I got to meet Joey the hat and pops and many more names of the community I'd only heard of.

The list honestly goes on and on. I couldn't be prouder to work for this man and be a part of Valhalla north. If anyone deserves an award it's this man.

Carrie Ann Pahowski (Carrot)

BATL-Niagara

Carrie gives her heart and soul into axe throwing. She is by far our favourite league runner in Niagara Falls, always going above and beyond to make sure her league members have fresh boards, a clean venue and some fun prizes that she has made or spent her own money on to make our league extra special. She helps anyone and everyone with their throwing even if she herself hasn't got her 81. She is an amazing trick thrower and has won a big axe tournament as well. Carrie deserves this award for being a straight up amazing person!

She is always doing so much for her leagues, her throwing friends and family. As a BATL employee and an IATF veteran, and simply a friend to the axe community.

Chili (Chili)

BATL-Port Lands

Chili has demonstrated the ideals of the LaFace Community Award in numerous ways, and is the most deserving person for ANY community based award associated with the IATF. So much so that I truly believe that the name of the award should actually be changed to the “LOVE AND AXES IATF COMMUNITY” award.

As a competitor, Chili always throws with integrity and honesty. She is always helping other throwers be their best. Sometimes that means helping break down physical parts of their throw, sometimes that means helping them with the mental aspect of the sport. Sometimes that means saying a kind thing when it’s needed most, and sometimes it’s helping us look inward to help us be our higher self. The best part is that it’s always done with compassion and empathy.

Chili has also demonstrated highly attuned leadership within the community, by helping us see what kind of impact we can have, on not only the axe throwing community, but also, on the communities in which our events and tournaments take place. She has been the main driving force behind the charity raffles associated with the Challenger Series, Team Canada vs Team USA events, and Love and Axes, and continues to do so this year. With these, she has raised thousands of dollars for people who need it the most.

For these reasons, and countless others, I am nominating Chili for the LaFace award! ♥️

I always see Chili doing a lot to bring people together like the card exchange and how she promotes community and helping out. When I met her before knowing who she was she offered me snacks and her food because I was talking about being upset that it was too late to order food, I didn't even know her! I think that Chilli has the biggest heart in this community.

As long as I've known Chili she has been awesome and has been so great to me. Since the cultivation of her brand (Love and Axes) she has been working so hard to help better the sport and the community. She cares so deeply about the community and she is an amazing part of the community.

Chloe Lyttle (Feisty Cuffs)

Battle Axe Throwing

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, even when she's been unwell, 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 when it comes to the issues we face from throwing in Australia and fighting to help the community be able to keep growing when we are so far away from the majority of throwers.

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.

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 to protect junior team members, inspiring others to do the same. She's even put me in my place once or twice, and I'm grateful for it. 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 always putting others before herself, and she deserves recognition for her work more than anyone I know. She is a beacon of community, shining her light on everyone around her; she deserves her moment in the sun.

Chris O’Neil

Created the first reoccurring tournament circuit in Ontario. Bring all throwers together. An unsung hero going above and beyond to bring us together.

Christian Scandura (The Heckler)

MANIAX- Sydney

He is supportive of everyone, regardless of who they are. He is constantly cheering everyone on and encouraging them to do their best. He’s like our little cheerleader.

If he notices someone new in the sport who is struggling to land axes, he will coach them gently with their consent. He is fun to throw against and doesn’t take it too seriously, but when he is serious, he can still have a good time and support his opponent and encourage them to throw their best, even if it means he will lose.

He is honestly one of the kindest, most cheerful, fun and caring people I’ve met and I know a number of people feel the same way about him.

He’s an integral part of our community in Australia. Tournaments are not the same without his presence.

Christina deGraft-Johnson (Big Axe Energy)

Urban Axes- Baltimore

I nominate Christina because she's been working hard behind the scenes as an IATF Regional Rep focusing on the things that affect our sport the most. Christina's dedication to bettering the organization and initiatives are essential in helping to keep the sport thriving. Her voice is important and her energy is irreplaceable. As a woman in this sport I only wish she had come into the axe throwing world sooner.

Cole Neis (Larusso)

The Range

He always has helpful advice for fellow throwers, celebrates every person's accomplishments, is always positive and encouraging, and is an overall wonderful person

Colin Blyth (Goose)

The Range

He has always been welcoming and friendly no matter if you’re new to the community or an established thrower. He encourages everyone around him to be their best and supports them and cheers them on with huge energy and conviction. He is an all around great human being and is loved by all as he is someone who once you meet you cannot help but admire and love. He is a huge personality and an irreplaceable part of the axe throwing community.

Dave Alviso (Canexican)

Ace Axe Throwing

Most talented competitor

Dustin Kerr (Perplebunny)

Perplebunny

He continuously helps not only his league members but those in other areas improve themselves. He has traveled 8 hours to run a marathon for people he knew from just a couple tournaments from the other organization to get them into and trying the IATF way. Dustin will accept a call at any time if you have questions about various aspects of things in the sport. Even when Dustin is beating you in a match he will be very encouraging of your improvement from the last time he played you. There are things he does different from some of the more OG crowd but this is to give his throwers every opportunity to both throw more and to improve on themselves. As a bonus he has really nice spray painted targets.

Always finding new ways to bring in new throwers as well as boosting the current throwers. He had made every feel so welcome at his venue, I truly believe Dustin deserves the LaFace of the community award.

Elisha Bates (Peachy)

Lumberjaxs UK

Peachy is a pillar of the UK community, whether she running the Lumberjaxs UK women's league, mentoring new throwers, helping to end disputes, just being a supportive friend to all at her home venue and other venues, congratulating people online and in person to celebrate peoples triumphs, traveling to different venues around the UK to support the sport, cheering on everyone she meets regardless of their house, helping to organise events such as the Lunar Cup at Lumberjaxs UK and promoting female participation in the sport of axe throwing through her Instagram page.

Recently I have suffered a lot with stress and Peachy has been there for me and Kitty (Lumberjaxs UK owner) to help us understand the causes of our stress, resolve issues and champion understanding mental health with axe throwing and setting acceptable boundaries. Ensuring everyone is safe, and well and understands the importance of mental health within a competitive environment. To make sure throwing remains a fun hobby and issues in axe throwing do not impact people's personal lives. Peachy has taken on increased responsibility from Kitty's IATF workload, without any fuss, reward or payment to help a friend in need and allow her to take mental health breaks knowing lumberjaxes UK is in good hands.

Peachy has taken over the Lumberjaxs UK women's league to give Kitty a much-needed break and step up to resolve all issues that arise to create a competitor friendly environment. Ensuring Kitty has time away from axe throwing as an owner. Peachy has run the league perfectly and is now the women's league runner for Lumberjaxs UK moving forward. Taking on increased responsibility within Lumberjaxs UK.

Peachy had also taken public sessions to make sure Kitty has days off with her daughter and has time away from Lumberjaxes UK to recharge. Helping our community not just by supporting those throwing, but also understanding the importance of time away from the sport.

Peachy is also a great mentor to new throwers. Peachy always takes the time to make sure new throwers feel welcomed in our community. By setting up game nights, talking to everyone, helping people discover their throw and helping people find their axes. Peachy can be often seen talking with lots of different groups of people and making sure that everyone is okay and included to create an inclusive environment for all.

Peachy also helps new throwers find their perfect throw by helping people in training, creating axe fun throwing games and taking the time to break down people's throws to help them improve their game in their own time (at her home venue and other UK venues). Understanding and championing that axe throwing does not have a one-size-fits-all approach to throwing.

Peachy is the loudest cheerleader for everyone in the UK in perosn/online, and cheers for everyone. She is often the loudest supporters in the room.

Peachy is committed to making sure everyone feels included within the lumberjaxs family and supported. This can be evidenced through the growing rookies league at lumberjacks and peachy involvement within the rookies league. Most describe Peachy as their first friend and biggest supporter within axe throwing.

She is a truly awesome person to throw with, she offers encouragement and she is a loud, larger than life character who always, without fail, cheers everyone on. She provides help & support to everyone from Rookies to those just going through a rocky patch with their throwing. She even provides support for Lumberjaxs as a whole from helping out if short staffed to cleaning if required, a true ambassador for both the sport and its community. If ever there was someone who embodies these ideals, Peachy is your girl!

Excellent player ,supports her team and axe house

Jacy Ring (Walking Calamity)

Choppers

She has always fought for making sure all throwers have equal opportunities especially at tournaments. She has continued to positively influence me throughout the years.

Jamie Sproates (Obadiah)

Valhalla North

Jamie’s taught me a lot in my short time as part of the community. He’s been super friendly, welcoming and always kept me right during my early matches. He’s definitely a strong factor in how welcome I felt joining my first league as a total newb, and has taught me so much to improve my throwing

Jenn Kerrigan

Chill Axe

Jen does not throw, yet is a tremendous support for everyone who does. She is extremely supportive regardless of competitive level, continuously ensures the sport is heading in a positive direction, and facilitates events to ensure the community is coming together. She volunteers for countless events and has become a 'mom' figure to so many throwers.

Even though she doesn’t throw very often she donates a lot of time and effort into the axe throwing community she helps out with the moderating on the steel city axe throwers page always keeping score at leagues and tournaments organizing t shirt sales and so many other things she’s like the mom of the Pittsburgh axe throwing community

Joey Nessler (Joey the Hat)

Choppers

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.

Not to mention the coins 🤷🏻‍♀️

Unfortunately Joe won’t be at IATC this year but I still think Joe should be recognized! 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!

Do we really have to say anything, 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 ( of which he has never profited from).

No brainer the coin and his support and sportsmanship to who he throwers against!

Kat Howe (Scratch)

Valhalla North

Kat has done wonders for the promotion of Axe Throwing to the female population of the UK. Always faces her opponents with a smile and never fails to provide a safe space for throwers of all walks of life. She never hesitates to help those in need and is a kind soul, always travelling where possible and really is the staple of our community in the UK

Kat has worked hard to bring axe throwing to the uk especially for women, she has shown that it's a sport that can be enjoyed by everyone!

Kat has also brought the 1st women's only Grand Slam to the UK in the form of the shield maidens tournament that is happening at the UK open this year .

As the UK and Europe's No. 1 female thrower she works tirelessly to bring women into the sport. She has, together with Sasha, organised the first female only event at a IATF Grand Slam (UK Open) which has gained massive interest and is going to be an epic event! She runs Valhalla North with her husband Carl; they put their everything into the community.

Kat is always flying the flag for female axe throwers and welcomes all people with enthusiasm. She goes out of her way to help people ‘throw better’ in Valhalla North and promote a positive environment for women and men alike.

Kat is one of the most humble female throwers I have ever met. I feel sometimes because she is female she is often overlooked and overshadowed by her husband as they are both owners of Valhalla North in the UK. She is a phenomenal thrower, and has time for anyone. She will be up front and honest and push you to the best of your ability. She goes above and beyond and works every hour god sends and just deserves to be recognised for all her hard work and dedication to both the sport and the community.

Kristen Giles (Storm, Stormy Stormerson, The Weather, ect.)

Detroit Axe

She has brought together an amazing women focused community and has been an advocate for women and minorities in the sport. Anyone in this community could win this award, but she helped to bring us all together.

She is one of my best friends and wants the absolute best for her friends and the sport.

Stormy has been one of the greatest advocates for women and people of colour that the sport of axe throwing has ever had. She does not shy away from a difficult conversation, is generous with her time when coaching others and actively works on building this community both in her region and with many women around the world.

Phillippe Lafleur (Lafleur)

Rage-Montreal

Handsome , amazing personality , fun , encouraging and a master to beat !

Lisa Warden (The Big Cheese Lou)

The Range

Lisa is the most community driven person I have ever met. She brings so much joy and energy to any axe event she attends. She’s always willing to lend a hand whether it’s with leagues, or running tournaments. She is exactly what this community stands for and is the perfect face for the LaFace.

Mark Overes (Marksman)

True North

Mark is always the first one to help others out! Whether it is to help sharpen an axe, fix an axe or help someone with their throw and so much more. He’s always cheering others on and encouraging them to do their best!

He has been my biggest supporter in axe throwing and I know there are many others who can say the same. He has a passion for the sport and loves to share it with others! He’s always encouraging others to join and most have:)

Mike Fillmore (Filly)

Peterborough

Mike is another great ambassador for our sport. The man is not only just a personal friend but is the reason I started throwing axes in league settings. He has constantly encouraged my growth and development in the sport.

Beyond my personal connection to him, he runs our youth program at PAX. He is literally hands on developing the next generation of throwers in Peterborough. I have come into the club when he is running the youth program and I can tell you those kids' engagement and passion for our sport is a direct result of the effort and time he puts into fostering that.

Mike is very active on the tournament and league scenes and is regarded by all as a great individual. Mike is a constant sportsman, cheerleader, coach and friend to all that walk through the doors of our club and any other that he is at.

He also would make a suitable candidate to receive this award.

Nathan Lake (Deal or No Deal)

Detroit Axe

Demonstrates values consistent with what this community so great

Nathan Pugh (Wolverine)

Lumberjax UK

He is one of the most supportive throwers I know and he looks out for everyone

Nick Laface (Mom)

BATL-Port Lands

All the work this man puts in to keep and make the world of axe throwing better and better

Patricia Graham (The Graham)

BATL-Vaughan, Port Lands

She loves the sport and the community. She's always there for everyone and always supporting and encouraging others.

Patrick Kerrigan (PK)

ChillAxe

He has always exemplified positivity and is always around to help his fellow throwers. Not only is he a great aspect to the community, he is one of the greatest people you will ever meet. He goes around behind the scenes to help with leagues and tournaments at ChillAxe and always offers a hand wherever we may be. He is someone you can rely on to make you smile, get an axe checked, help with axe scores and to be just an overall better human being.

Phillippe Lachance (Lachance)

The Range

Phil is one of the most positive and supportive throwers that I have met. He always goes out of his way to make sure everyone feels supported. I have only known him for a relatively short time but he is already one of my favorite people to see at a tournament.

Rob Dye (Axe Master General)

ChillAxe

He goes above and beyond to do everything in his power for the sport of axe throwing.

Ryan Eldridge (Maverick)

Warriors

He saw what this community was at its best and built a venue in Warriors that exemplified that. He lived it everyday and not only grew one of the best communities and venues out there but he went and helped get a product that would take axe throwers games to the next level and gave them a reasonable price to do so. He never expects or expects any praise and is humble as they come. He hosted so many events that he should reflect on and be proud of and although his business has experienced hardship of late, I have no doubt he will rebuild and he deserves this recognition I reckon. Legend

Ryan Ihrig (B.W.G.)

Urban Axes- Cincinnati

He has built an amazing community of axe throwers with urban axes cincinnati. With Urban Cincy closing he has worked tirelessly to find us a new venue to throw in. He found us a new venue and coordinated with their management to ensure a smooth transition into their community. Then, upon hearing the new venue is also closing, he has begun reaching out to all of his contacts to find us another venue so the community he helped build can stay together. On top of building this amazing team in Cincinnati, he has coached and taught new throwers left and right. He has been pivotal in not only my growth as an axe thrower, but my growth as a person.

Sarah Credo (Shopro Sarah)

BATL-Vaughan, Portlands

Sarah is active in the community, she welcomes new people with open arms and makes them feel special, seen, heard and valued. Sarah is a complete treasure and wonderful human being. She is so kind as well as talented. She never gives herself enough credit and is always lifting others up. You know it is going to be a great day when Sarah is at the event!

Shannon Kolvitz (Switchcomb)

Urban Axes- Durham

Not only is Shannon an amazing thrower and axe maker, he is a truly giving person. He is supportive of every thrower around him and he will help in any way he can to help others better themselves. And in that, I am not just talking about axe throwing. If every venue had. Shannon, this sport would be in fantastic hands.

Shay Ihrig (GlitterGirl)

Urban Axes- Cincinnati

Shay has devoted her time to helping a group of women run an online league of throwers. She put together all of the spreadsheets to seamlessly run the league and make it easier to expand. She cares about the sport and the people in it and that is why I nominate her

Matt Colavecchia (Sheep Toast

Peterborough

Sheep Toast is hands down the greatest ambassador to our sport. This man who is one of the best throwers out there not only makes himself accessible to all who seek his coaching and guidance but makes every single person feel welcome to the sport.

He is a bundle of positive energy, he actively is trying to grow our sport by working with new throwers (such as myself) to try and grow the tournament scene as well as bolster long term engagement.

A personal example. He saw me showing up to tournaments as a new thrower who is only in their 5th season. He identified my passion to grow and learn the sport. He would watch me throw and take notes and then offer advice if wanted. We now throw on separate nights but he still monitors my matches and scores and we communicate regularly. He is my cheerleader and unconditional supporter.

I can't think of someone who embodies this amazing sport and in turn this very special award than Sheep Toast.

Tim Stivers (Big Time)

Lumberjaxes

Tim is an amazing person when he walks into the room you know you’re gonna have a good time. He’s also an excellent father, axe coach and most importantly an amazing friend.

He is always going out of the way to ensure everyone is included in the community. He shows up at events He is not participating in to ensure they run smoothly. He supports all throwers, from reigning champs to newbies. He is a constant advocate for the sport and anyone he comes in contact with.

He is a very positive person he is supportive to everyone he comes in contact with and supports all the venues in the Pittsburgh area and others outside of Pittsburgh

Have you ever seen "Big Time '' without a smile on his face? No, you haven't. He is genuinely one of the kindest, nicest people you will ever meet. Willing to help anyone, anytime, including his opponent, and then cheer them on when they take the win against him using the advice he just gave! (saw it happen!) He's happy for everyone's success and is the epitome of a good sport! His love and joy for axe throwing is apparent, he was instrumental in creating the "Steel City Axe Throwers' ' group. This group isn't just a bunch of Yinzers chucking axes, they have also raised money for two charities to date (and more coming up) and are proud to call their 250+ members part of the Steel City family. In conclusion, Tim may be a big burly guy on the outside, but he's a giant teddy bear with the biggest heart, an amazing Daddy to his little girl Joey, he loves his friends and family so much, and is absolutely a great choice for this honor! And Betty White (his dog) is pretty great too.

(I wish there was a place to submit a picture)

Tyler Jeffrey

BATL- Hamilton, Riot

This person has been one of the backbones of BATL Hamilton, he wants everyone to do their best and strives to make BATL an inclusive space. Tyler pushes to make BATL better by putting in 100%, he created a league for people in the LBGTQ+ community, pushes to keep leagues running, and gives everyone a say in what happens with the leagues. He is a friend to everyone and supportive to all. He is a person that I believe demonstrates the ideals of LaFace of the community.