We’ve overhauled the Judge Certification program for 2026 to make it clearer, more manageable, and better suited to supporting judges at every level.
Whether you’re just starting your axe throwing career, a seasoned judge who has volunteered at major tournaments, or someone aiming to become a Head Judge, these updates are designed to provide the resources and structure judges need to be strong authorities on the WATL ruleset.
With help from our fantastic and experienced Judge Committee, these updates aim to equip Certified Judges better than ever before, and create a better experience for everyone participating in WATL sanctioned competition.
New WATL Judge Certification System
Starting in 2026, there are three levels of Judge Certification:
Starting from the entry level, League Judge, each successive level requires the test taker to hold a valid/active certification from the previous level.
For example, in order to become a Certified Head Judge, one would have to already have an up to date Tournament Judge Certification, and in order to become a Certified Tournament Judge, one would have to already have an up to date Tournament League Certification.
League Judge Certification
League Judges oversee local WATL sanctioned league matches, helping competitors understand the rules and ensuring fair, honest play. This level focuses on hands-on application of the WATL ruleset at its most fundamental state, employing the guidelines and practices of the gameplay rules and code of conduct in everyday sanctioned Leagues.
Tournament Judge Certification
Requiring an active League Judge Certification, the Tournament Judge Certification is the next step up from routine league nights or marathons. Certified Tournament Judges have honed their skills and knowledge base to a point that they are able to officiate WATL-sanctioned tournaments from local, regional, national tournaments all the way to the World Championship. They navigate more complex matches, handle closer calls (and see a lot more sudden death faceoffs!), and support tournament organizers in running a professional competitive experience for every WATL competitor.
Head Judge Certification
Head Judges are the paragons of judging excellency; they are the most qualified (aside from the Head of Officiating) to make final rulings, resolve disputes, and ensure every match is conducted fairly and professionally. Beyond overseeing the action on the lanes, Head Judges mentor other judges, help coordinate tournament operations, and uphold the integrity of the competition from start to finish. This certification reflects advanced expertise in WATL rules & events, as well as a commitment to delivering the best possible experience for players, organizers, and spectators alike.
Head Judge Certification
WATL is excited to introduce the Certified Head Judge program, designed to encourage the presence of a highly trained Head Judge at sanctioned play, including leagues, tournaments, and qualifiers. Our past Head Judges were handpicked by WATL, highly knowledgeable, and very limited in number. While they did an excellent job, the demands of traveling to multiple events each year were significant.
This program allows any judge to learn, be tested, and become a Head Judge, expanding the pool of skilled Head Judges available to attend sanctioned competitions.
This certification is not required to run or judge leagues, or to judge at tournaments. It is strictly required only for those who intend to act in a Head Judge capacity for official sanctioned competition.
Updates to the League and Tournament Judge Tests
For 2026, we’ve split the single Judge test into two separate categories: League Judge and Tournament Judge. We removed redundancies, and even combined, the two tests are now shorter than the 2025 test!
All questions have been rewritten to be much clearer, making it easier for returning or hopeful judges to focus on understanding the rules and applying them in real situations, while still ensuring everyone who earns certification has the knowledge needed to keep events fair and consistent.
Pricing & Renewals
League & Tournament Judge Certifications
The League & Tournament Judge Certification will remain at the 2025 baseline rate of $84.99 USD, which covers both certification levels. All judges begin with the League Certification, after which they may take the optional Tournament test at any time without an additional fee. If a League Certified Judge later chooses to upgrade to the Tournament level, it is still included under the same rate, no separate or repeat payment required.
To help us maintain and update the tests including grading, rule changes, and keeping the program accurate and fair, a renewal fee of $19.99 USD will now be required annually from the date of certification. This ensures that the program can continue to provide quality, up to date resources for all judges while keeping initial certification costs stable.
Note – 2025 WATL Certified Judges who successfully recertify at the League Judge level or higher by January 31, 2026 will not need to pay any renewal costs until 2027.
Head Judge Certification
The regular Head Judge Certification rate is $139.99 USD, with a renewal rate of $34.99 USD (which also covers League & Tournament renewals) due annually from the date of certification. The higher rate reflects the advanced level of the certification and the resources required to maintain its testing and grading. The renewal frequency ensures the certification remains current and aligns with the now established WATL certification schedule.
Sign me up!
Like other items on the store, all Judge Certifications and renewals are subject to discounts, including the Affiliate purchase code (APC).
“Attention currently Certified Judges!*
2025 WATL Certified Judges who successfully recertify by passing the 2026 test at the League Judge level by January 31, 2026 will retain valid certification through 2026 at no additional cost. Recertification instructions will be sent to your email. Keep an eye out.”
Here’s to 2026!
These updates are all about keeping the judge program fair, consistent, and well-supported. With clear certification tiers, renewal schedules, and pricing, we can make sure judges have up to date resources, get the recognition they deserve, and keep events running smoothly. The better trained our judges are, the better the experience for everyone, and the more judging can help the sport grow.
We’re grateful for the feedback and support from the community as these changes roll out, and we can’t wait to see more judges step up and make the sport better than ever!
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