WATL Certified Judges are held to the highest standard in understanding and implementing our rules when overseeing sanctioned events such as leagues, tournaments, qualifiers, and more. Certified Judges allow venues to organize and run sanctioned competitions and events to the highest standards.

WATL Judges are:

• Certified by WATL
• Up to date with the latest rules and changes
• Able to officially run WATL-sanctioned leagues
• Able to assist in WATL-sanctioned tournaments, including the World Axe Throwing Championship
• Knowledgeable in the rules for:
  • Hatchet
  • Big Axe
  • Hatchet Duals
• Able to conduct Qualifying Throws for Major and Televised Tournaments
• Able to renew or update their Certified Judge status in future years when rule changes occur
• Able to serve as substitutes to assist other venues in hosting leagues or tournaments
• And much more!

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.

The full list of active WATL Judges:

Last updated 11/13/2025

Interested in becoming a WATL Certified judge too? The program is open to the public! You do not have to be employed at an axe throwing venue to participate and receive the certification. In order to apply and participate in the WATL Judge Certification program, click on the button below; Upon purchase, you will be sent a link to complete the relevant Certification Quiz.

Upon passing the test, you’ll be sent a certificate with your name and date of completion, signifying that you are a WATL Certified Judge! With this certification, you will be able to run and manage sanctioned events as an official who has a strong comprehension of the WATL rules and the code of conduct to a high standard.