The Best Axe Throwing Experience In London, Ontario

Even though we (BATL, The Backyard Axe Throwing League) pioneered the sport of urban axe throwing back in 2006, there are now many options when it comes to wanting to hurl an axe into a wooden target. How do you know you’re going to get the best experience? Easy – go with the trusted name. At BATL, the Backyard Axe Throwing League, we’ve been bringing axe throwing to the city of London, Ontario since 2015. We’re constantly engaged in our community and have hosted thousands of new and returning axe throwers over the years. If you’re wondering how to get the best axe throwing experience in London, look no further than BATL.

The City of London, Ontario

While the name of the city and the major river located within it (the Thames River) may sound like a carbon copy of another world-class city across the pond, the City of London Ontario is a thriving and unique city that has much to offer. London got its start as a city back in 1855, and since then has grown to become one of Canada’s largest urban areas with its own storied history. Since the end of World War II, London has experienced a growth unprecedented in its history. With the major annexation of 1961, which added 60,000 people to the city, London had grown close to a quarter of a million people in 1976, the one hundred and fiftieth anniversary of its founding. Major physical changes in London’s appearance have occurred. In the old city core, many of the landmarks of the past have gone to be replaced by modern developments – the McClary factory was demolished for Wellington Square, the Hotel London was replaced by the City Centre, the Covent Garden Market was enclosed by the Market Garden Parking Building, and a new Court House was finally constructed on a demolished two-block site.

New suburbs have appeared on the outskirts – Lockwood Park, Sherwood Forest, and Oakridge Acres. The old residential areas became threatened by the overuse of the automobile on streets meant only to accommodate horse and buggy. Recent planning decisions have however been carefully made to ensure that the character and integrity of the old city are maintained. Something which can only result in enhancing the urban environment and in making London a pleasant place for its present and future citizens.

The History of Axe Throwing at BATL

Back in 2006, a group of friends were bored at a cottage outside of Toronto and decided to throw an axe at a stump. Little did they know that this innocent way to pass the time would soon evolve into the creation of a worldwide sport.

Upon returning home to Toronto, BATL founder and CEO Matt Wilson decided to set up a target in his backyard and invite some friends over to show them just how cathartic throwing a sharp axe into wood could be. A point system was created, and soon enough a group of 8 friends would meet every week and engage in some friendly competition. 8 friends quickly grew to 16, and 16 quickly grew to 32. Before he knew it, Matt was hosting 2 full leagues of a total of 60+ per night in his backyard, not including all the spectators that would stop by to catch a glimpse of our exciting new sport.

Fast forward to 2015 when the Backyard Axe Throwing League joined forces with newly opened axe throwing venue Tomahawks to become BATL London – bringing our style of urban axe throwing to the masses of London, Ontario – and we haven’t looked back since! Over the past 3 years, BATL London has hosted people from all over South Western Ontario and taught them the ways of our sport, and it’s been a complete success. On top of that, BATL London is constantly engaging with our community, partnering up with local charities, local sports teams, and more.

If you have yet to experience the unique thrill of our sport, what are you waiting for? BATL London offers many ways to get involved with our unique brand of urban axe throwing. Outside of the London area? Not to worry, BATL boats 15 venues across North America, including Toronto, Kitchener, Pickering, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Ottawa, and Calgary in Canada and Novi, Chicago, Scottsdale, Houston and Nashville in the United States – with more on the way this year.

What We Offer at BATL

Private Group Bookings at The Backyard Axe Throwing League

Our private group bookings are perfectly suited for any adult get-togethers – birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate team building, and much much more. Our private events last 2-2.5 hours and are run in the safe and comfortable environment that BATL has become famous for by our expertly trained staff, who also happen to be the best axe throwers in the planet. They will run you and your guests through training to ensure that you’re all sticking bullseyes before launching you into a round robin tournament, followed by a playoff (in order to crown a champion, of course). A little friendly competition can go a long way, so gather your friends and come experience it for yourself!

Walk-in Axe Throwing

If you’re looking for a more casual way to get involved, all 13 BATL venues across North America offer walk-in axe throwing each and every weekend. The Backyard Axe Throwing League offers axe throwing on a walk-in basis at designated times each week. Our coaches will be on hand to instruct those who have never thrown an axe before, and offer tips on technique for more experienced throwers looking to sharpen their skills. Similar to public skating, skiing or swimming – guests throw in a common area with other participants, and may need to make allowance for shared space based on friendly guidance from your BATL coach.

Weekly Axe Throwing League Play

Our axe throwing leagues run for 8 weeks, completely under the guidance of our staff – all resident axe pros. Each season consists of round-robin style tournament play, where you’ll throw 28 games against other people in the league, culminating in a top 16 double elimination playoff on week 8. Our leagues are suitable for people of all skill levels, with staff on hand at all times ready to give you tips and tricks to make sure that you’re hitting the bullseye. Joining an axe throwing league is a great excuse to get out of the house and engage in some weekly friendly competition. But more than that, it’s a chance to meet new friends and be part of an extremely tight-knit community. At BATL, our mission is to show people the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community inspired by our backyard roots.

No matter how you choose to get involved, stop by BATL London and see for yourself what all the fuss is about!

Top Things To Do In Kitchener Ontario

Kitchener-Waterloo is more than just the home to Canada’s largest Oktoberfest. With a population of over 240,000, Kitchener offers big-city excitement without losing its small-town charm. Located in the heart of Southwest Ontario, Waterloo Region provides the perfect balance between rural and urban, nature and technology, classical and contemporary, tranquillity and adventure. Also known as Silicon Valley North. It’s quite the title to live up to, but the growing branch of tech companies from Kitchener-Waterloo to Toronto are making it a reality. With offices for Google, Communitech, OpenText, Shopify, and more, Kitchener-Waterloo has become one of Canada’s technology hot spots, and boasts some of the highest success rates in the country for the tech companies that are based here. More than that, Kitchener is set amongst some of the most scenic locations in Ontario – which makes it a great hub for both outdoor and indoor activities. Looking for the best ways to spend your time in the Tri-City area? Look no further than a trip to BATL Kitchener. Located in the heart of Kitchener-Waterloo (and also serving Cambridge, Guelph, Ayr, Elmira, Paris, and more) the Backyard Axe Throwing League has delivered axe throwing to the Tri-Cities since 2015. Only 2 blocks from King and Victoria Streets, BATL Kitchener can host parties from 2 – 90 people, and is easily accessible from Cambridge, Elora, Fergus, Princeton, Paris, and the entire Golden Horseshoe. While you’re axe throwing, BATL Kitchener offers a fully licensed bar and kitchen serving a selection of local beers, wine and coolers as well as a delicious shareable food menu in partnership with Pepi’s Pizza and Southern Ontario Smoked BBQ. Wondering how it all started? Back in 2006, a group of friends were bored at a cottage outside of Toronto and decided to throw an axe at a stump. Little did they know that this innocent way to pass the time would soon evolve into the creation of a worldwide sport. Upon returning home to Toronto, BATL founder and CEO Matt Wilson decided to set up a target in his backyard and invite some friends over to show them just how cathartic throwing a sharp axe into wood could be. A point system was created, and soon enough a group of 8 friends would meet every week and engage in some friendly competition. 8 friends quickly grew to 16, and 16 quickly grew to 32. Before he knew it, Matt was hosting 2 full leagues of a total of 60+ per night in his backyard, not including all the spectators that would stop by to catch a glimpse of our exciting new sport. Over the past 5 years, BATL Kitchener has hosted people from all over South Western Ontario and taught them the ways of our sport, and it’s been a complete success. On top of that, BATL Kitchener is constantly engaging with our community, partnering up with local charities, local sports teams, and more. BATL offers multiple ways to get involved with the sport of urban axe throwing that we pioneered back in 2006. BATL Casual: Feel like throwing some axes all of a sudden? We love that. Walk-in times are available during specific scheduled hours at all BATL venues every week. The basic details: No minimum group size. One hour axe throwing session, using shared lanes with other guests. No booking required. Our friendly coaches are available for tips and tricks, but throwing areas are only guaranteed for pre-booked events. BATL Premium: At BATL, we keep things pretty light and fun for everyone. First, our coaches will show you how all the basics. You’ll throw around a bit and get the hang of it. Then, the tournament – and trash talk – start. If you chose BATL Premium, you get 1.5 hours, a dedicated coach, and even more, chances to throw than if you chose BATL Casual. League Play: If you’ve enjoyed throwing an axe at BATL at any point, you need to join a league. They’re the perfect excuse to get together with friends, make some new ones, and trash talk each other. No matter your experience level, you’ll compete individually and receive tips from our coaches. Joining an axe-throwing league is a great excuse to get out of the house and engage in some weekly friendly competition. But more than that, it’s a chance to meet new friends and be part of an extremely tight-knit community. If you have yet to experience the unique thrill of our sport, what are you waiting for? BATL Kitchener offers many ways to get involved with our unique brand of urban axe throwing. Outside of the Tri-City area? Not to worry, BATL boasts 16 venues across North America, including Toronto, Vaughn, Kitchener, Pickering, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Ottawa, and Calgary in Canada and Novi, Chicago, Nashville, Scottsdale, Houston, and Orlando in the United States – with more locations on the way this year! The Kitchener-Waterloo area has tons to offer to visitors and residents alike. Here are some of our other top activities in the Kitchener area: Spend A Day Sampling Local Craft Brews Nothing quite says summer like a frosty beer on a sunny patio. If you’re in the Kitchener/Waterloo region, there are no shortage of options to do just that – most of which offer food, just in case you need a little something to pad your stomach in the process. While there are brew giants like Sleeman and Waterloo Brewery in the area, why not try the little guys? With breweries like Barncat Artisan Ales, Innocente, Grand River Brewing, Block 3, and Descendants you can easily make an entire day of it. Just remember to drink responsibly, and bring along a designated driver if you’re planning on making it a day-long event! Catch A Hockey Game Canada and hockey go together like cookies and milk. So what better way to spend a day in Kitchener than taking in a hockey game? The Kitchener Rangers call The Kitchener Memorial Auditorial Complex – simply known around town as The Aud – home. It offers a chance to take in some of the brightest stars of the Ontario Hockey League before they make their way to the NHL, and also makes for a cheap outing! Spend A Saturday Morning At The Market One of the main hotspots in the KW area is the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. Located north of Waterloo’s campus, the market is a place for people to shop for organic and local groceries and products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, quality meats and cheeses, locally produced maple syrup, honey, preserves, baking, crafts, housewares, wearables, and more. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and spend time with your family or friends.

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Axe Throwing In Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas. BATL opened its doors in Houston, Texas this past spring – setting the stage for axe throwing to take over. The Houston metro area has long been known as a hub for creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, as well as a thriving hub for arts, culture, and dining. Naturally, all of those factors make BATL a perfect fit – and we’re excited to make Houston the home of our first BATL venue in the Lone Star State, serving the entire area of Greater Houston including The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Baytown, and Conroe. The Houston Chronicle recently had a feature on BATL Houston, and they summed it up nicely: “There are few activities that double as lightly competitive neighborhood get-together and skill-building set for the zombie apocalypse, but backyard axe throwing is one. The Heights chapter of the Backyard Axe Throwing League is hard at work bringing the growing sport to Houston…Think of axe throwing as cornhole or darts, but more so. Competitors stand away from a target and hurl axes towards it for points. The axes used are camping hatchets, not full-sized ones or that battleaxe you picked up from the Renaissance Festival.” This is just the beginning, as BATL gears up to open new locations in Texas this year in Austin and San Antonio (just to name a few). Wondering what it is that makes BATL the premier urban axe throwing destination in North America? Look no further. Who We Are It’s been almost 13 years since the Backyard Axe Throwing League brought urban axe throwing to the masses, using the axe as a tool to bring people together. Back in 2006, a group of friends were bored at a cottage outside of Toronto and decided to throw an axe at a stump. Little did they know that this innocent way to pass the time would soon evolve into the creation of a worldwide sport. Upon returning home to Toronto, BATL founder and CEO Matt Wilson decided to set up a target in his backyard and invite some friends over to show them just how cathartic throwing a sharp axe into wood could be. A point system was created, and soon enough a group of 8 friends would meet every week and engage in some friendly competition. 8 friends quickly grew to 16, and 16 quickly grew to 32. Before he knew it, Matt was hosting 2 full leagues of a total of 60+ per night in his backyard, not including all the spectators that would stop by to catch a glimpse of our exciting new sport. Before long, we had to move our operations indoors – which led to opening 10 locations across Canada between 2015-2018. That was just the beginning. Expansion Into The US In 2017, BATL stepped across the border to open our very first location in the United States. We partnered with Throw Nashville to bring BATL’s brand of urban axe throwing to Music City, now BATL Nashville, and that would mark the beginning of our US growth. Shortly after, we teamed forces with Thunderbolt Axe Throwing to bring BATL’s brand of urban axe throwing to the Chicago Masses. It instantly caught on in the windy city, and BATL Chicago has been a driving force in the community or Irving Park ever since. In 2018, we opened the doors to BATL Novi, bringing axe throwing to metro Detroit. Finally, in December of 2018, BATL Scottsdale opened to the public, bringing axe throwing to the Valley of the Sun. The Phoenix greater area now as the ability to experience the unique thrill provided by axe throwing, and we’re excited to begin to grow the sport. Recently, BATL Houston and BATL Orlando opened in 2019. What To Expect At BATL Houston League Play: It’s no secret that the foundations of BATL start with our axe throwing leagues. Thousands strong we show the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community inspired by our backyard roots. BATL Houston will be no exception. Our axe throwing leagues run for 8 weeks, completely under the guidance of our resident axe gurus. Each season consists of round-robin style tournament play, where you’ll throw 28 games against other people in the league, culminating in a top 16 double elimination playoff on week 8. Our leagues are suitable for people of all skill levels, with staff on hand at all times ready to give you tips and tricks to make sure that you’re hitting the bullseye. League play falls under the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF) umbrella, the world’s foremost governing body of the sport of axe throwing (of which BATL is a founding member). Being part of the IATF also gives you access to the most advanced statistic tracking in the sport of urban axe throwing. BATL Casual: If you’re looking for a casual way to get involved with the sport of axe throwing, all BATL venues offer public walk-in sessions (no reservations required) every weekend during set times. It’s the perfect way to test the water when it comes to axe throwing, with little commitment. Our expert coaches are on hand to guide you the whole way, so whether you’re new to the sport or looking to hone in on your skill BATL Houston has you covered. BATL Premium: BATL Houston offers private event bookings lasting 1.5 hours for groups of 6 and up. You’ll get the full experience that BATL has become world-famous for: the best one on one instruction from our skilled and friendly staff members, followed by a round-robin style tournament, single-elimination playoff, and big axe practice – all orchestrated by our staff, leaving you with nothing to do but throw axes and enjoy the company of your guests. These parties are perfectly suited to any adult gatherings (bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate team building, adult birthdays, or even just a night out with friends) and BATL Houston offers complete bar and food services, which means even less planning for you. Stop by BATL Houston and experience first hand the unique thrill of axe throwing, and stay tuned for more news on BATL’s expansion in Texas this coming year!

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BATL Vaughan Grand Opening

Join us for our official Grand Opening party at BATL Vaughan! Experience an exclusive night of FREE axe throwing, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, food & drinks, and a chance to win great prizes! Save-the-date on Facebook! Date: Friday, January 17, 2020 Time: 6 pm to 10 pm Location: BATL Vaughan, 1600 Steeles Ave W Unit 12, Concord, ON L4K 4M2 and there’s more….extended free axe throwing: to keep the celebration going, join us for more nights of free axe throwing on Friday, January 24 and January 31 from 6 – 10pm. BATL Vaughan BATL was founded in the backyard of CEO Matt Wilson in 2006. What started as a personal passion sparked by a camping trip soon spread through word of mouth in Toronto, and today over 2 million people have experienced the thrill of throwing axes at one of our locations, including our Vaughan location. Vaughan Axe Throwing Leagues Our weekly axe throwing leagues in North Toronto is the perfect excuse to get together with friends, make a few new ones and enjoy a little competition. With no experience necessary you’ll compete individually while receiving tips from our friendly BATL Vaughan coaches – and plenty of time to hang out during your time throwing. Outdoor Axe Throwing in Vaughan Our outdoor axe throwing packages throughout southern Ontario are fully insured, equipped and available for both full and half-day axe throwing bookings. Our team of expert and awesome coaches can provide a customized axe throwing experience based on your personal group needs to make your next event one of the most incredible memories of the year for everyone who participates.

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Host Your Christmas Party at BATL Scottsdale

Scottsdale may have a reputation as a travel destination, but it’s also a city brimming with vibrant community, arts, and much more. It’s a city that promises abundant amenities, from vibrant outdoor activities and sports to a thriving downtown and waterfront. The city of over 220,000 inhabitants is known for excellent quality of life mixed with tourist appeal. Not just a city of retirees, people are flocking to Scottsdale for its family friendly reputation. With a buzzing arts and culture scene, many schools that are ranked top in the state, and endless potential for outdoor activity, it’s no wonder that the younger demographic are taking Scottsdale by storm. The downtown area – known as Old Town Scottsdale – is one of the most unique urban downtown centres in the American Southwest. Its pedestrian-friendly streets are home to world class art galleries, museums, restaurants and retail shops. When the sun goes down, the area really shines – with world class bars, restaurants, and nightlife options. Old Town Scottsdale is also known for hosting great events throughout the year such as markets, art walks, festivals, parades, concerts, and block parties. With the last weeks of 2019 upon us, businesses all across Arizona (and North America in general) are scrambling to plan their last minute holiday season corporate outings. It’s never too late to start planning, after all. There are many things to consider when planning a corporate group outing for you and your team to ensure a memorable time for everybody involved. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for team-building activities. But by paying attention to the everyday routine of your team, getting employees involved in planning, and asking strategic questions, you can keep the eye rolls to a minimum. With all these things considered, where do you go next? Gone are the days of traditional staff get togethers – and nothing quite breaks tradition like axe throwing. BATL was founded in a Toronto backyard back in 2006. What started as a personal passion sparked by a camping trip soon spread through word of mouth in Toronto, and today nearly 2 million people have experienced the thrill of throwing axes. The Backyard Axe Throwing League has never been more accessible and now boasts 16 venues across North America (Toronto, Kitchener, Pickering, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Ottawa, and Calgary in Canada and Novi, Chicago, Houston, Orlando, Scottsdale and Nashville in the United States – not to mention more venues set to open in 2020). Want to know what BATL Scottsdale is all about? We’ve got you covered. The History of Axe Throwing The sport of axe throwing was established in 2006 in the Toronto backyard of Matt Wilson. What started as a personal passion sparked by a camping trip with friends soon spread through word-of-mouth in Toronto. Matt Wilson spent his career learning the ropes of the hospitality business in Toronto, which enabled the creation of the first-ever urban axe throwing venue in Toronto, The Backyard Axe Throwing League. Urban axe throwing is comprised of ‘arenas,’ which are similar to a cross between a batting cage and bowling alley, with private space for groups of any size. BATL, The Backyard Axe Throwing League The Backyard Axe Throwing League’s mission is to show people the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community inspired by the background roots. Matt Wilson’s BATL is the first organization in the world to offer an urban venue to experience the thrill of indoor axe throwing. Today over 1 million people have experienced the thrill of the sport across the globe. With the success of BATL in the Greater Toronto Area, expansion was possible into Detroit, Pickering, Hamilton, London, Calgary, Ottawa, Kitchener-Waterloo, Nashville, Niagara Falls, and Chicago. This has encouraged and excited celebrities and television show segments such as; Hockey Wives, Grand Opry’s Another Round, Ruby Rose, Vin Diesel, Gerard Butler, George Parros, Clive Standen, Hannibal Buress, and many more. What To Expect During A To BATL Scottsdale At BATL, we stand by the belief that throwing an epic party should be fun and simple. BATL Premium private event packages run for 1.5 hours and are run in the safe and comfortable environment that BATL has become famous for. You’ll be in the hands of our expertly trained staff, who also happen to be the best axe throwers in the planet. They will run you and your guests through training to ensure that you’re all sticking bullseyes before launching you into a round robin tournament, followed by a playoff (in order to crown a champion, of course). A little friendly competition is a key to a team building outing so if you’re looking for the perfect event for your next corporate party in Scottsdale, look no further than BATL. We offer flexible food options and private space to fit any Christmas party’s needs. Trophies and streetwear are available as add-ons for an even more personal touch. Private events cost $35 – $42 + tax per person and are perfectly suited to adult birthday parties, corporate team building events, and bachelor/bachelorette parties. BATL Casual is perfect if you’re looking for a casual way to get involved with the sport of axe throwing. All BATL venues offer public walk-in sessions (no reservations required) every weekend. It’s the perfect way to test the water when it comes to axe throwing, with little commitment. Our expert coaches are on hand to guide you the whole way, so whether you’re new to the sport or looking to hone in on your skill BATL has you covered. BATL Casual is offered on Friday: 7PM – 9PM*, Saturday: 12PM – 2PM, and Sunday: 2PM – 4PM. *We also offer BATL Casual from 5PM – 11PM Friday (Nashville Only). BATL League Play is suited to those who just can’t get enough axe throwing. It’s the perfect excuse to get together with friends, make a few new ones and enjoy a little competition along the way. With no experience necessary you’ll compete individually while receiving tips from our friendly coaches – and plenty of time to hang out between throwing. Our calendar culminates in the International Axe Throwing Championship, with qualifying players competing against the best throwers globally for the Wilson Cup and $25000 in prize money. BATL Premium private event bookings are available 7 days a week, from 11:00AM to 11:00PM. That means no matter what time is best suited for your staff holiday outing, we’ll be ready for you. Learn more about hosting your Christmas party at BATL Scottsdale, and make your next staff outing one to remember.

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Premier Axe Throwing Destination In Nashville

For country-music fans and wannabe songwriters all over the world, a trip to Nashville is the ultimate pilgrimage. Since the 1920s the city has been attracting musicians, who have taken the country genre from the ‘hillbilly music’ of the early 20th century to the slick ‘Nashville sound’ of the 1960s to the punk-tinged alt-country of the 1990s. Nashville’s many musical attractions range from the Country Music Hall of Fame to the revered Grand Ole Opry to Jack White’s niche record label. It also has a lively university community and a blistering hot restaurant scene. On top of that, Nashville has now surpassed Las Vegas as the most popular Bachelor/Bachelorette party destination in North America. If you need a break from bachelorette party shenanigans, you can step outside for natural distractions aplenty. An ever-growing network of pedestrian and bike-friendly greenways links Nashville’s city parks, which unfurl over rolling hills and lush riparian landscapes. B-Cycle bike-rental stations are conveniently placed at greenway trailheads. Nature and outdoor centers inside the larger parks offer kid-friendly activities and nature walks. In total, the city park system sprawls across more than 12,000 acres in 108 parks. Kayaking and canoeing trips on the gentle Harpeth River are well-suited to families. Simply put: Nashville is the place to be. Thinking about axe throwing as part of your Nashville experience? Look no further. BATL (the Backyard Axe Throwing League) is not only the premier axe throwing destination in North America, we’re also the pioneers of the sport. Bringing the sport of urban axe throwing to the masses since 2006, we’re the foremost authority on the thrilling pastime that’s taken the world by storm. Wondering who we are and just how we started? Learn a little bit more about BATL, the Backyard Axe Throwing League. When we at BATL pioneered the sport of urban axe throwing back in 2006 in a downtown Toronto backyard, we had no idea how far it would reach – but we knew it was something that just about anyone would enjoy. We were right. From our humble beginnings, the Backyard Axe Throwing League quickly outgrew its own backyard, and went on to open 10 locations across Canada over the course of a few years. In 2017, BATL stepped across the border to open our very first location in the United States. We partnered with Throw Nashville to bring BATL’s brand of urban axe throwing to Music City, and that would mark the beginning of our US growth. Opened in 2017, BATL Nashville quickly began turning heads in the state of Tennessee. It didn’t take long for us to become part of our community, and have gone on to offer so much more than axe throwing. For one, BATL Nashville has played host to numerous groups of veterans, offering axe throwing as a form of therapy. Nashville’s Fox17 News got wind of what we were doing and shed some light on it in a recent article: “Therapy comes in various forms, according to Jonathan League, the general manager of BATL, The Backyard Axe Throwing League. BATL has grown in the past decade from Canada to several locations nationwide. League, a veteran as well, partnered with the founder to open a location in Music City. While League built his first target, he says a friend…”Was completely changed. He didn’t need drugs or a long talk. He just needed to throw an ax.” If you’re wondering how a trip to BATL can be incorporated into your next outing in Nashville, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. BATL offers many ways to get involved with the urban sport of axe throwing, which means finding the right option is as easy as hitting a bullseye. We offer: League Play: It’s no secret that the foundations of BATL start with our axe throwing leagues. Thousands strong we show the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community inspired by our backyard roots. Our axe throwing leagues run for 8 weeks, completely under the guidance of our resident axe gurus. Each season consists of round-robin style tournament play, where you’ll throw 28 games against other people in the league, culminating in a top 16 double elimination playoff on week 8. Our leagues are suitable for people of all skill levels, with staff on hand at all times ready to give you tips and tricks to make sure that you’re hitting the bullseye. League play falls under the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF) umbrella, the world’s foremost governing body of the sport of axe throwing (of which BATL is a founding member). Being part of the NATF also gives you access to the most advanced statistic tracking in the sport of urban axe throwing. BATL Casual: If you’re looking for a casual way to get involved with the sport of axe throwing, all BATL venues offer public walk-in sessions (no reservations required) every weekend. It’s the perfect way to test the water when it comes to axe throwing, with little commitment. Our expert coaches are on hand to guide you the whole way, so whether you’re new to the sport or looking to hone in on your skill BATL has you covered. BATL Casual is offered on Friday: 7PM – 9PM*, Saturday: 12PM – 2PM, and Sunday: 2PM – 4PM. *We also offer BATL Casual from 5PM – 11PM Friday (Nashville Only). Private Axe Throwing Event Bookings: BATL offers private event bookings that last 1.5 hours for groups of 6 and up. You’ll get the same thing that BATL has become famous for the best one on one instruction from our skilled and friendly staff members, followed by a round-robin style tournament, single-elimination playoff, and big axe practice – all orchestrated by our staff, leaving you with nothing to do but throw axes and enjoy the company of your guests. These parties are perfectly suited to any adult gatherings (bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate team building, adult birthdays, etc) and many BATL locations offer complete bar and food services, which means even less planning for you. So whether you live in the Nashville area, or plan on visiting Music City with some friends, stop by BATL Nashville (located at 1302 Gallatin Avenue) and experience the best axe throwing that Tenessee has to offer!

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Free Axe Throwing at BATL

Take some stress off this holiday season! One bullseye at a time. Join us Wednesday, December 11 to throw for free anytime between 6 – 10 pm (local) at every BATL location! Save-the-date on Facebook! Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2019 Time: 6 pm to 10 pm Open Locations: Calgary, 2151 32 St NE #80 Chicago, 4842 W Irving Park Rd Hamilton, 80 James St N Houston Heights, 1431 W 20th St Unit B Kitchener, 69 Agnes St London, 40 Adelaide St N Unit 2 Nashville, 1302 Gallatin Ave Niagara Falls, 4437 Queen St Novi, 44175 West 12 Mile Road suite f-141 Ottawa, 2615 Lancaster Rd #29 Orlando, 55 W Church St Suite 113 Pickering, 813 Brock Rd #11 Scottsdale, 7919 E Thomas Rd #102 Toronto Port Lands, 33 Villiers St Toronto Stockyards 30 Weston Rd Unit C109

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Axe Club of America Joins BATL

We are excited to announce that BATL, The Backyard Axe Throwing League is acquiring Axe Club of America’s (ACoA) three North Carolina locations and their operations effective November 1, 2019. All ACoA venue staff will join the BATL team and we are thrilled to be working together. There are two ACoA venues in Charlotte and one in Winston-Salem. They have been serving their North Carolina communities since 2017. ACoA and BATL are both proud members of the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF). The IATF was established in early 2016 to service the sport of axe throwing globally and facilitate inter-league competition amongst members. The ACoA and BATL relationship has been a good one for a long time and both teams are excited to have been able to make this deal happen. Scott Gadd, one of the founders of ACoA, says they’re ready to fold into the BATL family, who also uphold shared values and beliefs for the community, peers, and the sport of axe throwing. In the short term, the ACoA brand and operations will continue business as usual. In future, we will be looking to adopt best practises from both organizations to best serve our teams and guests. This acquisition continues BATL’s expansion plans throughout North America. ACoA will represent the American east coast hub. Since the sport’s inception in the backyard of BATL CEO Matt Wilson, the business has grown to more than 2 million people experiencing the thrill of axe throwing in our facilities. “We are thrilled to have the ACoA team join the BATL family,” said Wilson, “and we are looking forward to working together with ACoA to further grow the sport of axe throwing.” With 19 locations – and more to come – BATL is one of the premier axe throwing organizations in North America. BATL’s guiding principle is simple: to show people the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community. Welcome to the BATL community to everyone at ACoA!

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Event

BATL Orlando Grand Opening

Join us for our official Grand Opening party at BATL Orlando! Experience an exclusive night of FREE axe throwing, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, food & drinks, and a chance to win great prizes! Save-the-date on Facebook! Date: Friday, November 15, 2019 Time: 7 pm to 11 pm Location: BATL Orlando is located in the Church St. Marketplace on W. Pine St. at 55 W Church St. and there’s more….extended free axe throwing: to keep the celebration going, join us for more nights of free axe throwing on Friday, November 22 from 7 – 11 pm! About BATL Orlando BATL, The Backyard Axe Throwing League was established in the backyard of CEO Matt Wilson in 2006. What began as a personal passion ignited by a camping trip soon travelled through word of mouth in Toronto, and today nearly 2 million people have experienced the adventure of throwing axes at one of our locations, including our new facility in Orlando, Florida. The Backyard Axe Throwing League is the premier axe throwing facility in Florida. BATL Orlando is located in the heart of downtown Orlando in the Church Street Market Place and is capable of hosting parties from 2 to over 100 people. Orlando Axe Throwing Leagues Our weekly axe throwing leagues will be the best excuse to get together with friends, make a few new ones and enjoy a little competition in Orlando, Florida. With no experience necessary you’ll compete individually, while receiving tips from our friendly BATL Orlando coaches – and plenty of time to relax between axe throwing. Outdoor Axe Throwing in Orlando Our outdoor axe throwing packages are completely insured, equipped and available for both full and half-day bookings throughout Orlando and Florida. Our team of expert staff can provide a customized axe throwing experience based on your unique event needs to make your next event one of the most amazing memories of the year for everyone who participates in axe throwing!

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General

Everything You Need To Know About BATL: The Backyard Axe Throwing League

Who We Are: BATL BATL (the Backyard Axe Throwing League) is not only the premier axe throwing destination in North America, we’re also the pioneers of the sport. Bringing the sport of urban axe throwing to the masses since 2006, we’re the foremost authority on the thrilling pastime that’s taken the world by storm. Wondering who we are and just how we started? Learn a little bit more about BATL, the Backyard Axe Throwing League. The History Of BATL The sport of urban axe throwing that has taken the world by storm started in way way that is fairly predictable: at a cottage with friends. In 2006, founder and CEO Matt Wilson to a cabin in Southern Ontario with his closest pals and after hours of rain, they had to find a way to keep busy. The group began throwing hatches at a tree, and instantly felt the cathartic release of sinking an axe into softwood. Little did they know this was the start of something huge. Upon returning home to Toronto Matt decided to set up a target in his backyard and invite some friends over to show them just how enjoyable throwing an axe could be. They didn’t need much convincing. Before long a point system was created, and soon enough a group of 8 friends would meet every week and engage in some friendly competition. 8 friends quickly grew to 16, and 16 quickly grew to 32. Before he knew it, Matt was hosting 2 full leagues of a total of 60+ per night in his backyard, not including all the spectators that would stop by to catch a glimpse of our exciting new sport. It didn’t take long for the crowds of people that had heard of our weekly axe meetings in a downtown Toronto backyard to make us realized that we had outgrown our small space. In 2011, BATL made its first move indoors into a nondescript warehouse in the west end of the city. With Matt still working his job as a bartender 3 days a week, our new location could only host leagues 4 nights a week – and believe it or not, that wasn’t nearly enough. The wait list continued to grow, and we quickly realized that we had to make this experience available to not just our league members but also the more casual would-be axe thrower. BATL instantly started offering private tournaments, and that’s when axe throwing began to take off. The Expansion Of The Backyard Axe Throwing League Our only location was fully booked three months in advance year round, making it obvious to us that the demand for axe throwing wasn’t going anywhere. In December of 2013, BATL opened its second location in a huge space in the east end of Toronto (nearly 5 times the size of our Sterling Road location), and the rest is history. Since then, BATL has ballooned to have 15 locations (including Toronto, Pickering, Ottawa, Niagara Falls, London, Kitchener, Hamilton, and Calgary in Canada; in addition to Novi, Scottsdale, Houston, Nashville, Chicago, and Orlando in the United States). BATL now employs nearly 400 expertly trained axe gurus that teach over 300,000 people a year how to have an amazing time while throwing an axe. Countless celebrities have since graced us with their presence at locations everywhere, and we’ve been featured on TSN, CBC and The History Channel, MTV, Vice, and more – in addition to The Atlantic, the Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post in print. What We Offer: All Things Axe Throwing Axe Throwing League Play: It’s no secret that the foundations of BATL start with our axe throwing leagues. Thousands strong we show the power of being good to each other, using the axe as a tool to build community inspired by our backyard roots. Our axe throwing leagues run for 8 weeks, completely under the guidance of our resident axe gurus. Each season consists of round-robin style tournament play, where you’ll throw 28 games against other people in the league, culminating in a top 16 double elimination playoff on week 8. Our leagues are suitable for people of all skill levels, with staff on hand at all times ready to give you tips and tricks to make sure that you’re hitting the bullseye. League play falls under the National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF) umbrella, the worlds foremost governing body of the sport of axe throwing (of which BATL is a founding member). Being part of the NATF also gives you access to the most advanced statistic tracking in the sport of urban axe throwing. Walk-In Axe Throwing Sessions: If you’re looking for a casual way to get involved with the sport of axe throwing, all BATL venues offer public walk-in sessions (no reservations required) every weekend. It’s the perfect way to test the water when it comes to axe throwing, with little commitment. Our expert coaches are on hand to guide you the whole way, so whether you’re new to the sport or looking to hone in on your skill BATL has you covered. Private Axe Throwing Event Bookings: BATL offers two types of private event bookings: 1-hour bookings for groups of 2-5 people, and 2-2.5 hour bookings for groups of 6 and up. No matter which private event you book, you’ll get the same thing that BATL has become famous for the best one on one instruction from our skilled and friendly staff members, followed by a round robin style tournament and single elimination playoff – all orchestrated by our staff, leaving you with nothing to do but throw axes and enjoy the company of your guests. These parties are perfectly suited to any adult gatherings (bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate team building, adult birthdays, etc) and many BATL locations offer complete bar and food services, which means even less planning for you. If you haven’t made the trip to BATL, find a location near you and experience the unique thrill of axe throwing for yourself!

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How To Throw An Axe at BATL

The Backyard Axe Throwing League pioneered the sport of urban axe throwing back in 2006, so it’s no surprise that we’re known across the world as the best at what we do. It all started with a group of friends were bored at a cottage outside of Toronto and decided to throw an axe at a stump. Little did they know that this innocent way to pass the time would soon evolve into the creation of a worldwide sport. Upon returning home to Toronto, BATL founder and CEO Matt Wilson decided to set up a target in his backyard and invite some friends over to show them just how cathartic throwing a sharp axe into wood could be. A point system was created, and soon enough a group of 8 friends would meet every week and engage in some friendly competition. 8 friends quickly grew to 16, and 16 quickly grew to 32. Before he knew it, Matt was hosting 2 full leagues of a total of 60+ per night in his backyard, not including all the spectators that would stop by to catch a glimpse of our exciting new sport. It’s 2019, and BATL now has 15 locations across North America. You can find the Backyard Axe Throwing League in Toronto, Pickering, Ottawa, Kitchener, London, Niagara Falls, Calgary, and Hamilton in Canada; and Chicago, Novi/Detroit, Nashville, Scottsdale, and Houston in the US. It truly has never been easier to experience the unique thrill of axe throwing with BATL. Worried that your skills may not yet be developed for the sport of urban axe throwing? We’ve devised a handy guide to help you out with your axe throwing game. Check out these tips from our resident axe gurus: Basics / Your Axe Throwing Stance It’s always good to start with the basics. These tips will help you get ready to throw your axe: It’s important to start with your opposite foot forward, in order to create balance with your dominant leg. When you’re throwing, it’s important to remember two things: lean in, and follow through. Keep your arms straight and your eyes level with the target on the board. This will keep you focused, and help you with aiming. How to Aim Your Axe Now that you’ve got your stance, the next step is to aim your axe. These are some things to keep in mind: Keep your eyes on the target – look directly at where you want the axe to go, and throw! Aiming is all muscle memory, so try to replicate your motions every time you have a successful throw. Breathe! Two Handed Throwing Technique This is the standard technique that we’ve been teaching our guests for the last 13 years: Place your dominant hand at the bottom of the axe Wrap your other hand around your dominant hand Keep your thumbs off the back of your axe Bring the axe all the way back Lean in all the way forward while releasing your axe One Handed Throwing Technique We always recommend starting with two hands, but there is a certain allure to the one handed throw. Keep these things in mind when throwing with one hand: Keep your thumb off the back of the axe Keep your elbow in Don’t bring your arm across your body when releasing (like a baseball pitcher) Less is more. You don’t have to throw your hardest The Big Axe One of the most exciting parts of axe throwing, the big axe can be daunting. But really, it’s just like throwing a hatchet. Here are some tips to help you master the big axe: Always use both hands on the axe, stacked on the handle like you’re holding a baseball bat with your dominant hand on top The big axe takes longer to rotate – you’ll need to stand back 5 feet from the hatchet throwing line It’s imporant to bring the axe all the way back, to generate more power due to the weight Aim high! Adusting Your Throw There’s always a learning curve when learning a new skill. It’s helpful to identify issues and correct your throw as you learn. These are some possible adjustments you can make: Standing further or closer to adjust axe rotation issues Move your stance from left to right to compensate for accuracy Adjusting your power levels to improve your control If you keep these things in mind, you’ll be hitting bullseyes in no time. Now that you have a grasp of the basics of axe throwing, you just need to figure out what Backyard Axe Throwing League experience is best for you. BATL offers many ways to get involved with axe throwing, suited to any and every event. Walk-in Axe Throwing: If you’re looking for a casual way to get involved with the sport of axe throwing, all BATL venues offer public walk-in sessions (no reservations required) every weekend. It’s the perfect way to test the water when it comes to axe throwing, with little commitment. Our expert coaches are on hand to guide you the whole way, so whether you’re new to the sport or looking to hone in on your skill BATL has you covered. Private Event Bookings: Our private event group bookings are offered for groups of 2 and up and are perfectly suited for any occasion – adult birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate team building, or just an outing with friends. Private event bookings include one on one coaching from our expert staff, followed by a round robin tournament and playoff and last from 2-2.5 hours. Weekly League Play: Looking to master how to throw an axe at BATL? Then check out our weekly axe throwing leagues. Our leagues are the perfect excuse to get together with friends, make a few new ones and enjoy a little competition. With no experience necessary you’ll compete individually while receiving tips from our friendly coaches – and plenty of time to hang out between throwing. Find the axe throwing experience that is right for you, and plan a trip to BATL: the Backyard Axe Throwing League for your next outing!

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The Best Axe Throwing Experience In London, Ontario

The City of London, Ontario

The History of Axe Throwing at BATL

What We Offer at BATL

Private Group Bookings at The Backyard Axe Throwing League

Walk-in Axe Throwing

Weekly Axe Throwing League Play

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