At Epic Axe Throwing in Orlando, we’re lucky to have some of the best axe throwing coaches in the country — and one of them is Tom Knapp, a seasoned competitor who has taken his passion for throwing from a backyard hobby all the way to world championships.
But Tom isn’t just a competitor. He’s also the head coach for our corporate team building events in Orlando, helping groups from the Orange County Convention Center and beyond discover the fun, focus, and energy of axe throwing together.
From Roofing to the Bullseye 🎯
Tom’s introduction to axe throwing was almost by accident. At a local Scottish festival in 2017, his girlfriend suggested he try after buying a tomahawk. At first, he wasn’t interested, but after a couple of throws, he hit two bullseyes out of three. He entered the competition later that day and, out of a field of about 70 competitors, walked away with first place.
What started as a fun hobby in the backyard soon became something more serious. Tom wasn’t satisfied with his roofing job, and when he heard about Epic Axe Throwing opening in Orlando, he jumped at the chance to turn his passion into a career. He’s been part of the Epic family ever since.
Competing at the Highest Level
Tom began competing in axe throwing leagues in 2018 and quickly became a dominant force. By 2019, he had turned fully competitive, winning around 20 leagues in both hatchet (up to 19”) and big axe (23”+) events.
His proudest achievements include qualifying for six consecutive World Axe Throwing Championships, competing in both hatchet and big axe divisions. Even more impressive? Tom has thrown multiple perfect games: 8 bullseyes and 2 kill-shots with hatchets, and 4 bullseyes with 1 kill-shot using big axe.
In the Official Big Axe Season 3 (2025) of the World Axe Throwing League, Tom reached an impressive #17 ranking worldwide — proof of his skill at the highest level of competition.
When asked about his proudest wins, Tom says:
“Anytime I can win a league is special. At first I dominated easily, but now the competition has grown stronger. That makes every win mean even more.”
Coaching at Epic Axe Throwing
While Tom loves competing, one of his favorite parts of the sport is coaching first-timers and corporate groups at Epic Axe Throwing in Orlando.
From a Corporate Organizer:
“We had an absolutely fantastic time at Epic Axe Throwing! From start to finish, the hospitality and service were top-notch, making the entire experience so enjoyable. The atmosphere was fun and welcoming—perfect for creating great memories with our team.” – Peggy U., Google Review
From a Participant:
“I went for a private event and wasn’t sure I could even participate because of a shoulder surgery. The staff went above and beyond to accommodate me, even providing a different axe that worked better. I ended up having such a blast and couldn’t stop! Excellent service — everyone was so friendly and welcoming.” – Andrea G., Google Review
Tom takes pride in making sure everyone has a great experience — whether it’s a convention group of 100 people or a first-time date night guest.
“What I enjoy most is when someone says they’ll be happy just making the axe stick once. I know they’ll get more than that, usually even a bullseye!” Tom says with a smile.
He’s quick to point out that axe throwing isn’t the same as throwing a baseball or football. “If you’ve never been shown how to throw an axe, you don’t know how,” he explains. His coaching style focuses on safety and fundamentals, teaching guests the two approved throws: single rotation (one-handed over the shoulder) and two-handed down the middle.
One of his more memorable guests was former WWE wrestler Mojo Rawley, who regularly came in to challenge him. “He’d always say, ‘Today’s the day I’m going to beat you, brotha!’ I’d tell him, ‘You’ve got as much chance beating me as I have pinning you!’” Tom laughs.
Competing with Confidence
For Tom, mental focus is everything. He doesn’t have any complicated pre-throw rituals. Instead, he tells himself one simple phrase before every throw:
“This is the only throw that matters.”
That mindset has carried him through tough competitions. But he admits the biggest challenge in axe throwing today is staying competitive as the sport grows.
“Back when I started, no one in Orlando was close to my level. Now, people like Dylan Teets — the current World Champion — used to compete in our local leagues. The competition just keeps getting stronger.”
His advice for beginners?
“When you start, you’re going to lose a lot. Don’t let wins and losses define your enjoyment. Listen to advice — even small changes can make a huge difference.”
Outside the Lanes: Tom’s Fun Side 🤘
When he’s not throwing, Tom’s personality is just as bold as his game:
- Celebrity Challenge: Jason Momoa, who’s also an axe throwing enthusiast.
- Walk-up song: Tom Sawyer by Rush.
- Favorite post-throw drink: A simple whiskey and Pepsi.
- Hype music: Classic rock before the 1990s.
- Perfect bullseye feeling in one word: Satisfaction.
Come Throw with Tom at Epic Axe Throwing
Visiting Orlando or planning a corporate team building event in Orlando? Tom Knapp is ready to coach your group with world-championship skill and a friendly, approachable style that makes axe throwing fun for everyone.
Whether you’re planning a private after-party for your convention group, hosting a company outing, or just enjoying a night out with friends, Tom and the rest of our amazing coaches will make your experience unforgettable.
👉 Book your lane today and experience the thrill of hitting your first bullseye with guidance from Tom Knapp himself.
