LEONARDTOWN, Md. — At just 12 years old, Eli Wathen of Leonardtown is proving that axe throwing isn’t just for adults. The young athlete has become a standout with the Viking Axe Throwing league, showcasing not only skill and precision but also dedication to a sport that is quickly gaining traction in Southern Maryland.
Eli is often seen practicing during league nights at Viking Axe Throwing, where participants of all ages gather to sharpen their blades and skills. For him, axe throwing is more than a game — it’s a way to focus, build confidence and take part in a growing community. His success highlights the family-friendly atmosphere Viking Axe Throwing has built, where newcomers and veterans throw side by side in a supportive environment.
Eli says what keeps him coming back each week is “the competition [and] the bullseyes,” a challenge that quickly became a passion. He admitted axe throwing was “pretty hard at first,” but with guidance from the Viking Axe Throwing coaches, he learned the value of a “tight, tight grip” and the focus needed to land a perfect throw.
“They all helped me out for the journey,” Eli said, describing how the league has built his confidence.
The facility itself has grown from just a couple of lanes into a full-scale destination. With multiple throwing options and a league structure that fosters camaraderie, Viking Axe Throwing has positioned itself as both a competitive sport and a recreational outlet. For families in St. Mary’s County, the venue provides a unique opportunity for people like Eli to try something new and find a niche while building community connections.
League nights bring together families, hobbyists and competitors of all ages. Eli’s participation fortifies how the sport has evolved into a family-friendly activity, where younger throwers can learn technique, practice discipline and contribute to a supportive community atmosphere.
For Eli’s mother, Shelly Wathen, the sport has provided something her son hadn’t found in traditional activities. She noted that baseball, soccer and basketball never clicked.
“Eli has always kind of looked for a sport that he’s liked,” Wathen said. “The second he threw that axe and hit the bull’s-eye, we were done. Game on. That was him.”
She added that the league has given Eli both confidence and connection. “He gains that he’s a part of a group and he’s involved in a sport,” Wathen said. “He’s met a lot of new people, made friends, and it’s become his thing every Sunday.”
Sharpen Your Axes for Competition at Action Lounge
Viking Axe Throwing offers a wide range of projectiles, making it an engaging experience for first-timers and seasoned throwers alike. Owners Kraig and Cori Eriksen have made accessibility and inclusivity central to their mission, ensuring the lanes are a place where anyone can feel welcome.
For co-owner Kraig Eriksen, Viking Axe Throwing has always been about more than competition — it’s about building community. Since relocating to Action Lounge in Leonardtown last year, he said the facility has grown into a space that welcomes all ages. League nights and kids’ clubs have quickly become cornerstone activities.
Viking Axe Throwing is expanding with new programs, including a youth league, giving kids like Eli Wathen a chance to sharpen their skills in a structured environment.
“Anybody can throw axes,” Eriksen said. “You just have to find your way, and we’ll help you do that. This is for absolutely everybody.”
For co-owner Cori Eriksen, Viking Axe Throwing is about creating a family-friendly space where everyone feels welcome. Since moving into Action Lounge and Billiards last summer, she said the goal has been to expand recreational options for the community.
“Kids are welcome all the time, we do birthday parties, camps, even a kids’ tournament coming up,” Eriksen said. “It’s great for families because the parents can relax while the kids have the full setup with lanes and activities.”
She said the response from the community has been “incredible,” with Viking Axe Throwing now appearing at local festivals, setting up mobile units across Southern Maryland, and working with youth groups such as Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. She explained that the business is growing toward larger competition circuits like the World Axe Throwing League, while keeping accessibility at the core.
“We make sure it’s safe and fun,” Eriksen said. “Our mission is to keep it welcoming, whether you’re a first-timer, a family or someone who wants to compete.”
For Leonardtown and greater St. Mary’s County, venues like Viking Axe Throwing play an important role in diversifying recreational opportunities. Families who might otherwise need to travel outside the county for unique experiences are now finding them close to home.
A Hub for Community Recreation
The Viking Axe Throwing league is housed inside Action Lounge & Billiards, a local entertainment venue that offers billiards, darts, cornhole, live music, DJs and more. Located on Point Lookout Road in Leonardtown, Action Lounge has become a hub for social gatherings and events, where Viking Axe Throwing adds a dynamic and family-friendly sport.
Together, the two businesses are creating a destination that blends recreation, community spirit and opportunities for both youth and adults. As Eli continues to hone his skills, his story underscores what makes Leonardtown special — a community where even a young axe thrower can find support, encouragement and a place to grow.
For those looking to try their hand at axe throwing, Viking Axe Throwing welcomes participants of all skill levels, from first-timers to league competitors. With its location inside and around the back of Action Lounge & Billiards, visitors can enjoy axe throwing alongside food, music and other games — making it one of Leonardtown’s most unique destinations for fun, family and community connection.
“Anybody can do a bullseye, at any age,” Eli said. “Just follow your dreams and you’ll be good.”
Viking Axe Throwing: (240-346-9654), vikingsaxethrowing@gmail.com
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
This place grows and grows and gets better and better. Such amazing people working and training axe throwing at viking, my family loves going there. They are located at a wonderful family and kid welcomed restaurant and pool hall. Something to do for everyone!