I sat down with Todd Byers, the energetic owner of Axe-Mania in Kingwood, to talk about why axe throwing is booming, what makes Axe-Mania such a special spot, and a fun surprise from his past: a cameo on American Ninja Warrior. Todd's passion for the sport and his commitment to the community really shine through, and I left thinking Axe Mania is a place where beginners and families can feel right at home.

The rise of axe throwing: Where this trend began

Todd traces modern competitive axe throwing back to the early 2000s. While people have been tossing axes for generations, the organized sport as we know it was founded in Canada and really gained traction as leagues formed. By about 2012 the sport took off here in the U.S., and since then axe throwing has exploded into a social, competitive, and family-friendly pastime.

What sets Axe-Mania apart

There are lots of entertainment options in our area, but Todd and his partner Christy built Axe-Mania with a clear vision: a family-friendly venue that is classy yet comfortable. Todd told me they want every visitor to feel like part of the family the moment they walk in the door.

That welcoming environment is paired with a strong focus on safety and instruction. Many customers have never held an axe before, so Axe-Mania makes safety and technique a priority. Every guest receives safety training and coaching when they arrive.

Real expertise behind the coaching

Todd himself was trained by a two-time world champion in Spokane, Washington, and they teach what he calls the Tamburini method. That level of training means guests learn effective, repeatable throwing techniques — not just how to toss an axe, but how to throw it safely and hit the target.

Being part of the community: business lessons from Axe-Mania

Opening a business is more than signing a lease. Todd told me one of the biggest lessons he and Christy learned was to be engaged and present in the community. They joined the chamber early on and stayed active. Todd’s advice to other business owners is simple: don't open your doors and disappear. Be involved. Build relationships. Help others — and they will help you in return.

"You help other people achieve their goals and you will achieve your goals."

Todd gave a shout-out to Mark Linabury for the chamber's supportive environment and emphasized how much being visible and helpful has benefited Axe-Mania.

A memorable tagline

Every time Todd introduces Axe-Mania at chamber breakfasts he has a signature opening and closing. He starts with, "Howdy, folks. Welcome to Axe-Mania." and closes with "Axe-Mania. Our goal is to always be on target." It is simple, memorable, and exactly the kind of consistent brand voice that helps a small business stand out.

The American Ninja Warrior surprise

One of the stories Todd shared made me smile. About a dozen years ago he and his son JT, along with a buddy, attended a taping of American Ninja Warrior in the Katy area. They were part of the audience, and while they were not competing on stage, they were on camera — which counts as an appearance in Todd's book.

It was a neat reminder that sometimes memorable, unexpected moments pop up when you are out in the community doing what you love.

Want to try axe throwing?

If the idea of axe throwing sounds like fun, Axe-Mania is set up to welcome newcomers and families while teaching safe, effective techniques. Whether you come for a date night, a team-building session, or just a new adventure with friends, you will find coaches ready to help you hit the bullseye.

To learn more about local business resources and other chamber members, visit gemcchamber.com. If you follow Community Impact, you can subscribe to Morning Impact at communityimpact.com for local updates.

Final thoughts

• Axe throwing as an organized sport began in Canada in the early 2000s and grew rapidly after leagues formed around 2012.
• Axe-Mania focuses on a family-friendly, comfortable environment with professional training for safety and technique.
• Community involvement and consistent branding have been important to Axe-Mania's success.
• Todd has a fun on-camera memory from American Ninja Warrior when he attended a taping with his son.

From my perspective, Todd and the Axe-Mania team have created more than an entertainment venue. They have created a place where people of all ages can try something new, learn from experienced coaches, and feel like part of a community. If you have five minutes, stop by — you might leave with a new skill, a great story, and a bullseye selfie.