WTSC25 WINNER
Richard Crossland
OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF THE
Watch the
WTSC25 Orientation Film
ft. MICHAEL BALLS
WTSC25 Orientation Film
ft. MICHAEL BALLS
Click the pic to the DropBox link
Our thanks to Ascension Cider for sponsoring the WTSC25 and providing cider prizes for the finalists.
Click the pic for the home of the delicious Pilot cider and more.
Click the pic for the home of the delicious Pilot cider and more.
Watch the
WTSC24 Orientation Film
WTSC24 Orientation Film
Click the pic to the DropBox link
''What a cracking evening, you absolutely smashed it , never had so much fun at a toads event (possibly even
any night of my life)''
any night of my life)''
Save the date. Booked and confirmed.
Entries open in May.
Entries open in May.
WTSC26
Saturday 3rd
October 2026
The Toadstone Trophy in situ at The Black Horse, Lewes
WTSC26
Players'
Reserve List
1. Stu Sampson
2. Niall Duke
3. Finn d'Ascoli
4. Richard Crossland
5. Wayne Saunders
6. Noel Wilkins
7. Jonny Wills
8. Ross Hossack
9. Ed Hill
10. Alex Simmons
11. Josh Saunders
12. Roly Dean
13. Matt Mahoney
14. Marc Doig
15. Damon Bloomfield
16. Noel Halleron
17. Alex Wallace
18. Nick Cooper
19. Jason Buckingham
20. James Porter
21. Declan Rowell
22. Joseph Weller
23. Jake Saunders
24. Dan Saunders
25. Paul Maynard
26. Ian Macquire
27. Kristofer Geisdorf
28. William Platts
29. Dan O' Shea
30. Mark Jordan
31. Greg Bridger
32. Reg Martin
33. Dominic Tubb
34. Tim Parry
35. Jordan Johnson
36. Harry Hewlett
37. Ciaran Armstrong
38. Toby Lewis
39. Guido Möller
40. Ben Robinson
41. Edward Emmerson
42. Phil Smith
43. Misza Pawlicki
44. Jerzy Pawlicki
45. Mark Bruce
46. Mark Madonna
47. Will Entwistle
48. Tom Marcus-Walker
49. Jon McGeough
50. Tom Mills
51. Harry Carruthers
52. Aaron Montgomery
53. Tayla Evans
54. Brad Langley
55. Mark Bell
56. Simon Barris
57. Tim Walker
58. Pete Jarrett
59. Nick Whitehead
60. Brian Corr
61. Joe Fagan
62. Adam King
63. Paul Austen
64. Anders Wilson
''I can tell you put a lot of hard work in to it and thank you for that, but also know it definitely paid off.''
In the run up to the biggest singles tournament in toads we do expect a ten per cent drop-off/swap-out. It's worth getting on the list so send us your number via the DropBox
We will alert the Waiting List group when they come up. It will be first come first served where entry is still only £10 and payment confirms attendance.
We will alert the Waiting List group when they come up. It will be first come first served where entry is still only £10 and payment confirms attendance.
''So different to other tournaments. Just nice to see everyone in that environment.''
WTSC26
Waiting List
When an event space comes up we will simply alert the group with the payment details and its first come first served. If your name is marked in pink below we need your number for the WhatsApp group. Please send it to our DropBox.
Waiting List
When an event space comes up we will simply alert the group with the payment details and its first come first served. If your name is marked in pink below we need your number for the WhatsApp group. Please send it to our DropBox.
- Rachel Conway
- Leo Agthe
- Joe Mockford
- Christian Dew
- Joe Mockford
- Laura Bellamy-Mockford
- Harry Douch
- Steve Burrlock
- Andy Sanders
- Chris Lloyd
- Bekhim Dushkaja
- Dan Springford
- Mat Smith
- Saul Fowler
- Ben Ward
- John Edmondson
- Rob Pettitt
- Michael Siddell
- Martin Hogarth
- Ian Bliszczak
- Justice Yennie
- Christian Cronauer
- Ross Ashley
- Mark Brown
- Anthony Collins
- Rob Swabey
- James Ward
- Robert Bishop
- Boz Davison
- Rachel Thomas
- Mark Jones
- John Miles
- Paul Richardson
- James Edecki
- Thomas Andrei
- Steve Homewood
- Lewis Rawlinson
- Daniel Harris
- Simon Wall
- Tom Harrington
''Great day. Thanks for hosting mate. Looking forward to next year already.''
WTSC25
The 8 Tables
Access to the tables before the tournament is not down to the WTSC, but we do our best to make them available and set a four-week target prior to the event so players can practise.
We also provide oche lengths to practise elsewhere. Where you can't see a table in situ please ask the venue staff to help, and remind them the table is part of the WTSC this year.
Obviously certain pubs have busy periods so don't be disrespectful if you can't get access. We offer a table placing to those in far off regions, as this is the best we can do, but the most established are here in Sussex. Note some tables will also have fresh leads for further fairness.
We also provide oche lengths to practise elsewhere. Where you can't see a table in situ please ask the venue staff to help, and remind them the table is part of the WTSC this year.
Obviously certain pubs have busy periods so don't be disrespectful if you can't get access. We offer a table placing to those in far off regions, as this is the best we can do, but the most established are here in Sussex. Note some tables will also have fresh leads for further fairness.
All oche lengths are measured from the front of the table to the front of the oche bar unless stated. Click on the venue for their respective websites.
1. St Mary's Supporters Club House Table, Lewes: 6ft 9'' from the front. It's two quid for non-members, tell them you're WTSC25 and please respect the club. Tuesdays is darts night
2. WTSC Tournament Table w/ fresh lead: 7ft 3'' Also at St Marys from Saturday 6th September.
3. BN6 Tap Table w/ fresh lead, Hassocks:
7ft 1''
4. The Windmill, Brighton: 7ft 1''
5. The Plough 'Constellation Table', Lower Beeding: 6ft 9 and a 1/2'' The length is measured from the back of the oche bar, as they usually play with a raised oche block. If the table is in the lounge bar, just ask and they should be able to help.
6. The Black Horse Table, Lewes: 7ft There's a similar table at The Howard, Brighton
7. The Fountain Inn, Plumpton: 7ft 2''
8. Players Choice: The Round Georges Monks Chair w/fresh lead, Brighton: 7ft
2. WTSC Tournament Table w/ fresh lead: 7ft 3'' Also at St Marys from Saturday 6th September.
3. BN6 Tap Table w/ fresh lead, Hassocks:
7ft 1''
4. The Windmill, Brighton: 7ft 1''
5. The Plough 'Constellation Table', Lower Beeding: 6ft 9 and a 1/2'' The length is measured from the back of the oche bar, as they usually play with a raised oche block. If the table is in the lounge bar, just ask and they should be able to help.
6. The Black Horse Table, Lewes: 7ft There's a similar table at The Howard, Brighton
7. The Fountain Inn, Plumpton: 7ft 2''
8. Players Choice: The Round Georges Monks Chair w/fresh lead, Brighton: 7ft
For the WTSC25 we're aiming for at least a combination of:
The tables are chosen to reflect the differences in the game in general, with the same distance kept from their respective venue from the front of the oche bar to the front of the table, and respect for play-developed leads.
- four cast leads
- one sheet or wrapped lead
- one alloy-mix lead
- one slider - which may be the same as the sheet lead
- a low-down table
- a bucket-lead or crazy table in some variation
The tables are chosen to reflect the differences in the game in general, with the same distance kept from their respective venue from the front of the oche bar to the front of the table, and respect for play-developed leads.
Venues providing tables are welcome to put on a new lead for fairness. We have had three confirmations of this happening. Thanks to Duncan at BN6 Tap.
The St Mary's lead already constitutes the bucket-lead criterion from the list. The Monks Chair will have a new lead as the hole is too big and we have an alloy-lead already.
There are no league standardisations, nor house rules, as these vary and some are a bit silly or designed for novices.
If it's an old table, we believe the lead should have it's own characteristics from being played on over time, but the hole should not be impassable, and should have reasonable amount of maintenance and charm.
As befitting a toad in the hole competition the holes are for the most part designed for toads to drop down in the hole - in the tradition of the game being called 'drops' in Sussex - or on the lead surface, in order to find the best player who can do that.
A 'World' Champion would need to be able to negotiate and overcome any challenges, including different leads and coins, sizes and heights of tables and in situ toad-house oche distances.
The St Mary's lead already constitutes the bucket-lead criterion from the list. The Monks Chair will have a new lead as the hole is too big and we have an alloy-lead already.
There are no league standardisations, nor house rules, as these vary and some are a bit silly or designed for novices.
If it's an old table, we believe the lead should have it's own characteristics from being played on over time, but the hole should not be impassable, and should have reasonable amount of maintenance and charm.
As befitting a toad in the hole competition the holes are for the most part designed for toads to drop down in the hole - in the tradition of the game being called 'drops' in Sussex - or on the lead surface, in order to find the best player who can do that.
A 'World' Champion would need to be able to negotiate and overcome any challenges, including different leads and coins, sizes and heights of tables and in situ toad-house oche distances.
''I've just watched the film ten times.''
FAQs
When is the draw? The night before at BN6 Tap in Hassocks, so that's Friday 3rd October. Home of the current World Teams Champions, we expect at least 20 regulars at the Taproom as well as curious WTSC25 players. Plus it's also James' Porter's 30th so come along and buy him a beer or as an alternative gift: destroy him at toads. Warning: it's his home table. The pic above is clickable.
I didn't get in, what do I do? Just keep an eye out for WTSC25 updates on the Game of Toads group on Facebook and in the WTSC Waiting List WhatsApp group. We expect a ten per cent drop-off of players come nearer the time. There are no guarantees and no refunds I'm afraid, the latter being due to website and admin remuneration for work and planning.
'I don't want to waste a tenner because I don't think I'll get past the first round'. Is that a winning attitude? Yep, it's the same for everyone. But it is best of 5. Straight knockout is the most fair and certain system we have so far. We'd need a bigger venue for group stages or a Swiss style tournament etc where there would be more participants. There is a First Round Club, of which I belong.
Personally I haven't made it past Round One yet myself so I've invested thirty quid - yes I did pay - but it was an amazing time even though I was understandably sometimes under pressure to deliver - being the host and main organiser. We're remunerating for the admin, planning, hire, the sense of occasion and being with toad mates from 3pm to late in a lovely long bar with reduced prices - as well as entry to the competition. With the 8 different toads tables the warm up hour is also a busy version of toad heaven.
'It's all a bit serious for me.' You'll find you'll be with inclusive, like-minded people who understand the game is a mix of the absurd with a paradoxical, almost pathological desire to win. Is there such thing as a toads player who doesn't want to do well?
Why have you chosen Table 'X' when you know it's difficult for me? A common gripe we get is from those who want a set of tables to help guarantee them a win. Nobody can agree on all the tables as all players have different preferences and styles. How can it possibly be personal when there are sixty-four players? Plus there are seven other tables in the draw. Plus you get four-five weeks out to practise on them. So when you whinge, you look silly.
I would argue our so-called 'worst' table is actually the most difficult one, for most players. The actual 'condition' of it is as good if not better than some other tournament tables. What some people get wrong when they whinge is that they are talking about the way it plays in relation to their throw, so then their throw is wrong.
Surely a new lead doesn't mean its like a normal pub experience? The Black Horse in Lewes and many league pubs like the Caxton in Brighton replace their leads annually. You can't get more established than that. When it's changed people also whinge about it, but toads players whinge when the tables don't suit their game. A new lead is a level playing surface for everyone and by the time we've had Warm Up Hour, the leads will be embedded.
But you can't be fair about tables can you? What we can do is optimise the parity, so we offer up practise time in situ of the original venue a month before the event - does any other tournament do this? - plus we offer a pre-tournament warm-up hour, plus you can have an agreed 5 to ten-minute warm-up before your match. To then whinge you don't have a chance or that we have somehow fixed it against you is cringeworthy and only shows you're either gaming us or insecure. Complainers are definitely not pretending, as they later like to claim.
What's your criteria for tables? The criteria are outlined above in the tables section in detail, but bear in mind, we also visit pubs a number of times before deciding on tables. For example, we went to three different pubs twice and the deciding venue three times before inviting the owners to lend out the one table that ticked all our boxes, so it's not as straightforward as you think. Some owners also say no. Plus, and this important, many key tables are unavailable due to being league 'match leads' that are locked away, so either won't be lent out or allowed to be played in public.
'I don't want to waste a tenner because I don't think I'll get past the first round'. Is that a winning attitude? Yep, it's the same for everyone. But it is best of 5. Straight knockout is the most fair and certain system we have so far. We'd need a bigger venue for group stages or a Swiss style tournament etc where there would be more participants. There is a First Round Club, of which I belong.
Personally I haven't made it past Round One yet myself so I've invested thirty quid - yes I did pay - but it was an amazing time even though I was understandably sometimes under pressure to deliver - being the host and main organiser. We're remunerating for the admin, planning, hire, the sense of occasion and being with toad mates from 3pm to late in a lovely long bar with reduced prices - as well as entry to the competition. With the 8 different toads tables the warm up hour is also a busy version of toad heaven.
'It's all a bit serious for me.' You'll find you'll be with inclusive, like-minded people who understand the game is a mix of the absurd with a paradoxical, almost pathological desire to win. Is there such thing as a toads player who doesn't want to do well?
Why have you chosen Table 'X' when you know it's difficult for me? A common gripe we get is from those who want a set of tables to help guarantee them a win. Nobody can agree on all the tables as all players have different preferences and styles. How can it possibly be personal when there are sixty-four players? Plus there are seven other tables in the draw. Plus you get four-five weeks out to practise on them. So when you whinge, you look silly.
I would argue our so-called 'worst' table is actually the most difficult one, for most players. The actual 'condition' of it is as good if not better than some other tournament tables. What some people get wrong when they whinge is that they are talking about the way it plays in relation to their throw, so then their throw is wrong.
Surely a new lead doesn't mean its like a normal pub experience? The Black Horse in Lewes and many league pubs like the Caxton in Brighton replace their leads annually. You can't get more established than that. When it's changed people also whinge about it, but toads players whinge when the tables don't suit their game. A new lead is a level playing surface for everyone and by the time we've had Warm Up Hour, the leads will be embedded.
But you can't be fair about tables can you? What we can do is optimise the parity, so we offer up practise time in situ of the original venue a month before the event - does any other tournament do this? - plus we offer a pre-tournament warm-up hour, plus you can have an agreed 5 to ten-minute warm-up before your match. To then whinge you don't have a chance or that we have somehow fixed it against you is cringeworthy and only shows you're either gaming us or insecure. Complainers are definitely not pretending, as they later like to claim.
What's your criteria for tables? The criteria are outlined above in the tables section in detail, but bear in mind, we also visit pubs a number of times before deciding on tables. For example, we went to three different pubs twice and the deciding venue three times before inviting the owners to lend out the one table that ticked all our boxes, so it's not as straightforward as you think. Some owners also say no. Plus, and this important, many key tables are unavailable due to being league 'match leads' that are locked away, so either won't be lent out or allowed to be played in public.
Are you doing well-designed quality t-shirts? Funny you should ask that, yes.
House of Toads
T-shirts and
Sports Tops
AVAILABLE NOW
T-shirts and
Sports Tops
AVAILABLE NOW
The exclusive Sussex-style toads triangle array with the WTSC logo in forties-Helvetica designed by Jonny Wills
For more info and ranges go to the
House of Toads page
For more info and ranges go to the
House of Toads page
©Copyright 2022-25
''Actually, my favourite Toads tournament.''
Join the Facebook group
Game of Toads for updates.
Game of Toads for updates.
©Copyright 2022-25
WTSC2025
Specifics
Specifics
VENUE
@ St Marys Supporters Club, Lewes
- no admittance before 3pm -
- no admittance before 3pm -
3pm
SIGN-IN and WARM-UP
No spectators are permitted till 7.30pm. Entrance £5
4pm approx.
The famous
WTSC ORIENTATION FILM
Q and A
+
Super-tense
TABLE DRAW for ROUND of 64
Be available for the Table Draw
for each round or miss out
Randomized Round of 32
... then Straight Knockout
Please refrain from parking in St Marys car park as we need room for the helpers and the food truck to manoeuvre. There will be plenty of weekend car spaces and car parks around in Lewes.
SIGN-IN and WARM-UP
No spectators are permitted till 7.30pm. Entrance £5
4pm approx.
The famous
WTSC ORIENTATION FILM
Q and A
+
Super-tense
TABLE DRAW for ROUND of 64
Be available for the Table Draw
for each round or miss out
Randomized Round of 32
... then Straight Knockout
Please refrain from parking in St Marys car park as we need room for the helpers and the food truck to manoeuvre. There will be plenty of weekend car spaces and car parks around in Lewes.
''Genius film. What a great night. You really put the work in. Superb organisation.''
Seeding, Draw and Semis
No Seeding
As an experiment for 2025 there will be no seeding, so this gives us a chance to experience what that looks and feels like. New players may feel they will benefit from this but now they won't be able to tell who the good players are to prepare for 😂
Secret Seeding
Renowned toadsplainer Benton Wieldy will do a sealed secret seeding list which no one will see till after, just to see if the stats and form are replicated and help make a decision for the following year. For seeding details check Benton Wieldy's WTSC rules page.
The Draw
The WTSC25 Draw will take place the night before at the BN6 Tap in Hassocks, from 8pm, and we welcome witnesses. As usual it will be a completely fair and random draw replete with a snazzy tombola and balls. I will take a pic of the fixtures and send them via WhatsApp on the morning of the tournament. This means we can go straight knockout and save an hour chasing people and dropping our bingo balls 😂 Sign in is at 3pm and is the same for everyone. And please don't worry about the tension and drama, we'll still have the Table Draws for each round and the Randomizer x8 for the final 32. Once randomised the names in the knockout will be left as is.
The Semi-Finals
... will be played at the same time like 2023. It worked really well then. This means spectators can watch the action of both matches simultaneously and we can save even more time.
As an experiment for 2025 there will be no seeding, so this gives us a chance to experience what that looks and feels like. New players may feel they will benefit from this but now they won't be able to tell who the good players are to prepare for 😂
Secret Seeding
Renowned toadsplainer Benton Wieldy will do a sealed secret seeding list which no one will see till after, just to see if the stats and form are replicated and help make a decision for the following year. For seeding details check Benton Wieldy's WTSC rules page.
The Draw
The WTSC25 Draw will take place the night before at the BN6 Tap in Hassocks, from 8pm, and we welcome witnesses. As usual it will be a completely fair and random draw replete with a snazzy tombola and balls. I will take a pic of the fixtures and send them via WhatsApp on the morning of the tournament. This means we can go straight knockout and save an hour chasing people and dropping our bingo balls 😂 Sign in is at 3pm and is the same for everyone. And please don't worry about the tension and drama, we'll still have the Table Draws for each round and the Randomizer x8 for the final 32. Once randomised the names in the knockout will be left as is.
The Semi-Finals
... will be played at the same time like 2023. It worked really well then. This means spectators can watch the action of both matches simultaneously and we can save even more time.
''Brilliant.''
TRAVEL INFO
🚂Walk from Lewes train station
🚌Bus from Brighton (Lewes Prison stop) Regency Route 28/29
🚗On-street parking in Lewes or outside the club, Christie Road. Saturday parking usually free. Check on Parkopedia. Please refrain from parking in St Marys as we need room for the food truck to manoeuvre
🚌Bus from Brighton (Lewes Prison stop) Regency Route 28/29
🚗On-street parking in Lewes or outside the club, Christie Road. Saturday parking usually free. Check on Parkopedia. Please refrain from parking in St Marys as we need room for the food truck to manoeuvre
WTSC
Champions
Champions
2022 Ed Hill
2023 Richard Crossland
2024 Richard Crossland
2025 Richard Crossland
2023 Richard Crossland
2024 Richard Crossland
2025 Richard Crossland
''The smoking cage was funny. The atmosphere was brilliant. ''
FOOD AVAILABLE
Finest Neapolitan Pizzas
from 500 Degrees Sliced
from 500 Degrees Sliced
4pm until 8:30pm...
and later subject to demand
and later subject to demand
|
|
£10 for 10''
Cash and Card
Cash and Card
''The pizzas were fantastic.''
In a collaboration with 500 Degrees Sliced there will be a trailer providing pizzas bespoke for the WTSC.
Authentic Ten-inch Neapolitan Pizzas for a tenner each with vegan options in the flavours you see on their website.
Authentic Ten-inch Neapolitan Pizzas for a tenner each with vegan options in the flavours you see on their website.
WTSC NOW IN OUR
4TH YEAR
4TH YEAR
THIS IS NOT THE
'WORLD' TEAMS EVENT
CONTACT THE CSBS IN LEWES TO SIGN UP TO THEIR EVENT IN SPRING. THANK YOU
'WORLD' TEAMS EVENT
CONTACT THE CSBS IN LEWES TO SIGN UP TO THEIR EVENT IN SPRING. THANK YOU
''Thank you very much for organising, as always''
WTSC MUSIC PLAYLIST
Here is the bespoke WTSC music playlist for this year. If you have any suggestions please send me your requests, but there is over 300 songs here. Best on shuffle.
''Why are you asking me?
You knew it was good.''
You knew it was good.''
EVENT DETAILS
and FAQs
and FAQs
Where?
St Marys Supporters Club
Christie Rd, Lewes BN7 1PL
When?
Saturday 4th October, 2025
Time
3pm
There will be an hour for warm up at doors open, and time to warm up before matches. There are no warm ups between rounds. Do not arrive before doors open, even if you are bringing tables. This year they will be collected if this is an issue.
St Marys Supporters Club
Christie Rd, Lewes BN7 1PL
When?
Saturday 4th October, 2025
Time
3pm
There will be an hour for warm up at doors open, and time to warm up before matches. There are no warm ups between rounds. Do not arrive before doors open, even if you are bringing tables. This year they will be collected if this is an issue.
Can I get on the waiting list? Of course. To join the new Waiting List please email us through the DropBox page. Or if you know Jonny, (the main organiser) contact him direct via WhatsApp, in person or through the socials. Or you can try via Game of Toads on Facebook with an invite request. Please send us your number for WhatsApp and email address.
What's the likelihood of people dropping out? Ten per cent, so about five to seven spots. Stay tuned to this site and the Game of Toads Facebook group and we will alert you. We can't stop those with unwanted spots passing them on though.
But you told me...
All the info is here.
What's the likelihood of people dropping out? Ten per cent, so about five to seven spots. Stay tuned to this site and the Game of Toads Facebook group and we will alert you. We can't stop those with unwanted spots passing them on though.
But you told me...
All the info is here.
Why is the format straight knockout?
The tournament is not a pub or taproom event designed to keep people drinking, despite the fact we enjoy those competitions very much as well. The WTSC however is a serious competition to find out who the best player is. It's based on the skill of being able to land and hole on a toads table.
We've gone for straight knockout as this is how most 'pro' tournaments are structured and the fact there's no debate about winning and losing. We make the matches best of five instead of three, so there is better chance to make a match of it.
Will you be on hand during the tournament? Not this year no. All the answers are here and the tables are self-governing, so between three of you, the scorer and players, you should be able to come to a decision in case of a rare issue. Players tend to err on the side of the scorer's decision. If you have questions ask them at the beginning or during the draws.
Are spectators welcome? Only if they understand it's a tournament and not to get drunk and step all over the oches or mess about in line of player sight. Club members need to know we have paid to hire the room for the day and invested in everything else so to please respect the games in progress.
Can Club members enter the WTSC?
Of course. Like any other player they need to send us their details and they can get on the Waiting List.
Do people who provide tables have an advantage? Not really. There's a one in eight probability they will end up on their 'home' table in the first round and by probabilities a 52% chance of playing it en route: if they reach the final. This can be applied to any specific individual table. So the chance you play on a home or bogey table once or twice altogether is about 1 in 2, again only on the way to the final. The chances of playing 6 different ones for a finalist is 7%.
For table-owners or regulars who use that table or have won tournaments on them, there's also the added pressure of the expectation they will be good. Three of the tables at the WCST2025 will have new leads so this changes the game too.
For people providing tables, coins should be ready on pick up or delivery.
All player have a heads up about the tables and lengths so can prepare accordingly.
The tournament is not a pub or taproom event designed to keep people drinking, despite the fact we enjoy those competitions very much as well. The WTSC however is a serious competition to find out who the best player is. It's based on the skill of being able to land and hole on a toads table.
We've gone for straight knockout as this is how most 'pro' tournaments are structured and the fact there's no debate about winning and losing. We make the matches best of five instead of three, so there is better chance to make a match of it.
Will you be on hand during the tournament? Not this year no. All the answers are here and the tables are self-governing, so between three of you, the scorer and players, you should be able to come to a decision in case of a rare issue. Players tend to err on the side of the scorer's decision. If you have questions ask them at the beginning or during the draws.
Are spectators welcome? Only if they understand it's a tournament and not to get drunk and step all over the oches or mess about in line of player sight. Club members need to know we have paid to hire the room for the day and invested in everything else so to please respect the games in progress.
Can Club members enter the WTSC?
Of course. Like any other player they need to send us their details and they can get on the Waiting List.
Do people who provide tables have an advantage? Not really. There's a one in eight probability they will end up on their 'home' table in the first round and by probabilities a 52% chance of playing it en route: if they reach the final. This can be applied to any specific individual table. So the chance you play on a home or bogey table once or twice altogether is about 1 in 2, again only on the way to the final. The chances of playing 6 different ones for a finalist is 7%.
For table-owners or regulars who use that table or have won tournaments on them, there's also the added pressure of the expectation they will be good. Three of the tables at the WCST2025 will have new leads so this changes the game too.
For people providing tables, coins should be ready on pick up or delivery.
All player have a heads up about the tables and lengths so can prepare accordingly.
What's the history of the WTSC?
The WTSC - World Toads Singles Championship - is now in it's fourth year.
In 2022 sixteen of the best Toads players came together to compete rallied round by organisers Jonny Wills and host Gemma John. In 2023 that number doubled to 32 and in 2024 that number doubled as well. This year there will again be sixty-four players, making it the largest singles tournament in the known history of the game.
The WTSC is held at St Marys Supporters Club in Lewes, a private members venue renowned for it's sport and games-playing history and it's famously long bar counter.
What are the WTSC's intentions and how does it distinguish itself? The tournament seeks to make itself a beacon for fair play and non-competitive edging and uses eight different Toads tables to represent the idiosyncrasies inherent in the game. As well as the general rules of Toad-in-the-Hole it has it's own WTSC Rules and Guidelines including self-governing oches where other players are invited to score or be the 'Toadrunner'.
The WTSC is aware the game is both multi-levelled and absurd and welcomes serious competitors finding their Toads home among friends. To this end the event itself celebrates the game with humour, a bespoke orientation film and soundtrack, keen organisation and solid structure for serious competition.
Players meet with other enthusiasts in the community in an atmosphere geared towards fellowship and fair play and tend to have a brilliant day regardless of how far they progress in the tournament. This year the tournament brings together all the communities of Toads, including Brighton, Lewes, Lincoln and London; East, West and Mid-Sussex, plus players for the first time from Germany.
The WTSC - World Toads Singles Championship - is now in it's fourth year.
In 2022 sixteen of the best Toads players came together to compete rallied round by organisers Jonny Wills and host Gemma John. In 2023 that number doubled to 32 and in 2024 that number doubled as well. This year there will again be sixty-four players, making it the largest singles tournament in the known history of the game.
The WTSC is held at St Marys Supporters Club in Lewes, a private members venue renowned for it's sport and games-playing history and it's famously long bar counter.
What are the WTSC's intentions and how does it distinguish itself? The tournament seeks to make itself a beacon for fair play and non-competitive edging and uses eight different Toads tables to represent the idiosyncrasies inherent in the game. As well as the general rules of Toad-in-the-Hole it has it's own WTSC Rules and Guidelines including self-governing oches where other players are invited to score or be the 'Toadrunner'.
The WTSC is aware the game is both multi-levelled and absurd and welcomes serious competitors finding their Toads home among friends. To this end the event itself celebrates the game with humour, a bespoke orientation film and soundtrack, keen organisation and solid structure for serious competition.
Players meet with other enthusiasts in the community in an atmosphere geared towards fellowship and fair play and tend to have a brilliant day regardless of how far they progress in the tournament. This year the tournament brings together all the communities of Toads, including Brighton, Lewes, Lincoln and London; East, West and Mid-Sussex, plus players for the first time from Germany.
Do players really need to be there at 3pm? Yes, for the Sign in, Warm up Hour, WTSC Orientation Film, Q and A and first Table Draw. There are no warm ups between rounds. Once we have done the first Table Draw players can come and go, but run the risk of missing and forfeiting their match if late. We obviously can't organise the tournament around one player's schedule. Being there means you get a leads up on the tables, and your value from the day.
Will there be filming again this year?
If there is they will be instinctively discreet and still. They are professional and friendly people with a genuine interest in the game. Please feel free to talk to them and share your stories, if they attend.
Do you blacklist anyone? No, we invite people to behave well. If they can't we deal with that discreetly, fairly and as soon as possible. We're not a secret closed doors society and are open to challenges and feedback. At the same time we know when people are taking the mickey and will confront them head on. There is a big difference between agreeing to disagree and being out of order. It's all about behaviour.
How do you deal with unruly behaviour then? At the tournament yobbish individuals are invited outside to discuss the situation. Its in the rules under No Yobbery. This obviously extends to outside the tournament if someone is taking beefs too far between us or other players. We will ask for an explanation, apology or both and if none is forthcoming we can't afford to facilitate their appearance. The tournament can't condone or be complicit in toxic behaviour or facilitate the inhibiting of anyone else's enjoyment or safety because of a socially reckless individual.
Why aren't there more women in the tournament? There have been six female players involved in the WTSC. When people blame men for the lack of female entries that is just sexist. All players just need to practise more if they want to compete in the top hop flight.
Perhaps boys are predisposed to chase games and sport techniques more like they did at school, but that is a societal issue and we believe that is changing right now. As far as Toads is concerned it's already inclusive, and there is seldom judgement or resentment, where the better players practise a lot and enter competitions and leagues which are open to all genders and persuasions. All the best women players are highly regarded, loved and respected.
What do you win? Along with the honour of being crowned "World Champion", you'll receive the gold-leafed Toadstone Trophy aka Mr 'Bufo' Toad to guard over for a year, picture left. It weighs just about a kilogram less than the football world cup.
Layered with bufonite and gold leaf the oak-disc base represents the four coins used in Toad-in-the-Hole. You'll get your name on the trophy engraved on a special tag placed on the oak coin stack that Bufo sits on.
Legend has it his bufonite-layered centre will protect you from poison (!) 😂 Above Bufo is pictured on his visit to the trophy and engraving shop in Hangleton, where upon its arrival, the owner said: "I was not expecting that!'
We have some sponsorship things in the pipeline, it just takes a bit of negotiation and organising.
Will there be filming again this year?
If there is they will be instinctively discreet and still. They are professional and friendly people with a genuine interest in the game. Please feel free to talk to them and share your stories, if they attend.
Do you blacklist anyone? No, we invite people to behave well. If they can't we deal with that discreetly, fairly and as soon as possible. We're not a secret closed doors society and are open to challenges and feedback. At the same time we know when people are taking the mickey and will confront them head on. There is a big difference between agreeing to disagree and being out of order. It's all about behaviour.
How do you deal with unruly behaviour then? At the tournament yobbish individuals are invited outside to discuss the situation. Its in the rules under No Yobbery. This obviously extends to outside the tournament if someone is taking beefs too far between us or other players. We will ask for an explanation, apology or both and if none is forthcoming we can't afford to facilitate their appearance. The tournament can't condone or be complicit in toxic behaviour or facilitate the inhibiting of anyone else's enjoyment or safety because of a socially reckless individual.
Why aren't there more women in the tournament? There have been six female players involved in the WTSC. When people blame men for the lack of female entries that is just sexist. All players just need to practise more if they want to compete in the top hop flight.
Perhaps boys are predisposed to chase games and sport techniques more like they did at school, but that is a societal issue and we believe that is changing right now. As far as Toads is concerned it's already inclusive, and there is seldom judgement or resentment, where the better players practise a lot and enter competitions and leagues which are open to all genders and persuasions. All the best women players are highly regarded, loved and respected.
What do you win? Along with the honour of being crowned "World Champion", you'll receive the gold-leafed Toadstone Trophy aka Mr 'Bufo' Toad to guard over for a year, picture left. It weighs just about a kilogram less than the football world cup.
Layered with bufonite and gold leaf the oak-disc base represents the four coins used in Toad-in-the-Hole. You'll get your name on the trophy engraved on a special tag placed on the oak coin stack that Bufo sits on.
Legend has it his bufonite-layered centre will protect you from poison (!) 😂 Above Bufo is pictured on his visit to the trophy and engraving shop in Hangleton, where upon its arrival, the owner said: "I was not expecting that!'
We have some sponsorship things in the pipeline, it just takes a bit of negotiation and organising.
Do you really have to plan the event?
Yes, and the help we have received through our friends at St Marys in making the event a success has been outstanding and we are very grateful. Obviously we have paid money to hire the main room of the venue, so we assume that everyone wants us there and for all to have a good time.
Prior to the event, we submit a plan that is ratified by the club committee and organise the room accordingly. As it is an important event for the Toads community and Sussex, now gaining a niche amount of national and international traction, we hope members will understand the room will be a little different to other days and refrain from playing on the toads tables - as they don't belong to us - when the event is in progress.
If any members still have a problem please contact organiser and St Marys club member Jonny Wills directly and he will gladly answer your questions, or he will come and find you and address the matter in person. We have instructed our welcome hosts to invite everyone to remember to sign in: players, members and spectators, to insure accountability and a cordial atmosphere, so that we know everyone is there to make the day a nice one for all.
How can I guarantee entry if a space comes up? By paying to confirm you're coming when asked to do so. Please bear in mind this is a standalone private club event not a pub or league one
Yes, and the help we have received through our friends at St Marys in making the event a success has been outstanding and we are very grateful. Obviously we have paid money to hire the main room of the venue, so we assume that everyone wants us there and for all to have a good time.
Prior to the event, we submit a plan that is ratified by the club committee and organise the room accordingly. As it is an important event for the Toads community and Sussex, now gaining a niche amount of national and international traction, we hope members will understand the room will be a little different to other days and refrain from playing on the toads tables - as they don't belong to us - when the event is in progress.
If any members still have a problem please contact organiser and St Marys club member Jonny Wills directly and he will gladly answer your questions, or he will come and find you and address the matter in person. We have instructed our welcome hosts to invite everyone to remember to sign in: players, members and spectators, to insure accountability and a cordial atmosphere, so that we know everyone is there to make the day a nice one for all.
How can I guarantee entry if a space comes up? By paying to confirm you're coming when asked to do so. Please bear in mind this is a standalone private club event not a pub or league one
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Remember: There Can Be Only One!
Are all abilities welcome? Yes. Toads is an inclusive and levelling game. We will spread out the levels and draw out of a hat to balance things out and give everyone a fair crack. The standard though is generally very high. The tables are diverse, but of course there many variables with how players enjoy the game, and the best the WTSC can do is facilitate eight different tables to reflect that. The tournament is not just for the best players, it's for all competitors. The hop flight players already get their due as seeds.
How do you do the draw?
Out in the open. No secret Illuminatoads Societies here. This stops doubts that the event is being fiddled in some way, or to the advantage of those running it. Well it's just me and my sister, so.... eh-hum. The plan for the draws is above under the heading: FORMAT
Do you take toads seriously or is it just fun? Be aware this is a serious yet friendly event and draws the connoisseurs and competition-orientated players of the game. Everyone wants to win - even the bitter pub newbies that rig events so anyone, or they in particular can win - as you can see that on their faces when they do. And we all already know it's an absurd, beguiling game, so at this level the absurdity of Toads is even more refined!
Don't be put off though, because you couldn't meet a profoundly cooler bunch of people. It's just that the WTSC ethos is based on practised skill.
How do you do the draw?
Out in the open. No secret Illuminatoads Societies here. This stops doubts that the event is being fiddled in some way, or to the advantage of those running it. Well it's just me and my sister, so.... eh-hum. The plan for the draws is above under the heading: FORMAT
Do you take toads seriously or is it just fun? Be aware this is a serious yet friendly event and draws the connoisseurs and competition-orientated players of the game. Everyone wants to win - even the bitter pub newbies that rig events so anyone, or they in particular can win - as you can see that on their faces when they do. And we all already know it's an absurd, beguiling game, so at this level the absurdity of Toads is even more refined!
Don't be put off though, because you couldn't meet a profoundly cooler bunch of people. It's just that the WTSC ethos is based on practised skill.
What happens if I'm late?
Matches will carry on regardless of a no-show or if you are late. Please don't wander off if you have an imminent match. Just listen out for when the music goes off and announcements are happening. BTW: There are no refunds, as we blew the budget long ago. Examples are: doing at admin at midnight for players paying after the pub, talking in venues to explain everything, social media posting etc. The list is as endless as you want to make it.
Matches will carry on regardless of a no-show or if you are late. Please don't wander off if you have an imminent match. Just listen out for when the music goes off and announcements are happening. BTW: There are no refunds, as we blew the budget long ago. Examples are: doing at admin at midnight for players paying after the pub, talking in venues to explain everything, social media posting etc. The list is as endless as you want to make it.
What's the difference between the 'Lewes Worlds' in April and the WTSC 2023 in October? Yes, we have been asked this question 😂 Ours is a singles event designed to find the best player and 'World Champion' across 8 different tables, principally how the game is normally played – one on one – when you walk into different venues. The oche lengths respect the original venues.
The WTSC is held at a private members club and from a competition point of view separates out the home-table champions to see who has really got game. For some it works like a New Year celebration for the new season.
The Lewes Worlds in April is like a brilliant 'Toads Christmas' end of season event at Lewes Corn Exchange with approximately 200 in attendance. The matches are for teams of four – like a last round league match – on eight near-identical sheet-lead tables, so strategically, it's a different approach. The ethos is to let the tables stay the way they are without maintenance where the holes close up: which means toads get stuck in the hole more and the games are more often than not, low-scoring.
The WTSC looks to limit happenstance and keep the holes as open as possible to measure players' skill at landing AND holing, making it a tournament for dedicated players, and less so, casual ones. As there are eight different tables, the holes vary in size and offer unique scoring possibilities and puzzles for players anyway.
The WTSC is held at a private members club and from a competition point of view separates out the home-table champions to see who has really got game. For some it works like a New Year celebration for the new season.
The Lewes Worlds in April is like a brilliant 'Toads Christmas' end of season event at Lewes Corn Exchange with approximately 200 in attendance. The matches are for teams of four – like a last round league match – on eight near-identical sheet-lead tables, so strategically, it's a different approach. The ethos is to let the tables stay the way they are without maintenance where the holes close up: which means toads get stuck in the hole more and the games are more often than not, low-scoring.
The WTSC looks to limit happenstance and keep the holes as open as possible to measure players' skill at landing AND holing, making it a tournament for dedicated players, and less so, casual ones. As there are eight different tables, the holes vary in size and offer unique scoring possibilities and puzzles for players anyway.
Where does my entry fee go, I usually don't have to pay for toads etc?
We've hired a private club and spend the year organising the tournament. A normal pub or taproom puts on events to make a great day and sell beer and food. They are designed to keep you there, so they are mostly free. Or of course, maybe your admin fees for other events are paid for by someone else?
The WTSC is a standalone private event to facilitate toads-playing connoisseurs to enjoy their beloved game of 'drops' in an optimum environment without distraction or yobbery.
The ongoing work I do as WTSC Organiser throughout the year equates to admin, emails, SMSs, FB messages, WhatsApp messages, social media, promotion, marketing, artwork, website hosting, networking, data curation, liaising with facilitators, discussing seeding with experienced players, and fielding questions from potential participants - every time I go out😂.
There is always something to update every week. Plus, in the build up, the tournament has expenses for preparation, transport, event set-up and set-down, and of course the making of player framework and infamous orientation film. Still, Benton Wieldy, Jim Rosentode and Sean Connery have all kindly waived their fees.
All of the above is done as a passion hobby and there is no profit, as you can calculate by adding up the hours from all the activities. Please don't be flippant and start rumours, just imagine if you want to bother doing it. And no, I didn't nick this idea off anyone. Ideas for events are in the air, so why not organise something yourself?
All in all, the entry fee total comes to three days full-time freelance work at my usual rate before tax, and the actual work I put in is from three weeks up to a month full-time. And I do all this in my spare time after work.
This year we are looking for sponsors and ways to grow the WTSC.
We've hired a private club and spend the year organising the tournament. A normal pub or taproom puts on events to make a great day and sell beer and food. They are designed to keep you there, so they are mostly free. Or of course, maybe your admin fees for other events are paid for by someone else?
The WTSC is a standalone private event to facilitate toads-playing connoisseurs to enjoy their beloved game of 'drops' in an optimum environment without distraction or yobbery.
The ongoing work I do as WTSC Organiser throughout the year equates to admin, emails, SMSs, FB messages, WhatsApp messages, social media, promotion, marketing, artwork, website hosting, networking, data curation, liaising with facilitators, discussing seeding with experienced players, and fielding questions from potential participants - every time I go out😂.
There is always something to update every week. Plus, in the build up, the tournament has expenses for preparation, transport, event set-up and set-down, and of course the making of player framework and infamous orientation film. Still, Benton Wieldy, Jim Rosentode and Sean Connery have all kindly waived their fees.
All of the above is done as a passion hobby and there is no profit, as you can calculate by adding up the hours from all the activities. Please don't be flippant and start rumours, just imagine if you want to bother doing it. And no, I didn't nick this idea off anyone. Ideas for events are in the air, so why not organise something yourself?
All in all, the entry fee total comes to three days full-time freelance work at my usual rate before tax, and the actual work I put in is from three weeks up to a month full-time. And I do all this in my spare time after work.
This year we are looking for sponsors and ways to grow the WTSC.
Does the WTSC Toadstone say 2023 or 2025? The trophy says 2023 in a traditional engraving font. The misreading and subsequent rumour may have been caused by light conditions, age-related eyesight, inebriation, the lateness of the hour, sledgey-banter: or all five.
Will the Toadstone Trophy be given permanently after three wins? God, no. There is room on the four oak discs for a roster of names throughout the years, increasing it's value to the community.
What happens if the holes won't let toads go down? Is our end game to play with closed holes? The WTSC believes this is a developed quality too far and we have an in-house hole maker in the event toads keeping getting more stuck than not. Toads will occasionally get stuck, and this makes for a more strategic game. But there comes a point when players who know they are in form and holing toads regularly have their skill compromised for the sake of the faux notion of authenticity. There's a line between interesting developed qualities of a lead and a shit table. In our collective WTSC opinion, leaving the hole to close is developed quality too far. The game is not called Toad-Stuck-in-the-Hole or even Toad-on-the-Lead.
Will the Toadstone Trophy be given permanently after three wins? God, no. There is room on the four oak discs for a roster of names throughout the years, increasing it's value to the community.
What happens if the holes won't let toads go down? Is our end game to play with closed holes? The WTSC believes this is a developed quality too far and we have an in-house hole maker in the event toads keeping getting more stuck than not. Toads will occasionally get stuck, and this makes for a more strategic game. But there comes a point when players who know they are in form and holing toads regularly have their skill compromised for the sake of the faux notion of authenticity. There's a line between interesting developed qualities of a lead and a shit table. In our collective WTSC opinion, leaving the hole to close is developed quality too far. The game is not called Toad-Stuck-in-the-Hole or even Toad-on-the-Lead.
Does the organiser have an advantage?
It's notoriously difficult to win your own tournament and with all the info here you can see we - myself, helpers, tournament advisors - have gone to great lengths for parity and honour.
It's all a bit cliquey and about you though isn't it? No. I personally go to great lengths to invest in parity for all while facilitating the 'as is' quality of idiosyncratically different tables, oche lengths and toads coins. Most of my jokes are about the nature of ego, not from a place of ego. It's an inclusive event and everyone is welcome to take part. If the lists get bigger we will find a way to take it to those numbers.
Before edging towards a personal preference we - from consultation - consider the big picture implications for the tournament and the repercussions in the small and focused toads community. You could say I have a bias towards the game's underwhelming/overwhelming paradox and want to honour both the absurd and nail-biting aspects of the sport.
It's notoriously difficult to win your own tournament and with all the info here you can see we - myself, helpers, tournament advisors - have gone to great lengths for parity and honour.
It's all a bit cliquey and about you though isn't it? No. I personally go to great lengths to invest in parity for all while facilitating the 'as is' quality of idiosyncratically different tables, oche lengths and toads coins. Most of my jokes are about the nature of ego, not from a place of ego. It's an inclusive event and everyone is welcome to take part. If the lists get bigger we will find a way to take it to those numbers.
Before edging towards a personal preference we - from consultation - consider the big picture implications for the tournament and the repercussions in the small and focused toads community. You could say I have a bias towards the game's underwhelming/overwhelming paradox and want to honour both the absurd and nail-biting aspects of the sport.
Are you mad or obsessed? I will answer this as it may have an indirect bearing on the vibe of the WTSC: Some will claim I'm mad, but we're all pretty mad - passionate or obsessed - playing this game. Some will claim I'm ultra competitive, but anyone who plays toads wants to win.
Some claim I analyse too much then two seconds later give me their improvement on my analysis. Those that bear grudges have ideas in their heads I am not party to, so I can only let haters hate, as Taylor Swift once sang. In the end, no one knows more about the game than Benton.
Some claim I analyse too much then two seconds later give me their improvement on my analysis. Those that bear grudges have ideas in their heads I am not party to, so I can only let haters hate, as Taylor Swift once sang. In the end, no one knows more about the game than Benton.