. The following are answers to
genuine questions asked via the Dropbox or direct in toadhouses.
genuine questions asked via the Dropbox or direct in toadhouses.
Where is it being held?
St Marys Supporters Club, Christie Rd, Lewes BN7 1PL.
When is it?
Saturday 3rd October, 2026
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. Please do not arrive needing the toilet as we can't let people in until 3pm.
St Marys Supporters Club, Christie Rd, Lewes BN7 1PL.
When is it?
Saturday 3rd October, 2026
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. Please do not arrive needing the toilet as we can't let people in until 3pm.
ENTRIES
Why the deadline for entries? Last year's players are availed guaranteed spots up to the middle of May. After that we offer spaces that aren't taken up to the Waiting List of 30+ players as well. This means that between all the players - recorded on the home page that are in the WhatsApp groups as well - it's then first come first serve. At the end of May anyone else can enter by sending us a request via the DropBox. We do this because people ask about it all the time., so it's only fair to give everyone a chance to take part, starting respectfully with the previous players.
Why the deadline for entries? Last year's players are availed guaranteed spots up to the middle of May. After that we offer spaces that aren't taken up to the Waiting List of 30+ players as well. This means that between all the players - recorded on the home page that are in the WhatsApp groups as well - it's then first come first serve. At the end of May anyone else can enter by sending us a request via the DropBox. We do this because people ask about it all the time., so it's only fair to give everyone a chance to take part, starting respectfully with the previous players.
Why big push for entries? Why so early? Why can't you just leave it? We're doing the same process as last year - which worked. Some players are super keen and like looking forward and some are more laid back about entry. The deadlines are also about securing the tournament going ahead, as some say they will enter and then don't. From the tournament perspective we have committed to booking the venue and have to organise thngs in advance.
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.
SPECTATORS
Can I bring spectators? We have limited space due to fire regs. We are looking to allocate paid/recorded slots nearer the time so watch this space. What we provisionally ask is that specators come in the evening when the club officially opens for members at 7.30pm. Our focus is obviously the player experience.
Can club members come in? We have hired the venue for the tournament and the club is offcially open from 7.30pm. We therefore request that's when club members arrive.
How can spectators watch? Those watching need to be respectful to the players in a match and stand behind players if possible. Moving about can put players off their game and we request that spectators are aware of the oche and not being in the line of sight of matches.
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.
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.
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.
SPECTATORS
Can I bring spectators? We have limited space due to fire regs. We are looking to allocate paid/recorded slots nearer the time so watch this space. What we provisionally ask is that specators come in the evening when the club officially opens for members at 7.30pm. Our focus is obviously the player experience.
Can club members come in? We have hired the venue for the tournament and the club is offcially open from 7.30pm. We therefore request that's when club members arrive.
How can spectators watch? Those watching need to be respectful to the players in a match and stand behind players if possible. Moving about can put players off their game and we request that spectators are aware of the oche and not being in the line of sight of matches.
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.
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.
PRE-TOURNAMENT DRAW
When is the draw? The night before the tournament. We draw the sixty-four players out of the WTSC Tombola for the Round of 64.
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 Guido and myself, so.... eh-hum. The plan for the table draws is above under the heading: FORMAT on the WTSC Rules page.
When is the draw? The night before the tournament. We draw the sixty-four players out of the WTSC Tombola for the Round of 64.
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 Guido and myself, so.... eh-hum. The plan for the table draws is above under the heading: FORMAT on the WTSC Rules page.
ENTRY ISSUES
I didn't get in, what do I do? Just keep an eye out for WTSC 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. Perhaps you can pass your ticket to someone else, and if you do can you let us know - we will need their number.
'I don't want to waste a twelve-fifty entry because I don't think I'll get past the first round'. Is that a winning attitude? 😂 It's the same for everyone of course. But it is best of 5. Straight knockout is the most fair and certain system we have so far. Toads is great leveller and you do have eight different tables.
But I'm worried I'll just get knocked out in Round One wasting my money? Yeah, we all are. There is a First Round Club, of which I have belonged to... twice. The value in the event is that we're costing for the admin, planning, hire, time, labour, petrol, expenses etc... while creating a sense of occasion and it being about socialising with like-minded toad chums from 3pm to late in a lovely long bar with reduced prices. With the 8 different toads tables the warm up hour alone is also a busy version of toad heaven.
COMPETITION
How about a bigger tournament?
The WTSC is already the biggest singles tournament in toads and perhaps the game has reached saturation point for events, we don't know. There is a sort of demand but you would have to coax and convince the other players to participate, and really they should want to automatically do it. We'd need a bigger venue for group stages or a Swiss style tournament etc where there would be more participants.
Do you take toads seriously or is it just fun? 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?
You'll find that a lot of these FAQs are internal questions of doubt related to the pathway to victory. It's interesting isn't it? That's why it's the greatest game in the world, everthing about it is a game.
Just 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; because you couldn't meet a profoundly cooler bunch of people. It's just that the WTSC ethos is based on practised skill.
TABLE QUESTIONS
How do you choose the tables?
The tables get selected on and over time and the criteria for that is under Table Selection Methodology in Detail on the WTSC Rules page. Tables get famous for their difficulty or talking points, there are also iconic or standout tables to think about. There are league ones and ones across all pubs that pose a different challenge. The WTSC decide on a range including - if we can - cast and sheet leads, a slider, a bucketlead, an alloy. We will endeavour to keep a fresh lead down to one. But some owners providing tables might replace the lead after four weeks of the table being practised on. That can't be helped and a new lead is the answer for a table everybody has just got to know.
When do you know what tables are being used? We usually announce and make the tables availabe for public access - ie no private tables unless placed in a venue - a month prior to event. This gives players four weeks to practise around September, on top of Warm Up Hour and a quick pre-match warm up on the day. The WTSC doesn't finalise their ideas until talking to the community, negotiating with owners who kindly trust us and lend them for a day, and assessing how much a table has changed in the six months of gearing up for the event. If we announced now, then players would practise them to pieces for five months.
Why have you chosen Table 'X' when you know it's difficult for me? Don't you get an advantage? A common gripe we get is from those who want a set of tables to help guarantee them a win. To be honest only two people complained in recent years, but we can chalk that up to being part of their playing style.
When we get a gripe we remember it to improve the next year and thank them for their feedback. 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. What actually happens on the day usually is that supposed bogey tables become levellers. The WTSC discovers that all the tables have at least one player who doesn't like it as much as the others.
The tables don't suit my game? 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 inappropriate if they want to land or hole.
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. Many change leads before the leagues start, especially match leads. Many tournaments have them changed or refurbed, flattened or refettled as well.
A new lead is a level playing surface for everyone and by the time we've had Warm Up Hour, any new leads should be embedded. enough.
Can you be fair about tables? 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, or joking to look good in front of mates, as they later like to claim.
Is that all there is involved in the decision-making for tables? Do you go to the pubs? We 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.
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. 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.
I didn't get in, what do I do? Just keep an eye out for WTSC 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. Perhaps you can pass your ticket to someone else, and if you do can you let us know - we will need their number.
'I don't want to waste a twelve-fifty entry because I don't think I'll get past the first round'. Is that a winning attitude? 😂 It's the same for everyone of course. But it is best of 5. Straight knockout is the most fair and certain system we have so far. Toads is great leveller and you do have eight different tables.
But I'm worried I'll just get knocked out in Round One wasting my money? Yeah, we all are. There is a First Round Club, of which I have belonged to... twice. The value in the event is that we're costing for the admin, planning, hire, time, labour, petrol, expenses etc... while creating a sense of occasion and it being about socialising with like-minded toad chums from 3pm to late in a lovely long bar with reduced prices. With the 8 different toads tables the warm up hour alone is also a busy version of toad heaven.
COMPETITION
How about a bigger tournament?
The WTSC is already the biggest singles tournament in toads and perhaps the game has reached saturation point for events, we don't know. There is a sort of demand but you would have to coax and convince the other players to participate, and really they should want to automatically do it. We'd need a bigger venue for group stages or a Swiss style tournament etc where there would be more participants.
Do you take toads seriously or is it just fun? 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?
You'll find that a lot of these FAQs are internal questions of doubt related to the pathway to victory. It's interesting isn't it? That's why it's the greatest game in the world, everthing about it is a game.
Just 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; because you couldn't meet a profoundly cooler bunch of people. It's just that the WTSC ethos is based on practised skill.
TABLE QUESTIONS
How do you choose the tables?
The tables get selected on and over time and the criteria for that is under Table Selection Methodology in Detail on the WTSC Rules page. Tables get famous for their difficulty or talking points, there are also iconic or standout tables to think about. There are league ones and ones across all pubs that pose a different challenge. The WTSC decide on a range including - if we can - cast and sheet leads, a slider, a bucketlead, an alloy. We will endeavour to keep a fresh lead down to one. But some owners providing tables might replace the lead after four weeks of the table being practised on. That can't be helped and a new lead is the answer for a table everybody has just got to know.
When do you know what tables are being used? We usually announce and make the tables availabe for public access - ie no private tables unless placed in a venue - a month prior to event. This gives players four weeks to practise around September, on top of Warm Up Hour and a quick pre-match warm up on the day. The WTSC doesn't finalise their ideas until talking to the community, negotiating with owners who kindly trust us and lend them for a day, and assessing how much a table has changed in the six months of gearing up for the event. If we announced now, then players would practise them to pieces for five months.
Why have you chosen Table 'X' when you know it's difficult for me? Don't you get an advantage? A common gripe we get is from those who want a set of tables to help guarantee them a win. To be honest only two people complained in recent years, but we can chalk that up to being part of their playing style.
When we get a gripe we remember it to improve the next year and thank them for their feedback. 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. What actually happens on the day usually is that supposed bogey tables become levellers. The WTSC discovers that all the tables have at least one player who doesn't like it as much as the others.
The tables don't suit my game? 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 inappropriate if they want to land or hole.
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. Many change leads before the leagues start, especially match leads. Many tournaments have them changed or refurbed, flattened or refettled as well.
A new lead is a level playing surface for everyone and by the time we've had Warm Up Hour, any new leads should be embedded. enough.
Can you be fair about tables? 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, or joking to look good in front of mates, as they later like to claim.
Is that all there is involved in the decision-making for tables? Do you go to the pubs? We 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.
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. 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.
TOURNAMENT DAY
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.
MAINTAINING GOOD ETIQUETTE
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.
Why is it so strict? It's not really, we just ask the minority players predisposed to anger not to be haters. A sixty-four player tournament can't afford to condone or be complicit in toxic behaviour or facilitate the inhibiting of anyone else's enjoyment or safety because of any socially reckless individuals or those with a grudge. If we are yet to receive an apology, explanation or request to enter the tournament from anyone who has been disproportionally out of order, there is nothing we can do. Since the WTSC began we have had a handful of resolved situations.
Do you make up the FAQ questions? No. In fact we've probably been asked many more. If you imagine many players chat and ask a few questions naturally and then some players collar us for a debate, you can then work out the amount of questions from just two instances. When someone asks or sends in something new we add it here. Yes, the answers do get fine-tuned, re-proofed and made clearer over time as we improve.
Are all the testimonials real? Yes. We don't name the author, but they know they said it, so they can't take it back now 😂
It's just toads though? Until it's not. The game as you know ranges from relaxed fun to intense competition.
FEMALE PLAYERS
Why aren't there more women in the tournament? There have been six female players involved in the WTSC. There two in the WTSC26. We do make a special point of inviting the best female players but unfortunately we don't have time to keep reminding people.
Perhaps boys/men are predisposed to games and sport techniques more like they did at school, but this is a societal issue which 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. And Tayla Evans scored her first 8 at the WTSC25🥳
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.
MAINTAINING GOOD ETIQUETTE
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.
Why is it so strict? It's not really, we just ask the minority players predisposed to anger not to be haters. A sixty-four player tournament can't afford to condone or be complicit in toxic behaviour or facilitate the inhibiting of anyone else's enjoyment or safety because of any socially reckless individuals or those with a grudge. If we are yet to receive an apology, explanation or request to enter the tournament from anyone who has been disproportionally out of order, there is nothing we can do. Since the WTSC began we have had a handful of resolved situations.
Do you make up the FAQ questions? No. In fact we've probably been asked many more. If you imagine many players chat and ask a few questions naturally and then some players collar us for a debate, you can then work out the amount of questions from just two instances. When someone asks or sends in something new we add it here. Yes, the answers do get fine-tuned, re-proofed and made clearer over time as we improve.
Are all the testimonials real? Yes. We don't name the author, but they know they said it, so they can't take it back now 😂
It's just toads though? Until it's not. The game as you know ranges from relaxed fun to intense competition.
FEMALE PLAYERS
Why aren't there more women in the tournament? There have been six female players involved in the WTSC. There two in the WTSC26. We do make a special point of inviting the best female players but unfortunately we don't have time to keep reminding people.
Perhaps boys/men are predisposed to games and sport techniques more like they did at school, but this is a societal issue which 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. And Tayla Evans scored her first 8 at the WTSC25🥳
PRIZES
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.
Did you make the trophy yourself? Bufo was sourced from a Mr Toad statue then layered with bufonite and gold leaf. The oak-discs base sourced separately 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!'
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.
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.
We have some sponsorship things in the pipeline, it just takes a bit of negotiation and organising.
STRUCTURE
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? I will greet, present the front end, answer any questions and then launch the event, but not act as steward. 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.
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.
Did you make the trophy yourself? Bufo was sourced from a Mr Toad statue then layered with bufonite and gold leaf. The oak-discs base sourced separately 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!'
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.
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.
We have some sponsorship things in the pipeline, it just takes a bit of negotiation and organising.
STRUCTURE
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? I will greet, present the front end, answer any questions and then launch the event, but not act as steward. 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.
WTSC BACKGROUND
History of the WTSC
The WTSC - World Toads Singles Championship - is now in it's fifth inleadible year. In 2022 sixteen of the best Toads players came together to compete rallied round by organiser Jonny Wills. In 2023 that number doubled to 32 and in 2024 and 2025 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 non-profit venue renowned for it's sport and games-playing history, it's famously long bar counter and friendly bar staff.
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.
History of the WTSC
The WTSC - World Toads Singles Championship - is now in it's fifth inleadible year. In 2022 sixteen of the best Toads players came together to compete rallied round by organiser Jonny Wills. In 2023 that number doubled to 32 and in 2024 and 2025 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 non-profit venue renowned for it's sport and games-playing history, it's famously long bar counter and friendly bar staff.
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 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.
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.
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.
LEWES WORLDS v WORLD SINGLES What's the difference between the 'Lewes Worlds' in April and the WTSC 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 publicly accessible tables sourced from the toads community. This replicates 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 beginning of 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 based around 8 like-tables that don't get played anywhere else during the year.
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 beginning of 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 based around 8 like-tables that don't get played anywhere else during the year.
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.
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.
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 on and off, organising the tournament.
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 all-hours admin, emails, SMSs, FB messages, WhatsApp messages, social media, promotion, marketing, artwork, website hosting, networking, data curation, liaising with facilitators, discussions with experienced players, and fielding questions from potential participants - every time I go out😂.
There is always something to update every week and daily in the build up, where 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, Sean Connery and Michael Balls 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, it was born at a Lewes Singles night in 2018. 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.
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 all-hours admin, emails, SMSs, FB messages, WhatsApp messages, social media, promotion, marketing, artwork, website hosting, networking, data curation, liaising with facilitators, discussions with experienced players, and fielding questions from potential participants - every time I go out😂.
There is always something to update every week and daily in the build up, where 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, Sean Connery and Michael Balls 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, it was born at a Lewes Singles night in 2018. 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.
ABOUT THE RULES
Why are you so strict about rules, like no refunds for example? Or using the club toilet before the start, or practisng between rounds? The rules are for a reason and all have a knock-on effect to sixty-plus players. Everyone is watching everyone else over competitive advange or special treatment. The WTSC can't of course favour one player over another. Players may boast they got a rise, advantage or know inside info but that would be false as most info is posted here first. Some players are soooo competitive they look for loopholes, hence the exhaustive toadsplaining on this page. To answer specifically:
No refunds: the entry fees pay for costs already incurred like, website and admin fees - at all hours - and venue hire and liaison. We refund... and we've lost twice. One solution is maybe sell your space to someone and tell us who, asap. If not, thank you for supporting the WTSC.
Toilets: In 2025 two people used the loos prior to 3pm and four people complained they were getting an early warm-up 😂. So this year, please arrivhaving sorted yourself out before you come to St Mary's.
No practise between rounds: is one of our standard rules to stop people panic practising, being distracted from the tournament and gaining advantage over others who may still be playing. See the WTSC Rules page.
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.
Why are you so strict about rules, like no refunds for example? Or using the club toilet before the start, or practisng between rounds? The rules are for a reason and all have a knock-on effect to sixty-plus players. Everyone is watching everyone else over competitive advange or special treatment. The WTSC can't of course favour one player over another. Players may boast they got a rise, advantage or know inside info but that would be false as most info is posted here first. Some players are soooo competitive they look for loopholes, hence the exhaustive toadsplaining on this page. To answer specifically:
No refunds: the entry fees pay for costs already incurred like, website and admin fees - at all hours - and venue hire and liaison. We refund... and we've lost twice. One solution is maybe sell your space to someone and tell us who, asap. If not, thank you for supporting the WTSC.
Toilets: In 2025 two people used the loos prior to 3pm and four people complained they were getting an early warm-up 😂. So this year, please arrivhaving sorted yourself out before you come to St Mary's.
No practise between rounds: is one of our standard rules to stop people panic practising, being distracted from the tournament and gaining advantage over others who may still be playing. See the WTSC Rules page.
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.
ORGANISER
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.
Why do use 'we' a lot when its you doing all the organising? The WTSC is represented by all those taking part, and the attendance makes the day. I use 'we' to confirm that all inspiration, ideas, and competition come from the community. I am just one of the players and all the decided ways forward have come from listening to and facilitating the collective voice. None of this would happen without the help of landlords and landladies and experts in the game.
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.
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.
Why do use 'we' a lot when its you doing all the organising? The WTSC is represented by all those taking part, and the attendance makes the day. I use 'we' to confirm that all inspiration, ideas, and competition come from the community. I am just one of the players and all the decided ways forward have come from listening to and facilitating the collective voice. None of this would happen without the help of landlords and landladies and experts in the game.
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. I have multiple interests and pursuits in life, this is just one.
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.