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Showcasing skill and teamwork, the University of Arkansas at Monticello Forestry Club had a successful day at the 2025 Lake Striker Axe Days, bringing home a first-place finish in the technical events category and securing a second-place overall finish at the competition. 

The Nov. 8 event pitted teams from UAM, Stephen F. Austin University, Louisiana State University and Louisiana Tech in technical and physical contests. The technical events tested participants’ forestry knowledge and expertise. The physical events, which included axe throwing and log chopping, trace their roots back to the 19th century, when lumberjacks held friendly competitions after work to pass the time and showcase their skills.

Along with their success in the technical events, UAM’s team also finished second place in physical events, showcasing their well-rounded expertise in the field.

“We’re extremely proud of our students for their hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Laura Sims, faculty advisor for the UAM Forestry Club. “Their success reflects not only their skills but also the strong forestry education and hands-on experience they receive here at UAM.”

Individual highlights from team members included David Coussens, from Little Rock, who placed first in Wood Identification in the technical portion of the competition. Tate Tanner, of Maumelle, took first place in the Men’s Underhand Chop — one of the signature physical events of the competition. The underhand chop simulates the technique needed to cut a felled tree. Standing on a block of wood, the contestant must use an axe to cut through the block from both sides.

“This competition was a great opportunity to test our skills and learn from other schools,” said Tanner, who also serves as president of the UAM Forestry Club. “We’ve got a strong team this year, and we’re proud to represent UAM wherever we compete.”

The Lake Striker Axe Days is an annual timbersports competition hosted by the Sylvans, the forestry club and timbersports team at Stephen F. Austin University, at the Lake Striker Resort in Reklaw, Texas. For participating teams across the West Gulf region, the event offers a chance to strengthen team bonds, connect with other forestry clubs and prepare for the upcoming Association of Southern Forestry Clubs’ Annual Conclave.