If you’re looking for something new to do in Statesboro, ‘Boro the Hatchet’ is the latest addition to the downtown area. The axe-throwing attraction recently opened this summer.

B.J McKellar, the owner, aims to reach college students and more residents to help grow the business. “Since we opened, it’s been mainly Statesboro residents, but there’s definitely some college students in the mix,” McKellar said. “Our main attraction is the axe-throwing, but unlike other venues, we also have pool tables, sitting areas, arcade games, and more. There’s something for everyone here,” he continued. 

Along with the arcade games, pool tables, and lounge areas, customers will find a bar area and multiple TVs.

With every new business comes the task of spreading the word and trying to build a strong community. “I’ve mainly been using social media to get the word out, but I’ve also been in contact with other businesses nearby,” he explained.

Over the last year, Statesboro’s downtown area has seen lots of growth. Boro the Hatchet is right in the middle of it all, making it a prime spot for people to check out while in the area. “Originally, we were just going to have the smaller area with only six lanes, but now that we have such a big space, it allowed us to have more activities,” McKellar said. 

Before getting a permanent, bigger space, McKellar was single-handedly operating a mobile trailer to offer axe-throwing events in the area. Upgrading to a building posed lots of challenges. “The biggest challenge was having to account for paying my employees, paying for utilities, obtaining permits, and more,” he said. “There’s a lot of things you wouldn’t expect if you’re doing it for the first time.” 

Now that the business has been up and running for a month, McKellar is taking it all in. “It’s very rewarding to see how people enjoy themselves and have fun while they are in here,” he said. “I put a lot of effort into this, and it’s nice to see that it all paid off.”