UKCL Nationals: Meet the Tier 1 Titans Ready to Battle for the Crown

It’s nearly time for the UK Cornhole Nationals Showdown!

The most hotly anticipated event in the UK Cornhole calendar is just around the corner and the stage is set for fireworks. After four fierce qualifying rounds, the top sixteen are locked in and ready to unleash their A-game at Statfold Country Park on June 7th.

Let’s dive into the Tier 1 titans, the elite contenders who are primed to battle it out for glory, bragging rights, and the ultimate title.

Let’s meet the players who are ready to make history

The Favourites: Who Will Seize the Crown?

1.⁠ ⁠Liam McGrath (Wandsworth) – GB Cornhole Captain

The Machine. The Benchmark. The One to Beat.

Ranked No. 1, Liam dominated two qualifiers and rolls into Nationals with a confidence only a true champion can carry. His Instagram is a masterclass in grind and precision, and he’s not just big in the UK—he’s an ACO Pro (Seasons 20–22) and fresh off a win in Switzerland on the ACL stage.

Prediction: Bet on Liam to be in the final mix—but with this stacked field, he'll have to dig deep to stand on the top step.

2.⁠ ⁠Richard Blanke – (Germany)

One Tournament. One Win. Maximum Impact.

He flew in, saw, and conquered—Richard made just one qualifier appearance and walked away with the win. Now, he's returning as the lone European challenger, carrying serious momentum from a breakout ACL European season. Using his calm, surgical approach, he will be a major challenge for his opponents.

Prediction: Don’t be surprised if Richard walks away with the title. He’s here to make a statement—and possibly take the crown back to Germany again.

3.⁠ ⁠Joshua Hiser – (Bury) Oklahoma-Born Showman

The Charisma. The Confidence. The Craft.

An entertainer and elite bagger, Josh has been steadily building his arsenal and dominated Qualifier 4. Whether it's ACL Europe or ACO UK, he brings the noise as well as flair, fire, and finesse. His arsenal of shots is deep, and his timing? Impeccable.

Prediction: With momentum from a big Q4 win, Josh is primed for a deep run. If he hits the “Kings Seat” and the win, the roof might just come off the building.

4.⁠ ⁠Jared Neusch – (Solent)

Low-Key. High-Impact. Deadly Accurate.

Jared doesn’t make much noise, even when he’s knocking you out of the bracket. His refined style and pinpoint slide shot make him a nightmare matchup. A true student of the game, his steady rise has been relentless this season.

Prediction: Don’t blink, or he’ll already be in the final four. The bracket draw may determine just how far Jared flies.

5.⁠ ⁠Daniel Lilley – (Manchester)

The Bridesmaid No More?

Consistent, Always Dangerous. Ready to Win.

ACO Pro. ACO Europe Director. UKCL Pro and former GB Captain. Daniel Lilley has done it all….. except win the big one. His slide game is smooth, efficient, and punishing. Give him first bag, and it’s hole, hole, hole, hole and…..lights out.

Prediction: He’s been knocking on the door for seasons. Is this the year it finally opens? Watch for him in the final—he’s overdue for an event win and where better than Nationals.

6.⁠ ⁠Alistair Pettitt – (Ashby)

Fearless, Rising Fast, Playing Smart. Always in the Fight.

Alistair’s recent form has been nothing short of explosive. An ACO Pro and twice in the GB squad, he thrives under pressure. With high octane plays and an aggressive mindset, he grinds down opponents and builds unstoppable momentum.

Prediction: He’s beaten the best and is still improving. A podium finish feels like a real possibility, but which place?

7.⁠ ⁠Jonathan Chivers – (Bury)

Quiet Force. Steady. Strategic. Unshakable.

“JC” lets his bags do the talking. A UKCL stalwart with ACL, ACO and GB experience, he’s a consistent top performer and secured 2nd place at Q2. No theatrics—just pure, efficient cornhole.

Prediction: Top five is realistic. With a confidence boost, he could easily break onto the podium.

8.⁠ ⁠Charlie Lomax – (Ashby)

Big Stage Player, Air Mail Assassin, Big Game Hunter.

Last season’s Tier 2 champ has his eyes firmly set on Tier 1 glory. With back-to-back ACO Pro seasons and a top-three finish at Q2, Charlie is a threat every time he steps on the court. His trick shots aren't just flashy—they're lethal.

Prediction: If his confidence ignites early, he could shock a few big names and crash the top five or higher.

The Stage Is Set...

Eight elite competitors. One ultimate prize.

Who’s your pick for the 2025 UK Cornhole Champion?

Will one of the top seeds bring it home or could a dark horse from seeds 9–16 rise up and steal the show?

Stay tuned for the full preview of the remaining players who are hungry to upset the order and write their own Nationals story.