Christoffer Larsen returns to the podcast, now with 8 Grand Prix top 8s including a win at GP Lyon. His origin episode was episode 114 (which was rerun as episode 254).
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Christoffer Larsen when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep265
Joined team Genesis after his first episode: Traveled a lot and played a lot of Magic.
Playing with great players has made Christoffer a much better player.
Christoffer has traveled to Australia, the states and all over Europe. He picked up a 5th place finish at GP Portland and a win with his team at GP Lyon.
Ordering the wrong amount of food. LOL
Underestimating the opponent.
Playing really fast. Christoffer has dropped a few games (but has won many more).
Don't slow roll!
Christoffer can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Derek Candelario is a Logistics Coordinator working on site at Google. He currently lives in San Jose, CA and has been playing Magic off and on for the last 20 years with the goal of getting onto the Pro Tour. He has 1 Grand Prix Top 8 from GP Portland 2017. Derek is from San Ramon, CA.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Derek Candelrio when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep264
Stronghold
Shards of Alara
Visara the Dreadful
Regionals was Derek's first long tournament and his first big challenge.
Derek has faced frustration and set backs all along the way. He's learned to manage his expectations-both high and low.
Top 8 at GP Portland 2017.
How to get the most value from situations; resourcefulness; decision-making.
Preparation is key. Use Magic Online to practice and get reps in.
Having a good routine helps you build in the time to get good at something.
Card Evaluation in Limited stumps many player.
Magic has been Derek's #1 hobby... the trick is being confident and proud of what you do.
CFB, Twitch(Gaby, Kenji), talking with other players
Twitter:@Derek8701
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Alex Lloyd has 2 Grand Prix top 8s, with 1 win and numerous Top 16s. He's a 2 time Pro Tour Competitor, Level 1 Judge, and engaged in community development efforts. Alex is from Manchester, NH, USA.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Alex Lloyd when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep263
Scourge
Gatecrash
Toshiro Umezawa
Money. Alex found that Magic can be expensive, so money was a barrier to entry.
The length of time between big finishes can be tough. At GP DC (Journey Into Nyx Limited) Alex gets paired down and losses. He missed top 8 because of it.
Winning GP Atlanta
Networking. How to connect and maintain relationships.
Learn to sequence (especially as a control deck).
Working at a game store.
Health and fitness are key at big events.Stay hydrated. Make time for yourself. Have snacks ready to go.
Players don't value cards the way they should.
Networking is a huge. Connect with others as much as you can.
5-0 list from MTGO Leagues, MTG Goldfish, CFB, SCG
Twitter:@AlexLloydOSM
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Brandon Goe has been playing Magic since he was 4 and started hitting the competitive scene full throttle in Shards block. He has several 2nd places Pptq finish's and took 2nd at Montana State Championship. He made his first day 2 and first top 8 finishing 2nd at Grand Prix Portland 2017. He's looking to make Magic a career! Bradon lives in Spokane WA, USA.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Brandon Goe when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep262
6th Edition
Lorwyn Block
Tarmogoyf
Getting used to being the youngest person playing Magic. Also, Brandon had to learn how to handle losses. To get over that, he started taking criticism better.
Brandon struggled with the feeling of always getting 2nd and never 1st. He didn't take into account the consistent top 8 finishes.
Top 8 at GP Portland 2017. Being recognized by another player and having a kid say he wants to be like him.
Reading skills, research techniques, people skills
Take into account the cost of travel, food, and other expenses.
Players play decks they don't enjoy. Even if it's the best decks, if you don't enjoy it you'll play poorly.
Don't take losses too hard. Play decks you enjoy. Keep going for it no matter what.
Twitter:@NightFury301
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Piotr Glogowski is a Modern enthusiast, weird-deck lover, MTGO grinder, Twitch streamer and Silver level pro. He's made it to the top 8 of a Pro Tour and 2nd place at the World Magic Cup with his Polish teammates in 2017. He also has two Grand Prix top 8s, both in Modern, and played in the 2016 Magic Online Championship. Piotr lives in Poznań.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Piotr Glogowski when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep261
Return to Ravnica
Khans of Tarkir
Abzan Guide
Summer Bloom
Piotr realized that he wasn't good at Magic, he was only good with his specific deck. He struggled with Standard and Limited. To overcome this, he played with players who he knew were much better than him.
Piotr remembers a weekend when he tried to qualify for Pro Tour Kaladesh. He played a Paper Magic event on Saturday and Sunday and a Magic Online event at Midnight between the two.
He had two nearer misses.
Top 8 at Pro Tour Ixalan, 2nd Place at World Magic Cup 2017.
Pt Atlanta, because Piotr learned to learn. Also, preparing for the Magic Online Championship with Simon Nielsen.
Don't assume you know things. Listen to what others have to say.
If you want a broken deck in Modern, play Lantern Control.
Twitter:@kanister_mtg
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Jacob Nagro is a Silver level pro with 2 Grand Prix Top 8s (Denver 2016, Phoenix 2017). His goal is to play on every Pro Tour and to improve along the way. Jacob lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Jacob Nagro when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep260
Players don't think about how they tap their lands. Also, when you play your lands is important.
Jacob familiarizes himself with formats by playing them on MTGO a lot.
BW Vampires has great commons to support it.
Slowing down when it's time to make a decision.
Magic Online is a great tool for improving. Use it and you'll get out of it what you put in.
Twitter:@JacobNagro
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Louis Bachaud has been playing Magic for most of his life but has only been grinding Grand Prix for about 2-3 years. This summer he played his first Pro Tour in Japan where he played a win-and-in for top 8, he followed this up with his first GP top 8 in Warsaw 2017. Louis lives in Lyon, France.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Louis Bachaud when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep259
Onslaught
Khans of Tarkir/Time Spiral
Young Pyromancer
Cabal Therapy
Making day 2 for the first time was a challenge.
Louis was disqualified from a Grand Prix because he had an illegal deck.
GP Lille 2015. Louis missed the win-and-in for top 8 but was very proud of his performance. He felt in the Zone all event.
Louis has developed a very rational mindest from playing Magic. He's also embraced a stoic philosophy for life. Don't stress about the things you have no control over.
Build your own decks but still play the best decks to give you a leg up.
Sequencing and mechanical actions. Always do the thing that gives you more information first. (Draw a card first then make decisions.) Notice what information your opponent gives you.
Louis was obsessed with being good at Magic and pressure made him unhappy. Don't be results oriented. Be process oriented.
Louis can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Jean-Emmanuel Depraz started playing Magic when he was 11 and never really took a break from it. He's only been playing competitively for 5 or 6 years and has one Grand Prix top 8 and two top 16s, and has played in two Pro Tours. Jean-Emmanuel lives in Paris, France.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Jean-Emmanuel Depraz when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep258
Kamigawa
Eldritch Moon/Shadows Over Innistrad
Birthing Pod
Jean-Emmanuel had difficulty evaluating complex board states.
Jean-Emmanuel missed a trigger in a match in the quarterfinals of a PPTQ. He learned to analyze the board no matter if he's winning or losing.
Top 8 at Grand Prix Warsaw 2017.
New players protect life too much by chump blocking too soon.
Qualifying for his first Pro Tour by winning a PTQ(old system). Making day 2 for the first time at Grand Prix.
Players don't respect the best deck enough. Too many people assume they have a good matchup against the best deck when they should actually just play the best deck.
Always be confident that you can win. Put yourself in the mindset that it is possible.
Jean-Emmanuel can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Karl Sarap is the 2017 World Magic Cup team Captain for Estonia and has 1 Grand Prix top 8 from GP Liverpool 2017 and won his first World Magic Cup Qualifier in 2016. Karl lives in Tallinn, Estonia.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Karl Sarap when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep257
Saviors of Kamigawa
Shadows Over Innistrad
Gonti, Lord of Luxury
Karl quickly learned to listen to other players and ask questions of the better.
First Grand Prix (at age 16) cashing Second Grand Prix, Top 8 at GP Liverpool 2017.
Right after Karl came back to Magic he made it to top 8 of a WMCQ. He attacked with one creature too many and died on the crack back.
GP top 8 in Liverpool 2017.
Things don't come easy. You have to work.
Giving up before the game is over.
Karl goes through the spoiler twice and rates the cards himself. Then he needs LSVs Set review. He'll attend the pre-release and play as much as he can online.
Play Magic Online as much as you can. If you won't get better play MTGO.
Twitch.tv/eheh_dude, Channel Fireball, MTGO BBD, Gabriel Nassif
Karl can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Torsten Anders has been playing Magic since the end of 2002. He started playing competitively in 2004 but without any notable success. His best years started in 2008 when he first qualified for Nationals via a National qualifier which he would repeat for the following 3 years peaking with a win at a PTQ in Philadelphia in 2011. Since then he made Top 8 at GP Liverpool 2017. Torsten lives in Dresden, Germany.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Torsten Anders when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep256
Mercadian Masques
Scars of Mirrodin
Steel Hellkite
Playing well at a small event was Torsten's first challenge. Torsten played a lot of Magic Online.
Losing key matches always stinks. Torsten doesn't dwell on it.
Top 8 at GP Liverpool 2017. It was only Torsten's third day 2 at a Grand Prix.
Standard
Players don't think about how the game will progress. You need to think ahead and not just play this turn.
Have a good breakfast and stay hydrated.
Analyze your strategy. Know your role.
Torsten can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Hannes Mauch grew up in Bern, Switzerland. At the moment he is studying civil engineering in Zurich. He's 23 years old and I has been playing Magic: the Gathering competitively for about 7 years. He enjoys Magic in its complexity and difficulty to master. He has had decent GP results over the last five years, culminating in making Top 8 at GP Liverpool 2017. Hannes lives in Zurich, Switzerland.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Hannes Mauch when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep#255
7th Edition
Innistrad
Daze
Self-confidence was an issue for Hannes when he started because he was young. He stuck with it and get better over time.
At Hannes first big tournament-Swiss Nationals 2010-he was 14 years old and started out 7-0. He was the only 7-0 player. He lost 5 in a row and was knocked out of top 8. Hannes learned that Magic is still just a game.
Hannes' first day 2 at a Grand Prix. It was a team GP and they started 1-1-1. Then they kept winning and ended the day 2 at 8-1-1 to make day 2.
There's a lot of resources to use. Channel Fireball, Limited Resources, and videos.
now, draft players prioritize the wrong cards. Intermediate players only play from their perspective. Remember, your opponent is human. They think what you think.
Hannes is mostly an MTGO player. He drafts a lot online to prepare for Limited events. He'll do Sealed as well when a Sealed tournament is coming.
Play Magic how you wan and have fun. Do it your way.
Channel Fireball, Limited Resources Podcast, other players
Hannes can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Christoffer Larsen is from Denmark and has 4 Grand Prix Top 8’s and has competed in at least 10 Pro Tours. He was on the Danish World Magic Cup team in 2015.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Christoffer Larsen when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Click here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep254
Apocalypse
Ravnica: City of Guilds – Selesnya
Sulfuric Vortex
Travel a lot. Likes going to Grand Prixs with friends.
Damage on the stack.
SCG team event. Had a really bad UR deck.
Top 8 of World Magic Cup with the team (back-to-back 2HG wins.)
Christoffer hates losing.
Take some time to move past it. Don’t whine.
Know your opponent’s deck. So many players don't think of their opponent.
Watch videos!
Ask other for input and adjust
Decks, clothes, code names
Talk to tournament players, ask for help, borrow decks.
Be kind and helpful to new players.
Work out, get byes (they allow you to sleep in), eat breakfast.
Don’t take it too seriously and have fun.
Christoffer can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
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Samuel Ihlenfeldt has just started making a name for himself by busting onto the Magic scene when he made Top 8 at Pro Tour Ixalan. Sam lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Samuel Ihlenfeldt when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep253
7th Edition
Innistrad/Khans of Tarkir
Pirate's Cutlass
Sam used to be afraid of big tournaments. But by going over and over again he got past that feeling.
Sam made it to the top 8 of an RPTQ and lost. He recognizes he made mistakes but in the match that mattered he mentally confounded himself and beat himself up.
Top 8 at PT Ixalan. But also, when Sam learned that two of his closest friends were going to PT Rivals of Ixalan. Sam made top 8 he knew he'd be going with his friends.
Breathing will help many situations.
Not breathing. You need oxygen. Write down a reminder and breathe.
Anyone can do it. Sam knows that with persistence you can make it.
Twitter:@ihlenfeldt
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Jeff Pyka is a long time grinder who made top 16 at his 3rd Pro Tour - Pro Tour Ixalan. He also has a top 8 finish at GP Cincinnati 2014 with UW devotion. Jeff lives in Hamden, Connecticut.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Jeff Pyka when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep252
Ice Age
Ravnica: City of Guilds
Lightning Angel
Not realizing what his own mistakes were. Plus, Jeff always wanted to build and play his own deck.
RPTQ for Honolulu. Jeff was playing a deck and was very confident. He miscalculated always and then lost.
He tilted hard and lost game 3.
Top 16 at Pro Tour Ixalan.
Vocabulary. All keywords have meaning. Taking the punches of life, dusting off and moving on.
Jake Mondello, Antonio De Rosa
Players don't accept that they made a mistake. Take more ownership.
Don't let one game ruin your day.
GAM Podcast, The Grinder Podcast, Top Level Podcast, MTG Goldfish
Twitter:@PykaPower9001
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Daniel Gardner is a 26-year-old Business Development Manager for a Global biscuit manufacturer. He's been playing magic since 8th Edition/Mirrodin and enjoys watching and playing football, playing poker and of course Magic. He's the 2009 UK National Champion and placed 3rd and 8th at the UK Nationals in 2010 and 2017. He placed 19th at Pro Tour San Diego 2010 and 4th at GP Florence 2015. Daniel comes from London, UK.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Daniel Gardner when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep251
8th Edition/Mirrodin
M10/Zendikar
Baneslayer Angel
Playing right decks. Daniel would get bored and switch decks too often.
At Pro Tour San Diego 2010, Daniel had 3 win-and-ins to make it to top 8 and lost all there. Daniel still got his best Pro Tour record yet.
Take a step back and recognize what you've done well.
Winning UK Nationals 2009.
Making decisions with Limited decisions and then dealing with the results.
Standard
Players don't control their tells and give away too much. Stay cool you cause your opponent to question.
Daniel checked out the metagame using online sites and identified a few decks that he felt he'd like.
He doesn't like going to a tournament with a tweaked deck that just won an event so he a winning lost and practiced.
Enjoy playing. Remember it's a game and if you want to do well, practice and network.
Daniel can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Ross Broxup is the English Nationals 2017 finalist and rounds out the World Magic Cup team that will be representing England this year. Ross lives in Durham, England.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Ross Broxup when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep250
Duels of the Planeswalkers(2008)
Dragons of Tarkir/Hours of Devastation
Master of the Pearl Trident
Ross had a mental block that whenever he sat across a good player he would lose. He had to get to the point where he understood he had a chance. This came through practice.
At UK Nationals 2017, Ross picked the wrong strategy in a matchup and lost. The issue was he switched his plan midway through. If you have a plan make sure you have a good reason to switch.
Being a finalist at English Nationals 2017.
How to deal with stress.
Ross is working on his technical gameplay. Sequencing and lines of play.
Playing the opponent instead of the game. Learn to focus on the game regardless of who you're playing against.
Ross felt confident with Limited and focused on Constructed. He considered a few options and settled on Mardu Vehicles. He felt good about Limited because he practiced a lot.
Don't be intimidated or underappreciate who you're playing against.
Ross can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Autumn Burchett last came on the podcast after her 11th place finishes at Pro Tour Battle for Zendikar. Since then she has become the English National Champion, going undefeated in a field of almost 400 people, and is now eagerly awaiting the World Magic Cup later this year in Nice, France. Autumn lives in London, UK.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Autumn Burchett when she shared her story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep249
Streaming a lot more and attending more event. Autumn decided that she's going to be practicing anyway, might as well stream it. It keeps her motivated.
Autumn had quite different experiences working with two teams for two Pro tours. She learned it's crucial to have a team that communicates and shares information. There's a notion you have to have a team to do well, Autumn learned that it's important to have a team that suits you.
Preparation went much better for this event because Autumn found a group that communicated well with her. She practiced a lot and shared the results. 36 hours before the event, she switched decks and jammed several games to get a feel of it.
Accept that sometimes Magic needs to take a back seat. When you come back you'll be refreshed and ready to face new challenges.
Twitter:@AutumnLilyMTG
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Niels Molle is the UK World Magic Cup team Captain and returns to the show with 2 Grand Prix Top 8 finishes and a Gold level Pro. Originally from the Netherlands but coming to us from England.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Neils Molle when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep248
Niels has spent the year playing more Magic Online and a lot more Grand Prix.
Niels' Limited game has improved a bunch this past season.
Niels played a Mardu vehicles lost. As the English team captain, he's with the other members to prepare for the World Magic Cup.
There are several tips 1 deck with Temur energy being the top.
In reflection, Niels realizes that his technical gameplay needs work. (Money players struggle with this.) His solution is to slow down and consider the lines more.
Players are sometimes hesitant to take the next step. There's no substitute for just going.
Neils can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Quentin Martin has 4 Grand Prix top 8s, 1 Pro Tour top 8 and multiple top 16s. He’s played on the Worlds team for Canada and most recently took 4th at the UK Nationals in 2017. He was the #1 player in the UK for 8 years, has his own Player's Card and is still near the top of the UK list based on Pro points. Quentin lives in Douglas, Isle of Man.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Quentin Martin when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep247
Ice Age/Mirage
Ravnica City of Guilds
Solemn Simulacrum
Quentin realized he wasn't as good at playing as his peers. But his strength was in the analytics. He focused on understanding the metagame.
In a feature match on the Pro Tour, Quentin was playing to make top 8. A judge came over mid-game and said there was a mistake with his deck registration and he got a loss.
He reviewed the whole situation and realized he wouldn't have done anything differently. After he knew that, he stopped beating himself up about it.
Making first Grand Prix top 8; top 8 in UK Nationals 2017; Getting a Player Card
Magic taught Quentin how to make friends and allowed him to see the world.
Sleep well the night before. Eat well. Stay hydrated. Forget your lost match.
Not asking 'why'. Talk with players about their lines. Also, not thinking player don't consider their turn ahead of time.
Smile and have fun. Go with your gut.
Quentin can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Javier Dominguez returns to MTG Pro Tutor after two years of focused improvement. He's a Spanish Magic player with 6 Grand Prix Top 8s, including 2 Wins, 4 Pro Tour Top 16s, and just recently placed 2nd in the 2017 Magic Worlds Championship. Javier lives in Palau de Plegamans. (Check out episode 47 for his first appearance on the podcast.)
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Javier Dominguez when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep246
Javier leveled up by playing more and really focusing on improving. Last time he was on he was a Silver Pro and now his Platinum focusing on improving has paid off.
In testing, Javier quickly learned that forcing a tribe/archetype would not work. He focused on Limited and played a deck he knew for Constructed.
Consider that others are thinking too. All parties are doing their best.
Not listening to others. It's easy to assume you know the matchup but you'll be surprised when you play the other side.
Know your Constructed deck inside and out.
Magic Online, CFB, Record your drafts
Twitter:@Thalaiet
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Pete Ward made 2nd place twice at World Magic Cup Qualifiers and has made 1st place once. He went 10-6 at Pro Tour Aether Revolt and most recently got 3rd place at English Nationals 2017. Pete lives in Bath, England.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Pete Ward when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep245
Return to Ravnica
Origins
Nantuko Husk
Pete struggled with confidence at first. He wouldn't think he had a chance if he played against a good player. By constantly playing, Pete got more comfortable.
Pete recognizes times when his motivation to play is lower. However, by having people who he knows want to see him play keeps him going.
Winning the WMCQ and playing on the English Worlds Team.
Playing for the World Magic Cup Team.
Players don't learn from every game. There's always something you could have done better.
Pete plays a lot of Magic Online and gets really comfortable with the format.
Take something away from every game.
Twitter:@Killablastlol
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Andrew Baeckstrom is a member of team Channel Fireball Fire and was on the US National Team in 2014. He’s made Silver for the last 3 years and has 3 Grand Prix top 8s to his name including a win at GP Providence 2017. Andrew lives in Denver, Colorado.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Andrew Baeckstrom when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep244
Prophecy
Dragons of Tarkir
Rancor
Andrew struggled with the mindset that because everyone had been practicing for a long time that he had to come up with some crazy brew that no one was prepared for. He played really bad decks until his friend Gaby snapped him out of it.
At Pro Tour Journey into Nyx, Andrew punted and lost his chance for top 8.
Qualifying for his first Pro Tour.
The journey from player to a game designer.
Winning a single match at a draft. First top 8 at a PTQ. At his second GP, Andrew made top 4. Winning World Magic Cup Qualifier 2014.
Not looking for opportunities to learn from other players. Magic is a 'big ego' sport and that gets in the way of their improving.
Make sure you're having fun.
Twitter:@abaeckst
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Leon Van der Linden played for the Dutch World Magic Cup Team in 2016 and has 1 Grand Prix Top 8 where he was a finalist at GP Turin 2017. Leon lives in the Netherlands.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Leon Van der Linden when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep243
Return to Ravnica
Hour of Devastation
Gideon, Ally of Zendikar
Getting a single win at an FNM. Leon started looking online and talking to people who are better than him. Being a student of Magic has served him well.
Leon made a lot of top 8's in the PPTQs system but never closed the tournament.
Even if you're losing you're still learning. Now, Leon is bronze and doesn't have to so PPTQs anymore.
Qualifying for the World Magic Cup in 2016.
Always be polite. Wish your opponent good luck.
Going to his first Grand Prix and making day 2. Making day 2 again, showed Leon he can do this.
Not taking side boarding seriously.
Leon chooses to play Mardu vehicles because he had experience with the deck.
Be passionate about Magic.
Leon can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Sam Rubin has one of the largest Magic: The Gathering Twitch channels and has over 8 thousand followers and 2 Star City Game Top 8's. He travels to various tournaments around the world as he strives to get on the Pro Tour. Sam is from Manchester, Connecticut.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Sam Rubin when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep242
Return to Ravnica
Gatecrash / Khans of Tarkir
Wojek Halberdiers
Sam's friends didn't go to play competitively. From game one, Sam knew he wanted to go big. Since his friends didn't want to play at that level, Sam turned to MTGO and played a lot on that platform.
Sam played at a team event and did very well. The team wanted to go to another event in Seattle but delayed in booking the flight until it was too late. He let his team down and felt terrible. He learned so much from this experience.
After Hour of Devastation comes out, Sam had over 800 live viewers. This was huge for him.
Getting his first check after a Magic event. Getting 100 viewers on Twitch.
Phil at Get Some Gaming, Travis Woo
Players can prepare better. The more you put in, the more you get out.
Whatever you want in life, you have to work for it. You get out what you put in.
Twitter:@Samball49
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Matthew Nickolai has 1 Grand Prix top 8 at GP Toronto 2017 and was a Junior Super Series Super Star. You may recognize him from his twitch stream @ twitch.tv/mattame. Matt lives in Waterford, Michigan.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Matthew Nickolai when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep241
Mercadian Masques / Invasion
Ravnica City of Guilds
Dark Confidant
Playing his own thing until he saw others playing really good decks. He copied those decks and started doing really well. He learned to embrace the works of others.
Matt made it to the finals of a big event and would have gone to Nationals if he won. He lost and took a break from Magic. Taking a break isn't always bad.
Top 8 at GP Toronto 2017.
Savage Stomp - green powerhouse
Snapping Sailback
Charging Monstrosaur
Players put cards on their Limited deck that is sub-optimal. Watch others who are better than you and practice a bunch.
For Limited events, it is very important to be early on evaluating cards. Knowing what's good when others don't take practice but it is worth it.
Play more Limited. ;)
Twitter:@MatthewNickolai
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Christian Hauck has 3 Grand Prix Top 8`s, the most recent being the Standard GP Turin 2017. Christian lives in Mutterstadt Germany.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Christian Hauck when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep240
German Limited Edition
Alpha/Beta
Knight of the Reliquary
Christian played really well and made day 2 at his first GP. But even though he played well and got a good result it wasn't enough. This early challenge was also his lowest point. He learned to embrace variance.
Making top 8 at a National tournament for the first time.
Make the best of any situation you're freed with.
Players keep too many hands. You need to be more willing to toss an OK seven-card hand for the chance of a great six-carder.
Christian reviewed the decks that did well in the most recent event and then studied the metagame.
Keep trying. Never give up even when you lose.
Christian can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Bardini Alain has 1 Grand Prix top 8 and has played in 1 Pro Tour. He’s also the 2017 French National Champion after playing in 2 WMCQ last year. He made the semi-finale of the last mocs playoff and 5th position for the leaderboard point. Bardini lives in Toulouse, France.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Bardini Alain when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep239
6th Edition
Khans of Tarkir
Siege Rhino
Bardini started at FNM's and slowly got better and better until he moved from there to PTQs. He focused and ground and got better little by little.
Bardini learned to play a lot.
Bardini went through a period where he lost all the time. Example: At GP Metz 2017, Bardini had a great start on day 1 but went 0-5 on day 2. He was crushed and felt like quitting Magic. He learned to not get ahead of himself mentally.
Becoming the 2017 French National Champion.
Bardini has learned that to get results he needs to practice a lot. This is true for life.
Raphael Levy
Players try to convince others that their cards and decks are good without listening to others (who may be better than them).
Bardini plays a lot on MTGO and uses this tool to get reps in. He explores the best decks and gets a feel for what beats him. As he cycles through the best decks, he finds the one that is good and resonates with his style.
Magic Online, Teams and other players
Twitter:@BardiniAlain
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Kyle Boggemes a prolific Wizard who has an impressive record of top finishes at Pro Tours and Grand Prix. To date, he has 2 Pro Tour top 16’s, including a 2nd place finish, and 3 Grand Prix top 8’s including one win.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Kyle Boggemes when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep238
Ice age
Invasion
Fact or Fiction
Playing at a very competitive store. Kyle formed friendships with players close to his ages. From there they played and traveled together and started talking to the better players.
2011-the whole year. Kyle had great success in 2010 and all the benefits rolled over to 2011. However, he did horribly all year long. It was tough to have so many people follow him and then not do well.
Winning GP Cincinnati in 2014. It was his first top 8 after coming back and it was a win so it was a big deal.
Kyle has been able to work hard out at something and see tangible results.
Players don't understand side boarding. People over the sideboard. Have a focused game plan in game 1. Then, post-sideboard, you can be more targeted.
For Limited, Kyle plays as many sealed events as he can because he recognizes that's his weakness. He talked a lot with friends about his pool.
Everyone has different goals when playing Magic. What are your goals? Know them and operate within that.
Draftsim.com, GatheringMagic.com
Kyle can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Sergio Ferrer made top 16 of his first Pro Tour in Kyoto 2017. He’s also made top 64 at GP Barcelona and dominates his local scene as two-time Amonkhet Game Day Champion and the Theros block league champion of his city. Sergio lives in Valencia, Spain.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Sergio Ferrer when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep237
Darksteel
Amonkhet
Ashiok, Nightmare Weaver
Sergio struggled to win a Game Day. Sergio would test a lot on MTGO and with friends. Through constant practiced Sergio improved.
The near misses along the way taught Sergio to enjoy Magic as a game and remove the pressure of doing well.
Pro Tour Kyoto 2017 Top 16.
'If you lose today, you can win tomorrow.'
When players make a mistake they tend to dwell on it and cause a chain reaction of bad decisions. When you make a mistake just tell yourself to move on. Breathe and focus on the situation now.
Practice, practice, practice. Sergio drafted online with a friend a ton! They discussed picks and lines of play.
Practice a lot and discuss games with your friends.
Optimism versus Delusion article on CFB, Show, and Telling of moxes.com, CFB, SCG, Team La Comarca
Twitter:@noesmitipo
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Theophile Delavy is a Swiss Magic: The Gathering player living in Geneva and has 1 Grand Prix top 8 at GP Metz 2017 - Hours of Devastation Limited.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Theophile Delavy when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep236
Champions of Kamigawa
Champions of Kamigawa
Dark Confidant
The stress of attending his first PTQ. Theo felt pressured to prove to people he belonged at Magic events.
Theo's first PTQ top 8 was a big moment. He followed that up with making day 2 at his first Grand Prix.
At GP Utrecht, Theo was really hoping for a certain archetype to be viable. He was building on past knowledge and learned to consider each new set on its own.
Top 8 at GP Metz.
Theo has learned to just be himself and play how he wants. Not to worry about what others think. In life, he does the same.
Study the spoiler and read set reviews. Pay attention to cards that have large varying opinions.
Being too aggressive when they are winning.
Theo plays Limited with friends twice a week. Through this process, he gets to know the cards and discuss the picks with his friends.
It doesn't matter what people think of you as a Magic player.
Theo can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Kris McCord is a Magic grinder from Switzerland who currently lives in Auburn Alabama (attending Auburn University). He’s reaching for Silver or better by the end of the 2017/18 season and is off to a good start with one Grand Prix top 8.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Kris McCord when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep235
Champions of Kamigawa
Time Spiral
Cryptic Command
Losing. Kris learned that you can't win every time. He realized he wasn't having fun anywhere and decided to focus on having fun and accepting the variance.
Top 8 of a PTQ when Kris felt favored but choked and took it hard. He decided to play more casually and reconnected with the fun of Magic.
Top 8 at GP Indianapolis 2017 and qualifying for his first Pro Tour through an RPTQ earlier in the year.
Accepting that things don't always pan out as planned. Make the best of every situation given to you.
Kris observed all the top players and learned from them.
Read articles, discuss Magic with friends.
Mulligan decisions.
For Limited, Kris practiced with a team and drafted a lot.
Kris takes a carry on so he doesn't have to check in the bag. Deck box, life pod, pen, dice, water, snacks
Stay positive. Negativity serves o one and has a poor effect on your game. Positive attitudes help you whether many bad situations.
Kris can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Gregory Michel is a graduate student and competitive Magic player in Minneapolis MN. He mostly plays Limited but also dabbles in Standard and Commander as well. He recently made Top 8 for the first time at a Grand Prix by piloting UW Monument to 7 places at GP Denver!
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Gregory Michel when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep234
Portal
Battle for Zendikar
Munda,Ambush Leader
The first competitive event was a Grand Prix in D.C. 2014. Gregory cashed this event and the next 3 GP's. However, he hit a low and that was the struggle he faced.
Experiencing the stress of putting too much pressure on himself. Greg learned that Magic is a hobby and should be an escape.
GP Omaha where Greg played Multiple Platinum Pros and was one win start of making top 8.
When Greg applies himself to something he likes with a friend he can succeed.
Andrew Elenbogen of Episode 108.
Playing a bunch of formats has improved Greg's Magic instincts.
Self-confidence pops up for Greg. He doesn't think of himself as a great player.
People feel a need to prove they are good. In reality, they should listen to others and learn as much as they could.
Greg found a deck that he liked and took it to events and practiced a lot with friends.
Have fun when you play. Magic is a hobby so have fun.
Twitter:@Magic_Michelp
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Joao Lelis is a Timmy/Vorthos player who loves eternal formats and had never made a Grand Prix day 2 until he became the Champion of GP Sao Paulo 2017! Joao lives in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Joao Lelis when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep233
Mirrodin
Kamigawa
Gifts Ungiven
Learning to play many rounds in a single day and playing against people who aren't your friends.
Joao learned the rules very well, so people can't use that against him. He also decided the Magic was a big part of his life and he wanted something more.
After the Shadowmoor set, there were no local players still into Magic. Joao didn't have any one to play with. It was a lonely time for him.
Becoming Champion of GP Sao Paulo 2017.
Joao learned that maximizing your chances to win is the best you can do, whether you win or lose.
Players don't get the full value of their spells and creatures. They don't wait for the best time.
If you're just starting out, go to tournaments. They're fun. You'll learn and grow and maybe get lucky and win.
Joao can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Steve Hatto is 34 years old and started playing Magic in Mirage. He played off and on like many do until he came back for good in Scars of Mirrodin. His goal was clear at that point - make it to the most prestigious events that Magic had to offer. There was, however, one problem: at his first FNM there were only 3 players… Steve lives in Luxembourg.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Steve Hatto when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep232
Mirage
Urza's Saga
Cryptic Command
Finding players to test with. Steve finished in the top 8 of his first PTQ after coming back. Finding players with similar goals was rough. He focused on being polite and making friends at events.
First GP top 8 in 2015. Steve learned that mindset is huge to traveling up.
Steve accepted that he's pretty terrible at Magic. He also realized that he focused too much on doing well.
Travelling to Pro Tour Nashville, Steve's flight was delayed several times and then canceled. He made the best of it by sneaking into the business hugely.
Luxembourg doubled its player base and went from 1 store to 3.
Approaching situations with the acceptance that you don't always have total control over the outcome.
Forgetting to lay lands. But beyond that people will follow up a mistake with another mistake out of embarrassment.
For Modern, Steve knows his deck and can pick it up and go. This is only possible by practicing a lot in between events.
Figure out what your goals and then see what's missing to get you there. Play Magic a level you enjoy.
Twitter:@SteveHatto
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Vitor Grassato has a couple Grand Prix top 16s and finished 6th at Grand Prix San Antonio with Jon Stern and Alex Majlaton. He recently got 2nd place at GP Sao Paulo 2017! Vitor lives in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Vitor Grassato when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep231
Prophecy
Ravnica
Meloku the Clouded Mirror
Vitor constantly wanted to improve and would always talk to players who were better than him.
In 2010, Vitor was coming off one of his better results at the time. But he was young and angry and got in fight with a judge. He got banned for 3 years! After cooling off he talked to the judge and got his banning cut in half. Vitor took this time to change his entire mindset.
Making 6th place with Jon Stern and Alex Majlaton.
If you want results, you need to focus at the maximum level.
Miscalculating win percentages and choosing to draw when you should play.
If you want to reach the Pro Tour, you have to think it's possible and practice.
Twitter:@VitorGrassato
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Robert Anderson has played on several Pro Tours and is the Champion of Grand Prix Toronto 2017. Robert works at Face to Face Games and lives in Canada.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Robert Anderson when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep230
Revised
Innistrad
Calcite Snapper
The mental game. It's easy to be negative so Robert has focused a lot on keeping a positive attitude.
His first PTQ win.
Making day 2 of a Grand Prix.
Alexander Hayne, Doug Potter
Pro Tour Amsterdam wasn't that great. Robert lost to decks that he had beat in play test. He also 0-3 a draft that he felt good about.
Winning Grand Prix Toronto.
Calculating odds.
Lack of format knowledge in Limited. Not read give opponent right.
For Limited, Robert recommends focusing on the draft and talking with others.
Watch videos and go to FNM.
Don't get discouraged and play Magic Online.
Mana Deprived, First Strike Podcast, Reddit, MTG Top 8
Robert can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Mani Davoudi has 2 Grand Prix Top 8s (Houston 2013 and the Modern Champion at GP Las Vegas 2017). Mani lives in Vancouver, Canada.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Mani Davoudi when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep229
Lorwyn
Scars of Mirrodin Block
Birthing Pod
When Mani moved to Victoria for the university he had no friends and it was harder to play Magic. He turned to Magic Online.
First PTQ top 8, Mani played all the MTGO PTQs that he could. He remembers doing well but losing in the finals.
Mani was playing at a local event and he was undefeated going into the last round. In the last round, he got a deck check and as he waited he wandered around the store. The judge thought he was trying to get information and disqualified him!
Grand Prix Champion Las Vegas 2017.
Becoming more social and enjoying people.
Players get a situation stuck in their mind and don't refresh the data as often as they should.
Don't lose sight of the big picture by putting so much pressure on yourself.
Twitter:@Zapgaze
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Chris Ferber is a doctor who is new to the upper tiers of competitive Magic with 1 Grand Prix top 8. Chris lives in Torrance, CA and plays at Fire and Dice.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Chris Ferber when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep228
Odyssey
Rise of the Eldrazi
Green Sun's Zenith
Card evaluation was tough for Chris. Talking with others helped Chris learn faster.
Top 8 at several PTQ's helped Chris realize he was actually a good player.
At a Shadows Over Innistrad Sealed RPTQ Chris went 3-0 right off the bat. He needed to win just one of three rounds to make it. But he couldn't get there. He learned to manage his time better.
Top 4 at Cleveland with teammates.
Some things are out of your control but you still don't blame luck.
Magic gave Chris an analytical brain to look out problems and solve them.
Side boarding decisions in Limited.
Chris joined as many games as possible to understand the format and set.
Chris has an autopilot made that he wants to turn off more often.
Backpack, snacks, water, energy bars, decks, tokens
Put in practice.
Chris can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Ben Coursey is a Level 2 Judge who has 1 Grand Prix Top 8 and 3 Pro Tour Qualifier Top 8's. Ben lives in New Hampshire.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Ben Coursey when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep227
Revised
Lorwyn
Thoughtseize
When Ben first discovered PTQs it was quite a jump from a casual player that he was a little put-off. Competitive Magic was really rough. Ben learned how to navigate it.
States 2007, Ben tested and came up with winning decks that got him to the top.
Top 8 at Grand Prix Las Vegas 2017 (Modern).
The ability to plan ahead.
Modern
Learn the archetypes.
Rules knowledge.
Players don't pay attention. Call a judge and ask for the Oracle text on foreign cards.
Play as much as you can.
Twitter:@Ben_Cenobi
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Simon Linabury rounds out the trio that took down Grand Prix Sydney 2017. Simon lives in Canberra, Australia.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Simon Linabury when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep226
7th Edition
Oath of the Gatewatch
Siege Rhino
Figuring out what his opponent had and then what to do with the information. His test group was key in helping him overcome and learn.
Lost in finals of a Pro Tour qualifier. But what stands out is a Game Day when Simon was way ahead and still lost. He learned just because you ahead don't mean you'll win.
Winning Grand Prix Sydney 2017.
Simon has hone analytical skills and applied that else where.
Simon is competitive but loves seeing there close to him doing well.
Side boarding. Not having a good idea of how to side board in certain match ups. Are cards you're putting in better than the cards you're taking out.
Identify the best decks and play the best build.
Deck box, dice, tokens, pen, paper, snacks
Don't be too hard on yourself.
CFB, SCG, MTG Mint Card, TCG Player
Twitter:@Winnerbury
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Craig Wescoe is the world's foremost expert of everything White in Magic. He’s the Pro Tour Dragon's Maze Champion, has 3 Pro Tour Top 8's + 2 more Top 16s and his Grand Prix record currently stands at 11 top 8s, including 1 win. He’s a weekly columnist for magic.tcgplayer.com. Craig lives in New York.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Craig Wescoe when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep225
Ice Age
Visions
Swords to Plowshares
Transportation as a young player was tough. Balancing life and Magic was an early struggle and as Craig got better, he could do more Magic.
Winning the first tournament with his own deck. Also, going to his early Pro Tours and seeing the caliber of players from Magic hubs like New York, Los Angeles, and Boston.
Pro Tour Amsterdam, Paul Rietzl won with a white-based deck-very Craig Wescoe. Craig could have switched, but didn't.
Craig learned he regrets not playing white when he can.
Winning Pro Tour Dragon's Maze.
Magic is a microcosm of life.
People aren't honest with themselves when they make a mistake. They also don't think about mulligans and side boards in advance.
Look at decks and their weaknesses, how can you attack it?
Even though winning is important, always have fun.
Twitter:@Brimaz4Life
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Daniel Wong is a San Francisco Bay Area grinder with a top 8 in the Modern portion of Grand Prix Las Vegas 2017. He's an up-and-comer who will be playing in his first Pro Tour in November 2017 at Pro Tour Albuquerque. Daniel lives in Berkeley, CA.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Daniel Wong when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep224
M13 on Magic Duels
Khans of Tarkir
Howling mine
Side boarding. Daniel doesn't write a side boarding guide ahead of time. He thinks about what his opponent will do and then sides against that.
Punting on important games. Play a little slower, think a little more.
Top 8 GP Vegas 2017.
Expected Value (EV). If I make this decision, how likely am I to get the desired outcome.
Play more games. Got to know what they do and how they work.
Controlling emotions. Not allowing yourself to treat others poorly because you feel poorly.
Not spending enough time thinking about your turns.
Always consider how to make your deck better, take snacks and water.
Keep learning at every game.
Daniel can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Karl Eyre is a 23 years old freight and logistics manager at a small POS company. He’s a casual, online gamer who started playing Magic in 2008. He started to play at Meta Games in 2009 which was known for having high-level players. Draft and Australian Highlander are his formats of choice. In 2014 he played his first Grand Prix and since then he’s played in 8 GP's with 3rd at Sydney 2017, 9th at Sydney 2014 and a near miss at Melbourne 2016. Karl lives in Melbourne, Australia.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Karl Eyre when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep223
Lorwyn
None
Rith's Charm
Believing you can do it was a struggle for Karl. He didn't have a large collection but little by little he increased his confidence.
First, win at a Highlander tournament. First Grand Prix, Karl mode day.
When Karl was 17, he didn't understand how intentional draws worked and got disqualified for prize splitting.
3rd Place at Grand Prix Sydney.
Critical assessment. Every time you play you should write down all your mistakes.
Karl learns by doing.
Players don't make the initiative and see their potential on board.
Players need to learn when they are the aggressor.
Playing other games helps Karl understand.
Deck box, sleeves, clothes
Don't stay up all night, network between rounds.
Look through old cards. There are gems hidden everywhere.
Network. Find the best players and talk with them.
Karl can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Ivan Schroder is an Australian grinder and member of Team EXP who just made his first Grand Prix top 8 by taking down GP Sydney 2017 with his team. Ivan lives in Canberra, Australia.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Ivan Schroder when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep222
Legions
Champions of Kamigawa
Meloku the Clouded Mirror
Ivan is a brewer and he would try to make cards work, even if they weren't competitive.
2nd place at New Zealand Nationals.
Winning a PTQ and going to Pro Tour Dark Ascension.
In Worlds, Ivan is up a game... but still loses because he had every high variance cards.
Another time, Ivan is at a Grand Prix playing a game to get into day 2. He was looking too far ahead and made the only line of play that gave his opponent the way out to win.
Getting back to the Pro Tour through winning GP Sydney. Ivan is also really proud of an epic win he pulled off in Pro Tour Dark Ascension.
Magic and life are not all about you. Both players need to have fun.
Developing an adaptable, longer plan.
Tilting. Players who can't handle their emotions when things don't go their way is a problem Ivan sees. Stop sharing bad beat stories. That's not where your focus should be.
Magic Online has become one of Ivan's best tools. There's too big of a skill range at the shop, so Ivan plays online to get the high-level practice he needs.
We can't get better in isolation. Cultivate your community.
Ivan can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Teresa Pho is a data analyst who just qualified for her first Pro Tour by making top 4 of a Regional Pro Tour Qualifier. Teresa lives in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Teresa Pho when she shared her story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep221
Avacyn Restored / M13
Khans of Tarkir
Squee's Toy
Catching up to the new rules. Damage not going on the stack.
Teresa won a Grand Prix Trial and got 2 byes for her first Grand Prix.
At GP Pittsburgh 2016, Teresa lost her win-and-in to day 2.
Top 4 of an RPTQ and qualifying for the Pro Tour. Making day 2 at GP Pittsburgh 2017.
Magic is a lot of strategies and resource management. That helps a ton at work.
Teresa takes Advil to relieve a headache at tournaments.
Teresa sees she's the type of person who is competitive and can dedicate time and energy to what she loves.
Players are bad at combat.
Look at the mana your opponent has up, think of what you've seen, cover how you think they'll block.
Teresa studies the meta and decides the best build to go with. Then, she tweaks the sideboard for herself.
Watch coverage and really analyze what's going on.
CFB
Twitter:@teresapho
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Jim Wilks is an Australian grinder and the Captain of Team EXP. He’s made the Top 8 of World Magic Cup 2016 with Team Australia and is the Champion of Grand Prix Sydney 2017. Jim lives in Canberra, Australia.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Jim Wilks when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep220
Onslaught
Kamigawa
Sphinx's Revelation
The idea that he didn't have to win every tournament. this detached Jim from the results and led to more wins.
World Magic Qualifier-Jim made top 8 and realized he could play at higher level.
Grand Prix Sydney- Zendikar Sealed- Jim wins play a Blue/Red deck. He had a great position on the board and didn't think he could lose. He lost because he didn't think all the way through the turn.
Don't get over confident.
Top 8 World Magic Cup 2016, Jim felt very validated as a player. Also, winning a Grand Prix was huge for him.
Approach things objectively and don't tilt.
Dan Unwin, John-Paul Kelly, Ivan Schroder
Jim really values positivity.
Players try to get too smart with their cards. Instead of playing smart they set up a complicated chain that's unnecessary.
Team EXP had 7 Sealed Pools and rotated those among all the team to get fresh perspectives.
Snacks and water.
No matter how good you want to be, remember you're playing a game and you.
Twitter:@ForceOfWilks
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Lukas Blohon returns to the show after increasing his already impressive record. He now has 7 Grand Prix top 8s including 2 wins and 2 Pro Tour top 8s. Lukas lives in Prague, Czech Republic. His first appearance on the MTG Pro Tutor podcast was episode 61.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Lukas Blohon when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep219
Lukas now plays Magic full time. He produces content for Hareruya and plays.
After locking Platinum, Lukas decided to make the leap.
Breaking up Magic times with other activities helps Lukas focus better.
Lukas played in the Modern event and remembers a loss he had. After 4 days of solid Magic, Lukas missed an onboard manland and his opponent won when Lukas was favored.
Playing too fast. People don't think their whole turn through.
Playing an auto pilot. Lukas does it in practice and wants to get better.
Play one match at a time.
Twitter:@LukasBlohon
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Allen Wu is a Master's student at Stanford University where he studies Management Science and Engineering. He broke onto the Pro Tour by winning an MTGO PTQ 3 seasons in a row. His best results are 2 Grand Prix top 8's with 1 win and going 10-6 in the last 3 Pro Tours. Allen lives in Mountain View, CA.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Allen Wu when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep218
Invasion
Time Spiral
Vendilion clique
Allen played a lot and got better by accident :)
At a Pro Tour, playing against Mike Sigrist, Allen missed a play that would have won him the game. He missed out on qualifying for 2 more Pro Tour.
Winning his first MTGO PTQ.
"Magic has improved my critical thinking."
Legacy
There are so many decisions and decks learn from every game.
Making great friends has been a fantastic side effect of playing Magic.
Playing too scared. Players pump the brakes when they shouldn't. You have to read how your opponents have been playing and surmise what they don't have.
Play a lot of Magic Online and get a group to play test.
Hangout with friends between rounds. Make sure you're having fun.
Record your games and watch them.
Watch videos and pause as you go talk with friends.
Twitter:@lhefriel
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Tyrell Wheeler is the first Pro Tutor Prodigy listener turned guest! He has been playing Magic since Revised and has one Pro Tour top 16. Tyrell lives in Vancouver, Canada.
Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Tyrell Wheeler when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep217
Time Spiral
Time walk
Don't know the proper playing of Magic when in an autopilot.
He lost his backpack including his deck and some of his personal belongings the night before the event.
Qualifying for the Pro Tour even though his life gets busy and played Magic on and off.
He could repeat other people's process to success so being mindful. Practice does not make perfect but perfect practice makes perfect.
Sealed deck.
Players just talking with everybody and setting down to play. People need to put the mental energy into thinking about what the best plays. Keep in touch with your monologue, ask questions why that this happened and internalize the game.
Watching Limited videos, ask pieces of advice from mentors, watching Magic matches once a week, get practice, think some plan and strategy and have confidence.
Have big meals, eat salad, apple, banana, drink enough water, bring paper, pens, tokens, dice, etc.
Mindfully think through the games and adapt else' process that is so much better than you.
Tyrell can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.
Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.
Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com
Magic Story is the audio presentation of Uncharted Realms, the weekly Daily MTG column that tells the lore behind Magic: The Gathering.
This episode is brought to life by voice actors, a composer, and a sound designer all of the highest caliber.
Credits:
Austin Schumacher (Narrator)
T Katz (Arlinn Kord)
Nathan Ondrecek (Archmage Reeves / Archmage Rembert / Cathar Leighton / Male Cathars)
Kaitlyn Lavo (Olaylie / Mad Angel / Female Cathars)
Miriam Penrod (Boy)
Nathaniel Drew (Composer of the original score)
Ansh Rajput (Chief sound designer)
Brian Lang (Cover art)
Shaun Penrod (Executive Producer)