In this wave, we will continue to feature some highlights of the Exemplar nominations received by judges in our region.

Stay tuned to this blog or to the Europe-East Magic Judges Facebook group to read more features, today we present…

Elias Chountalas

Elias is currently a level 2 judge from Greece, who has found the ideal way to combine his legal career and the love of law with his favorite game. After indulging in all kinds of gaming innuendos over the years, he was lured into the idea of judging by Prillaman’s voice on MtgCast, deciding ​to give back to the community and shape up his karma. He takes particular pleasure in providing cynical life advice and teaching zen judging techniques to novice judges.

Elias received 4 nominations in Wave 10, let’s have a look at them.

Giorgos Magganiotis had this to say about Elias:
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Elia i have told you many times in person that not only you are a real asset for our community but also you are someone one can rely on. You started the greek judge blog (which is amazing), you run some PPTQs per season and in parallel you are always present when someone needs you. I really dont understand how you are doing it considering your full time demanding job you have. In any case i wanna say a big thank you for being there for the community and always tries your best to both grow it and deepen it.[/cets_callout_box] Kreon Tseroulis had this to say about Elias:
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I want to thank you for helping me out during a personal crisis. You and Giorgos stepped up and took over my judging duties while giving me personal support that helped me get through things. Without you there would have been many problems this season.[/cets_callout_box] David de la Iglesia had this to say about Elias:
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It takes very little to make a mistake, but it takes a lot to be brave enough to admit it, be open to receive help, and learn from the feedback you receive. Giving a wrong ruling that has such a high impact on players is no small feat. I understand where your mistake came from, and that this was a difficult episode for you, but I strongly believe you’re a better judge after it. It is exemplary how you were able to recover from it and improve in the process. Keep it up!

[/cets_callout_box] Elli Eirini Osmantzikidou had this to say about Elias:
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During the winter 2017 conference at Athens, you suggested the idea of creating a localised site about rulings and changes that was targeted at the players. This proved to be a great success. You helped the community of magic as a whole,encouraging the judges to write articles and learn the rules better for themselves as well as teaching the players. Thank you for that.

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Congratulations Elias and thank you for your unreserved involvement in the local community !