Hola there Judges,

This week our online-magazine will bring the spotlights over a Mexican judge, Dalibor Trnka. He is not just a successful magic player but also a great Judge, and a prolific mentor too!
Dalibor recently worked as the Judge manager for GP Mexico where his hard-work, enthusiasm, and impressive hard-working spirit managed to make #GPTACOS one of the best events ever!

Name: Dalibor Trnka Level: 2
Location: Mexico City
Judge start date : 5 years since I became a judge.  I reached level 2 at GP Mexico 2012(March).
Why did you become a judge? I wanted to learn more about the game and become more involved with the game.

Occupation: Student
Favourite card: Lead the stampede Favourite formateck: Team Sealed
Favourite non-Magic Game: Command & Conquer
Best tournament result: Top 50 PT Nagoya
Random fact about yourself: I’m Mexican and Czech, but don’t speak Czech.

Tell us an embarrassing story that you’re not afraid of everyone knowing.
When I traveled to PT Montreal/GP Quebec my carry-on was too big, so they offered me to put it with my bags, when we arrived, the door was locked and they told me I could pick it after immigration… Of course I had my passport in there so I arrived to the customs saying “Hello, I don’t have my passport”.

How did you get involved in magic in the first place?
MANY years ago, my dad bought me a magazine that had Spore Frog as a gift inside.  Years later when I visited my best friend for first time he had some cards and so everything began.

How has being a judge influenced your non-Magic life?
It definitely has, yes; I try to use my judge experience in real life which has given great results.

You were nominated by Jesus Christian Cruz Acono. He said that you are his mentor and the “best teacher”. What do you think makes a judge a great teacher? What is most rewarding to you about being a mentor? 
I really try to focus on my candidates, I try to “enter their mind” and see where they have problems, lack or doubts. Then I can help them have it easier, which never is a easy process. The best part of this is seeing them grown and become great judges, so they inspire me to continue my process of mentoring.

What motivates you to continue being a judge?
Judging at tournaments makes me really happy, but the travels, getting to know people, and see old friends are probably the best parts.

What is one tip you have for other judges?
Never give up!

What’s the best part about your local Magic community?
Spending a full day with my friends is the best part, no matter if I play or judge I’m always excited when that day arrives.

What is your favourite non-magic hobby?
Strategy games.

What is your favourite non-judging moment that happened with other judges?
Magic World Cup 2013, as I knew most of the floor judges and as I was playing, I really enjoyed the experience.

What’s the biggest rule-breaking play you’ve ever made as a player?
Bribery 🙁 , on my first ever Prerelease I didn’t know it was illegal to offer something in exchange for a result, so I learned in the worst way.

What has been your favourite magic event that you’ve judged?
GP Mexico 2014, because I was Judge Manager and on the other side I knew 70% of the players/judges at the venue.

What positive aspects has the Judge Program contributed to your everyday life?
Improving myself is really important, and it’s something you learn about when you don’t know a ruling or you make a mistake. It’s really important to learn from mistakes, as in real life.

How do you have fun during events?
It isn’t really hard! Just answer some question, see some games or chat with other judges makes everything go smooth.

Proudest moment of your Judge life?
Becoming L2 was the best moment ever, hope soon the new one will be attaining L3.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I want to thank all the judges who have helped me in my judging process specially Damian Hiller.

Two Truths and a Lie
Two of the following statements about Dalibor are true, and one is false. Figure out which!

1.My second name is “Jose”
2.I have played in tournaments in 3 countries.
3.I have traveled more than 100k miles only to attend Magic events.

Once again thanks to Dalibor for your time that made this interview possible!

And for you judges, don’t miss the opportunity to give your colleagues recognition for their excellent job. Hope to see you next time when the spotlight shines down once again to showcase another Judge of the Week!

Written by Aaron Rasmussen and Nemesio Bolaños Gutiérrez