Disqualifications at Magic: the Gathering Worlds 2009 Rome

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According to an update on Magic: the Gathering Worlds 2009 Rome, three players were disqualified from the draft portion of day two.  The reason?  “Hidden Information Violation” for “looking at other players cards during the drafting process.”  The players who received the disqualifications were: Basam Tabet, Jasar Elarar, and John Boutin.

Because Magic: the Gathering Worlds 2009 Rome is a team event, their teammates also suffered the consequence of not being able to continue participating in the tournament.

What is the lesson you should take from this?

Always be very careful while drafting to not to look at an opponent’s cards.  Just looking at the way one of the players you are drafting with is shuffling their cards can result in a disqualification.

At many hobby stores, drafts are in a more relaxed environment - however at a professional level such as a Grand Prix, Pro Tour, or Worlds (the highest professional Magic: the Gathering event there is), this is not acceptable.  By adhearing to the rules at your local gamestore, you will not run into trouble at higher level events, even if it is just the next PTQ.

Has reading this article made you want to play?  Visit one of the places to play Magic in Boston, or play Magic Online.

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