Due to the competitive nature of tournaments, we recommend that parents discuss topics such as winning and losing, handling the pressures of competition, and good sportsmanship with their children. It is important to be a good sport, win or lose.
First and foremost, Pokémon tournaments should be fun for all who participate.
It is also important that competitors understand their responsibilities in preparing for the event. Competitors will need a legal deck or team built to meet the regulations for that event. The format of the tournament will be provided well in advance by the Tournament Organizer and noted on the Play! Pokémon website.
If a child is new to the game or new to tournaments, try to show up early, and ask a Judge to look over the deck or team prior to the event. Judges will be happy to provide this service for your child, and it will help to ensure a pleasant experience. Arriving early will also ensure that the Tournament Organizer has time to answer any questions that you may have and better prepare your child for the upcoming event.
It is very important that competitors listen to the Tournament Organizer and/or Judge when they make their announcements at the beginning of the tournament. The Tournament Organizer or Judge will outline important points, such as how to report the match scores, where pairing and standing information will be posted, how to call a Judge, and other pertinent information at the beginning of the tournament.
Competitors should understand that even if they are familiar with this information, they need to listen and refrain from disrupting. All competitors should have the same opportunity to learn and understand the rules of play prior to an event.
You can learn more about Play! Pokémon events on our About Play! Pokémon page.