tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32466126240827251382024-03-06T00:51:31.678-05:00Pokemon League of Western North CarolinaThe official blog for the Western North Carolina Pokemon League in Asheville! We meet at Hillside Games every Saturday from 4PM-8PM!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-51903673748615229222011-10-31T21:41:00.000-04:002011-10-31T21:42:20.482-04:00This site will no longer be updated.Pokemon League is still played at Hillside Games off of Tunnel Road every Saturday at 4:00PM. But this site will no longer be updated.Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-46211306326181016212010-10-31T00:52:00.000-04:002010-10-31T00:52:59.428-04:00Pokemon HGSS: Triumphant Releases November 3rd!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyxTv-2IHmysrdjrbtFvgJOcLaXRmRLp-Hin4V3Tz82ZDIhb8lMbo6yf9dRAXYY26qRh6jeHOy3WiUIQ9m2-fWIXvV6znoGWZWq4Ya73dJojnARrFhiTrOicGseZX9pDC5VlD8aRlxg/s1600/hgss4_booster1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyxTv-2IHmysrdjrbtFvgJOcLaXRmRLp-Hin4V3Tz82ZDIhb8lMbo6yf9dRAXYY26qRh6jeHOy3WiUIQ9m2-fWIXvV6znoGWZWq4Ya73dJojnARrFhiTrOicGseZX9pDC5VlD8aRlxg/s1600/hgss4_booster1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="cms extraRightMargin"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzZeo653qt1_e3_T0KTfJKxqHJKWfpJSM-PEzBU8SZbdRTIH9Ci1UW2-G9U__vEmmA4KBd5UC1KAOTPdceKZYABPRryukEvVTTLY0_nx2LypcsrmclLrX6ztwyeONhLEy0FIqQhqXHQ/s1600/HGSS4_EN_97.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzZeo653qt1_e3_T0KTfJKxqHJKWfpJSM-PEzBU8SZbdRTIH9Ci1UW2-G9U__vEmmA4KBd5UC1KAOTPdceKZYABPRryukEvVTTLY0_nx2LypcsrmclLrX6ztwyeONhLEy0FIqQhqXHQ/s1600/HGSS4_EN_97.jpg" /></a>Battle for the excitement, for the challenge...and for the victory! In the Pokémon Trading Card Game: <em>HS—Triumphant</em> expansion, you'll find what you need to put triumph within your reach. Dialga and Palkia combine as an incredible Pokémon LEGEND. Machamp, Gengar, and a half-dozen other powerful Pokémon appear for the first time as Pokémon Prime Cards. New Trainer, Supporter, and Stadium cards-plus a new Special Energy card-give you new strategies and deck ideas. The only thing missing is a Trainer who battles to win...and that's you!<br />
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With more than 100 cards, the brand-new Pokémon TCG: <em>HS—Triumphant</em> expansion is perfect for beginner and intermediate Pokémon TCG players of all ages! Packaged with a holographic treatment, two theme decks—each including one guaranteed foil card—will arrive in stores nationwide on November 3, 2010!<br />
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<strong>Features of the new Pokémon TCG: <em>HS—Triumphant</em> expansion:</strong><br />
<ul class="standard"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4b-ljNaRa7Bcrn8UH5NVaYaBNGD0TcH7AX6W-zqrn0wrtZxspmrQenV8u2lLJB1B1ALIr7w3v0yRZBaINycmY33r6bwR6kevyMQDAu_hkrjQFpwKbK852sKqdn-AE7sw4sZTfsNjZdw/s1600/HGSS4_EN_85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4b-ljNaRa7Bcrn8UH5NVaYaBNGD0TcH7AX6W-zqrn0wrtZxspmrQenV8u2lLJB1B1ALIr7w3v0yRZBaINycmY33r6bwR6kevyMQDAu_hkrjQFpwKbK852sKqdn-AE7sw4sZTfsNjZdw/s1600/HGSS4_EN_85.jpg" /></a>
<li>Legendary Pokémon come back in pairs as LEGEND cards—Dialga & Palkia and Darkrai & Cresselia!</li>
<li>Amazing new Pokémon Prime cards that include Celebi, Machamp, and Gengar!</li>
<li>New theme decks, Verdant Frost and Royal Guard that let players send shivers down their opponents' spines while unleashing devastating attacks with incredibly powerful Pokémon!</li>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-40453999490478314792010-10-16T01:24:00.000-04:002010-10-16T01:24:29.886-04:00New Pokemon Combo Packs at Target!I think it's important that players know which products are the best to buy, because there are so many different Pokemon TCG products on the market that a player can easily get ripped off if they buy a product that has really old cards in it, or could have bought another product for a lower price that offered more. In the future, when I hear about cool new Pokemon TCG products, I'm going to make it my goal to communicate to all the League Members about them so that we can all take advantage of them.<br />
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This is a brand new item. Some may call it a "blister pack" because the pack is wrapped in cardboard, but to simplify the name, I'll just call it a "Combo Pack" because it comes with multiple things.<br />
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These Combo Packs come with 1 Pokemon Booster from Supreme Victors or Rising Rivals and either Charizard (and Charmeleon and Charmander) from Supreme Victors or Metagross (and Metang and Beldum) from Supreme Victors. The Combo Pack retails for $4.99. Both Charizard and Metagross have the cool Confetti foil-style look.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtk_J8xfsRi0SFwIT6AeU-BaA-1Og4W2jRiRxHYWvdIH1rusKUS0R8o3gbeGsSKumG0nKmgpVmpvql2wFFKpVli-ze_VYHVfamrnL9MjT_9fN2d9VgGf9X5qH7gFXANp3A_YzUaPeaNw/s1600/blisters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtk_J8xfsRi0SFwIT6AeU-BaA-1Og4W2jRiRxHYWvdIH1rusKUS0R8o3gbeGsSKumG0nKmgpVmpvql2wFFKpVli-ze_VYHVfamrnL9MjT_9fN2d9VgGf9X5qH7gFXANp3A_YzUaPeaNw/s200/blisters.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
The Charizard is a really good card and has seen play at Battle Roads and larger events in the past. The Metagross has it's uses.<br />
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It's a really good deal because packs already retail for around $4-5 to begin with, and you're getting a cool foil card with the lower stages so you can play the card easier. I'm thinking of picking up 4 Charizard ones so that I can make a Charizard deck with them! <br />
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I'm not sure if the Target in Asheville has these yet, but I've read of many Targets having them, so there is a good shot ours does.<br />
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Enjoy!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-80295940536376615392010-10-11T17:27:00.000-04:002010-10-11T17:27:39.461-04:00Sign Up for Player Rewards!If you haven't already, it's still a good time to sign up for Player Rewards. The more members who are signed up for Player Rewards, the more prizes the Pokemon League gets to give out! It's not very hard to sign up for Player Rewards, and I've just made a new How-To-Sign Up for Player Rewards using plenty of pictures to help make it easier. This new step-by-step guide can be found on a new page located right below the banner, or you can click on the link <a href="http://wncpokemon.blogspot.com/p/how-to-sign-up-for-player-rewards.html">here</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdOlCXPb7xe0UdniNSPE0a1zj7MXX86C0cdpFPCWefu_fk70vhwcsjhzrM02Zg8RSTdylhK3SAYW5tqGxHmHBJsWgC9RPoAp328btskaQsUlV0WyJkMvMeUwdo8NrWX5c5Ql5gLzRGA/s1600/NewSitePage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdOlCXPb7xe0UdniNSPE0a1zj7MXX86C0cdpFPCWefu_fk70vhwcsjhzrM02Zg8RSTdylhK3SAYW5tqGxHmHBJsWgC9RPoAp328btskaQsUlV0WyJkMvMeUwdo8NrWX5c5Ql5gLzRGA/s1600/NewSitePage.jpg" /></a></div><br />
If you have any questions or concerns, please e-mail me at matthewriddle (at) charter (dot) net. Thanks!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-27553709728223265912010-10-04T22:30:00.004-04:002010-10-11T17:30:52.863-04:00Creating a Deck"What is your deck?" "60 cards."<br />
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Unfortunately, this type of response is all too common in real life, and it reflects that one does not have a competitive Pokemon deck. Of course, very few people say this out loud, but they may as well. It is just a fact that most people have difficulty creating a deck which has the qualities necessary to win consistently and at a high level. As a league member and leader, I often see this. Even at tournaments, folks bring decks that are really just fun.<br />
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Now, you might ask, "What's wrong with that?" Not a thing... if you never want to compete but only mess around. If you are only in it for fun, you don't have to read any further. But if you are seeking to improve your lot, win more games, and maybe take home a trophy once in a while, take a look at what I have to say.<br />
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I have come up with nine (9) elements which constitute a good deck, and I now share this with you. My credentials? I have won a few tournaments and have some glass (trophies) to prove it. I'm not bragging, but only letting you know that I know what I'm talking about. My goal? To help you.<br />
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<code><a name='more'></a></code> <br />
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THE ELEMENTS<br />
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(1) Set-up. What kind of a deck doesn't set up? A slow deck. A losing deck. A frustrating deck. Sound familiar? What can you do about this? You must do two things.<br />
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First, make your deck more consistent (see #2 below).<br />
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Second, you have to have enough search and draw cards. What are the best choices? In the current (legal) format, you can count on one card: Uxie. Its Poke-Power says it all: "Set Up." Get it, learn it, use it. Two or three per deck. If you can get your hands on Uxie Lv.X, it makes your deck super-consistent, offering by Poke-Power "Trade Off", which is a Pokedex every turn. What else? Poke-Power Pokemon are nice to have, and Claydol was the best (RIP), so you might add a Noctowl or Dodrio line. I am currently testing Dusknoir SF1. You also need Supporters: I recommend 3 Poke Collector in every deck. For SP and SableLock decks, 4 Cyrus' Conspiracy. For Stage 1 and Stage 2 decks, at least 3 Bebe's with a few Poke Communication as well. I recommend at least 2 draw or refresh cards, such as Volkner, Underground Expedition, or Copycat. It's good to have 1 Cynthia's Feelings also. Some people like Poke-Drawer, for its obvious superiority, but the recent spate of anti-Trainer decks (Gengar-Vileplume, Spiritomb starts, and Dialga G) makes that a bit more risky.<br />
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You need to test your deck for its set-up capability. How often do you get a "god hand" opening? How often do you have a crisis of search during the game? One of the best decks for set-up is SP, simply because easy searchability and other benefits. Another is SableLock. Stage 2 decks are the hardest to set up, with Lv.X requiring more effort. The easier it is to set up your deck, the faster you will begin to attack/defend and win. Naturally, all good players have good set-up in their decks, so it becomes imperative at that point to find an edge.<br />
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(2) Consistency. What kind of deck is not consistent? One which wins here, loses there. One which acts very differently from game to game. Remember, in competition, you're not looking for lots of surprises from your own deck. In fact, the more boring it is, the better you're doing! But I don't mean boring as in "My deck sucks" but "My deck is so consistent that I can play it in my sleep and still win."<br />
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When you build a deck, you are conceivably using excellent cards. If that's true, why would you dilute your effectiveness by having two strategies in the same deck? If the strategy is good, the cards which make that strategy good should be maximized. For example, if you play Machamp, you want to have at LEAST a 3-2-3-1 (Basic-Stage 1-Stage 2-Lv.X) line, if not a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3-1. Why would you go with 3-2-3-1 instead of 4-3-3-1? Only if 3-2-3-1 was super-consistent, allowing you to add more Set-Up, or special Tech (cards that usually cover a weakness of the main strategy; for Machamp, which is weak to Psychic, Gengar and Nidoqueen have been used as Tech; Machamp also needs its Level.X, so more retrieval is good in this deck; these are Tech).<br />
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Not only should you maximize your main line, but also your main Trainer skeleton. For Machamp, you should build with 3 Poke Collector, 3-4 Bebe, 2-3 Poke-Communication, 4 Rare Candy, 2-3 Broken Time Space stadium, 2 Warp Points, 2 Premier Ball, 1 Palmer's, and 2-3 Draw/Refresh cards. You also should include 2-3 Spiritomb, 2-3 Uxie (and Lv.X preferred). For Energy, you need at least 8 Fighting, 2-3 Double Colorless, and 2 Call Energy is not bad either. That is a skeleton, and is consistent. It is also somewhat interchangeable with other Stage 2 decks, as many of the cards will serve the same purpose in, say, Kingdra.<br />
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The more you make thin lines (for example, 2-2 Scizor, 1-1 Shaymin, 1-1-1 Bellossom), the more you can expect failure from your deck. However, simply making thick lines won't do it.<br />
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(3) Winning Method. A deck needs to be a winner. This depends on many elements, but there is only one simple rule here: the deck must win more often than it loses, and versus very good decks and players. You simply can't walk into a tournament with thick lines and good setup and expect to do better than 50%. Many players have thick lines and good setup. What is <span style="font-style: italic;">your </span>advantage?<br />
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Honestly, it doesn't matter why a deck wins as long as it does. If you want to analyze why it wins, that's nice but not necessary. For example, SP wins a LOT because it has many advantages, and even mediocre players can do well with it at tournaments as long as they have a well-built SP deck. SableLock is simple in concept also, but is somewhat more complicated to play, so less players mess with it. Machamp owns SP and Sablelock, but is hard to get just right, so it also isn't common. Gengar also has multiple advantages. Do you see a pattern? It is that some decks just destroy other decks. So, you need to know your metagame (what players in your local area generally play - see below).<br />
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Winning is also dependent on your passion for your deck, and (really) its passion for you. Some people love Jumpluff, some hate it. This apples to all decks. Find what you like to play and play it. But... if your deck hates you even if you love it, drop it. You may think Steelix is super, and you may see other players do well with it, but if you're not winning with it, change to something else. For example, I love to play Machamp, and it works for me. One day, I decided to test against SP, thinking nothing of it. I ended up loving SP, and it loves me back, helping me at various tournaments.<br />
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(4) Highest Ability. What's the most damage you can do in one turn? Look at Typhlosion, which can do 120 damage for 3 Energy. Or Machamp, which can do 120 for 2 Energy if you roll 4 heads. Luxray Lv.X can do 60 damage for 1 Energy and 1 Energy Gain. Clearly, these are superior attacks. Every situation is different, but in general you want to have Pokemon which have a wicked highest ability. Sableye, for example, can "donk" on Turn 1 - that's a high ability. Pair Sableye with Garchomp C Lv.X, and you have two heavyweights that compliment each other (thus, SableLock). But Sableye has other tricks, such as being able to get a Supporter and play it on Turn 1, the current deckmaster's choice being Cyrus's Initiative, which can decimate the opponent's deck (thus, the lock). Do you doubt me? SableLock won Nationals this year.<br />
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Some cards have high ability, but you just can't count on them. Many require coin flips to get the high ability, which is normally not a very consistent thing to count on. Others need their Poke-Powers, which can be shut down in various ways, or on Poke-Bodies, which are in peril by a very popular Dialga G Lv.X currently.<br />
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(5) Power Lock. How do you get around it? What if your opponent plays 4 Mesprit LA (Palkia Lock deck)? What about Power Spray? You must consider this if you want to be able to set up, be consistent, and have your highest ability available.<br />
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Since Power Spray is more common, you only need to be concerned about an early string of them. Get past that, and you might win handily.. maybe. If you have a Stage 2, or even a Stage 1 deck, Spiritomb AR is your boy. It helps you set up with Darkness Grace, and disallows Power Spray from play due to its Poke-Body. Of course, it stops you from playing Trainers also, but that's the trade. Gengar SF with Spiritomb is a good and deadly combination.<br />
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(6) Body Lock. As already mentioned, Dialga G Lv.X cancels Poke-Bodies which are not SP. It's common, but not overbearing.. yet. Just remember that you take a chance every time you rely heavily upon Poke-Bodies.<br />
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(7) Low Energy to High Damage Ratio. Why didn't I just say this already? Basically, because most people know this is good, whereas they don't know as much about other elements I have discussed.<br />
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Machamp. Kingdra. Jumpluff. Gengar. These all use 1 Energy and offer a high ability for it. That's why they are called "top-tier" decks. Nevertheless, they have suffered by the rotation of Roseanne's Research, which was the one Supporter that made such decks super-playable. Without Roseanne's, it is difficult for many decks to get that Energy necessary. SP and SableLock, on the other hand, have Cyrus's Conspiracy, and so have a great advantage in the current format. Scizor Prime can sort of count of Skarmory for Energy attachment, and Steelix can kinda count on itself, but these are not the best substitutes for consistent and simple search-attach options.<br />
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On the other hand, given Kingdra or Feraligatr, Kingdra is superior even with Feraligatr's Poke-Power. In the first place, Power Spray. In the second place, you need Energy in hand. In the third place, Spray Splash. In the fourth place, retreat cost. So, you see, there is Energy cost and there is Energy cost.<br />
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(8) Comeback. Look, the truth is that no matter how well you play you will eventually come to a time when you are behind on prizes. Do you fold? For some decks, that is the only option. High-Energy decks are likely not going to come back against Low-Energy decks which have a substantial lead. Yes, it is mostly about Energy. Face it: 1-Energy can be achieved quickly, and repeatedly; multiple-Energy cannot.. at least, not consistently.<br />
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Now, if it's a battle between low-Energy decks, how can you come back? This is where Tech comes in. Perhaps you have a secret weapon to counter your opponent's main attacker, and quickly. For example, SP is behind in prizes against Machamp. It looks hopeless, but wait... Double Colorless Energy on Uxie X, Lucario GL in play, drop the Crobat, and take the Machamp. Opponent tries to use Uxie, but SP drops the Power Spray - denied! With no setup, Machamp passes, and SP then is able to set up a Garchomp C Lv.X for another prize. Do this, gain the edge, and climb back to even, before you pull out the victory! Yeah! Nothing better in any game or sport than the big comeback. Your deck should have this capability.<br />
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(9) Matchups. This is the metagame. Who plays what, where, and why? Let's look at the current spectrum, and do matchups against LuxChomp (SP).<br />
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Jumpluff: A powerful card. Without Claydol and Roseanne, it has real trouble vs. SP.<br />
Machamp: SP can look forward to a hard time, unless SP sets up faster, or Machamp stalls.<br />
DialgaChomp: Fairly even, but DialgaChomp players are getting feisty.<br />
Gengar/Vileplume: If SP can't play trainers, it loses. This can go either way based on speed.<br />
Gyarados: Generally a win for SP, Luxray GL doing the main work.<br />
Donphan: On paper, Donphan wins easily. In practice, Donphan isn't that great.<br />
Charizard: For the most part, easy.<br />
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This matchup list is only a sample, and very oversimplifed. Decks change with each new set release, so the matchups change also. Furthermore, it depends on Tech, your opponent's skill, and LUCK!<br />
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Well, kids, that's it. If you follow these general rules, think about what you're building, and stay focused, you will do very well.Tommy Maxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088641256533291465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-29504895424714795962010-09-23T12:55:00.002-04:002010-09-23T12:57:29.004-04:00Battle Roads - A BIG SUCCESS!We had <span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><b>34</b></span> people for the <u>first Premier Event for 2010-2011</u>! That's almost <b>double</b> what we have had for the last half of the year!<br />
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Everyone who showed up, <span style="background-color: purple; color: orange;">thank you so much</span>! Even those who showed up late and had to take a first round loss, your attendance is still so very much appreciated!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii29yjnOEMFqwrpjCpDLYrtMx4XMK4CpdXndc_Bz1AdEZA2sbuU5YNCBtOqh4oPlZchkUXyhkDG07AgL60b_xuXQGkrfYc5Uy53VkKXU4DzyZxpPQPe9Igv0K4EWNQAnCXWHieeaBn0w/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii29yjnOEMFqwrpjCpDLYrtMx4XMK4CpdXndc_Bz1AdEZA2sbuU5YNCBtOqh4oPlZchkUXyhkDG07AgL60b_xuXQGkrfYc5Uy53VkKXU4DzyZxpPQPe9Igv0K4EWNQAnCXWHieeaBn0w/s200/images.jpeg" width="162" /></a>Everyone who wanted to show up but couldn't, let's try to make it next time! :D<br />
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Thank you everyone for supporting the event, and with every event that is supported by our members, there is faith that our area will see even more events. That means that there could be more new players, and the league could grow as well! So, let's keep trying to support the events!<br />
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I hope everyone had fun, and a big round of applause to Jeanette for judging!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-61333319497522136262010-09-23T12:48:00.001-04:002010-09-23T12:49:30.500-04:002010-2011 League Details!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_ZTl3ipydNbbVmSxUn4o20MvNhuQP9jX6eRvHFnO3Ior0Xpujj_tF3RWO_tTX0C7vhZDnW_VywubZZ7UKuj8slydgyyZif01DV2jgeOtpojzR-ufiDu7W4tfn4iBUhUyoPKvcBGphg/s1600/league_logo_2011_lrg.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_ZTl3ipydNbbVmSxUn4o20MvNhuQP9jX6eRvHFnO3Ior0Xpujj_tF3RWO_tTX0C7vhZDnW_VywubZZ7UKuj8slydgyyZif01DV2jgeOtpojzR-ufiDu7W4tfn4iBUhUyoPKvcBGphg/s200/league_logo_2011_lrg.png" width="175" /></a></div>New details about the new year of Pokemon League are available!<br />
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As you can see, there is a new logo for the Pokemon League! Also, these year's theme is Poke-Athlon Cycle!<br />
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The Promos for the first few seasons are:<br />
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Season 1: Donphan HS and <b>Spiritomb AR</b><br />
Season 2: Crobat UL and <b>Expert Belt AR</b><br />
Season 3: Delibird HS and <b>Azelf LA</b><br />
Season 4: Steelix UL and Special Metal Energy<br />
Season 5: Houndoom UD and Special Dark Energy<br />
Each season lasts 5 weeks.<br />
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One change is that it will now takes 8 points to earn a promo, instead of the 6 points needed last year. You can still earn points on the Video Game track to earn Video Game accessories.<br />
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Spiritomb is a very good card to help search out evolutions, but watch out that it's Poke-Body stops both players from using non-supporter, non-stadium trainers.<br />
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Expert Belt is useful in many decks as it increases the HP and attack of a Pokemon by 20, but any Pokemon it is attached to is worth 2 prizes!<br />
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Azelf lets you look at your prizes with a cool Poke-Power!<br />
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<a href="http://www.pokemon.com/us/organized-play/leagues/">http://www.pokemon.com/us/organized-play/leagues/</a>Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-37178776052468451012010-09-11T23:25:00.000-04:002010-09-11T23:25:19.143-04:00Battle Road Event Next Week!Sorry for the short notice, but a week from today (Saturday, 9/11), Hillside Games will be hosting a Battle Road event!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b>Registration</b>: 11AM <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-DlMuI4l6i0t7V6mxH95mjKULmTj5rlbu4a06YWy2xKPQ-5_wFHYeHx8j5BltAiRllKVp6-9sSEQm473yXwEHkrczMiB-SVxNFZSBwlen8_Fa0pxP55LRF2oCVIAicBUTddUomnFeA/s1600/POP_ChampSeries_Logo_100px.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-DlMuI4l6i0t7V6mxH95mjKULmTj5rlbu4a06YWy2xKPQ-5_wFHYeHx8j5BltAiRllKVp6-9sSEQm473yXwEHkrczMiB-SVxNFZSBwlen8_Fa0pxP55LRF2oCVIAicBUTddUomnFeA/s320/POP_ChampSeries_Logo_100px.gif" /></a></div><b>Requirements</b>: 60-card modified-legal deck<br />
<b>Entry Fee</b>: FREE<br />
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There will be a raffle!<br />
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We'd really like to see everyone show up and have fun!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-6897474041648851172010-08-12T17:40:00.000-04:002010-08-12T17:40:28.258-04:00Pre-Release coming soon!The Pre-Release is this weekend! To make it short, here are some tips:<br />
<ul><li>Arrive on time. Registration is from 11-Noon and the tournament will start right afterward. Registration takes no time as all you do is pay your money, get your 6 packs, sleeves, promo (and possibly raffle ticket). No deck lists, no deck check.</li>
<li>Use your sleeves to protect your 40-card deck. People may want to trade for some of your cards and it's important to keep them in the best shape possible. Playing with an unsleeved deck will damage the cards and lower the value of them.</li>
<li>When making a 40-card deck, try to keep your different types to a limit. You don't usually have enough pokemon of the same type to make a one-type deck, so you'll have to combine multiple types. Colorless pokemon or pokemon with colorless attack costs are really nice at pre-releases.</li>
<li>Consider all trainers you get, because your deck won't have all the supporters and trainers in it like your regular league deck will. So, even cards with a tiny affect can be very useful.</li>
<li>Evolutions are important. Sometimes there are big basic pokemon that can dish out some good damage and take it back, but a lot of the time the battles come down to who can evolve their pokemon and do the bigger damage. So if you get an evolution line, and it fits your wanted energy type, definitely consider using it. Even if it's not your favorite pokemon, you want your deck to be strong.</li>
<li>Don't spend too much time looking at your cards. You will only have a limited time to build a deck, and you really don't have enough time to get up, chat with friends, and build a deck at the same time. Pokemon League (should) be going on after the tournament is over and that is a great time to show everyone your amazing cards.</li>
<li>Remember, to build your 40 card deck, you cannot trade any cards with anyone. You're welcome to trade the cards you don't make your deck out of, but the whole challenge is making a deck out of the cards just you pull out of your packs. Trading with other players ruins the fun of the format.</li>
</ul>The last tip is to have fun! That is what Pre-Releases are all about. You don't have to worry about winning or losing because everyone gets the same prizes (2 more packs of cards) at the very end.<br />
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Let's show the tournament organizer some love for running Asheville's first ever Pre-Release!<br />
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Good luck this Saturday everyone!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-42598538405700282082010-08-04T18:44:00.009-04:002010-08-04T19:32:23.644-04:00Play! Pokemon announced!<div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAg6hmxQ8K-McGK9MFVs0gxRIy0_zu-jkmcF35Kbt5seYXs-mEL9fbAi3vAla38oH0GlSh9t6JbgjhAnPsJtJ1ywTJi0EzWzkrhXIpO6sc4iZOyhGvGjOA0au-6F-ZMkTjXVp1odjNNQ/s1600/normal_500x_play.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAg6hmxQ8K-McGK9MFVs0gxRIy0_zu-jkmcF35Kbt5seYXs-mEL9fbAi3vAla38oH0GlSh9t6JbgjhAnPsJtJ1ywTJi0EzWzkrhXIpO6sc4iZOyhGvGjOA0au-6F-ZMkTjXVp1odjNNQ/s200/normal_500x_play.jpg" width="178" /></a></div>The Pokemon Company International unveiled the new design and branding for Organized Play. One of TPCi's staff made this comment:<br />
<blockquote>"We've updated the look and the name, to be more understandable to parents, and more welcoming to kids. For the rest of you, you get the same great program, with a cool new look." ~ Professor Dav</blockquote>I think the logo mimics the national sports league logos pretty well and I hope to see what improvements to the program TPCi decide to make.<br />
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It is confirmed that this logo will find its way onto hats, shirts, playmats, binders, and posters. I'm sure we'll see it on sleeves and deck boxes as well.<br />
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No details yet on any changes that are being made to organized play. But the new logo does look nice.<br />
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That's all for today. Remember, the first ever Pre-Release tournament is coming up in 1 week from this Saturday. Save up your money, and get ready to have some fun!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-80124648570973642492010-07-28T16:24:00.000-04:002010-07-28T16:24:19.300-04:00Bring your Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver to League this weekend!Hi Everyone!<br />
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Anyone who owns Pokemon HeartGold or SoulSilver for the DS should bring it to Pokemon League this weekend. Starting this Saturday (July 31st), Nintendo will be distributing the Enigma Stone over WiFi. The Enigma Stone allows you to encounter Latios (in HeartGold) and Latias (in SoulSilver)! After you catch the one in your game, the Enigma Stone turns into a Soul Dew which powers up both Latios and Latias abilities in battle. Hillside Games has WiFi that you can access to receive this item.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0r-E3WNOt81Zz2LVC_NZd4rjJutWkajVFPjaUvDPQ9K6TrhI7Lqsf7Wpg8Pi0JTNZ0AkB2aLaslJT91eTAidw88YvPGwMuw2cviiLrC0ymrPFU0Jv_yfIq8f1jsbjdCPz0azTBzTTA/s1600/Latias.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0r-E3WNOt81Zz2LVC_NZd4rjJutWkajVFPjaUvDPQ9K6TrhI7Lqsf7Wpg8Pi0JTNZ0AkB2aLaslJT91eTAidw88YvPGwMuw2cviiLrC0ymrPFU0Jv_yfIq8f1jsbjdCPz0azTBzTTA/s200/Latias.jpg" width="200" /></a>In order to access Latios and Latias, you need to have beaten the Elite Four, gotten the National Pokedex, and have two or fewer Wonder Cards. Even if you haven't accomplished these items now, you can still get the item to use in the future. When you encounter Latios or Latias, it will be level 40.<br />
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Also, did you know you can earn League points for battling on your DS? You most certainly can. Also, you can earn cool skins for your DS the same way you can earn promos! So, there are multiple reasons for you to bring your DS to Pokemon League.<br />
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Happy Hunting!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-22793573438418182022010-07-26T23:58:00.002-04:002010-10-11T17:31:36.799-04:00Free Pokemon Cards<b>WANT A FREE PACK OF POKEMON CARDS?</b><br />
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One of your league leaders, Tom Wise, is offering you the chance to win a free pack of Pokemon cards. Here is the offer:<br />
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If you can beat Mr. Wise in a game of Pokemon 3 times, he will buy you that pack. You do not have to win 3 in a row - you only have to win 3. Mr. Wise will keep track of your winning games and will reward you for your success. You do not have the right to argue with Mr. Wise how many games you have won - Mr. Wise will determine that and keep track of them.<br />
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<code><a name='more'></a></code> <br />
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There are two rules to this deal.<br />
<ol><li>A "game" is considered played if you have played three turns. This is to eliminate a win which is a "donk." Any game in which you have only played one or two turns before winning will not be considered a "win" for the purposes of this offer.</li>
<li>If you are a poor sport, whether a poor loser or poor winner, during your game with Mr. Wise, you will be penalized a "win" whether you win or not. So, if you win and are a poor sport, you will get your win but also have it taken away. If you lose and are a poor sport, you not only lose but you will also have a previous win taken away. Why? Because respect for each other is important. In any case, whether you agree or not, these are the rules.</li>
</ol><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYIdPCAIaEvNyKRueC-SAMz3IRVK4frOKpqtlKK09xYNUuHYr_FQZRITWQcfFcyt7RsjMSMVtL5GifpmjIE1v4CFJayh0EtNHuRrP7kdsWoLI8GsrSvzdSAJ8u6fOX3oL4ItRBG5TEg/s1600/pokemon_pack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYIdPCAIaEvNyKRueC-SAMz3IRVK4frOKpqtlKK09xYNUuHYr_FQZRITWQcfFcyt7RsjMSMVtL5GifpmjIE1v4CFJayh0EtNHuRrP7kdsWoLI8GsrSvzdSAJ8u6fOX3oL4ItRBG5TEg/s320/pokemon_pack.jpg" width="168" /></a>This offer is open to any Pokemon player who comes to our league on Saturday when Mr. Wise is present. Any game played with Mr. Wise will also count towards the regular league scoring system. So, whether you win or lose versus Mr. Wise, you still get your league points. <br />
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Mr. Wise is not limiting this offer to one pack of cards. He will buy this pack for anyone who achieves the goal, according to the rules. He will also allow a person who wins a pack to compete again for another pack. This will continue until Mr. Wise decides to end this offer. <br />
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Why is Mr. Wise doing this? Three reasons:<br />
<ol><li>He wants the players in his league to become better players. </li>
<li>He wants to play more Pokemon games at league. </li>
<li>He wants the players in his league to respect each other.</li>
</ol><br />
Some helpful hints:<br />
<ul><li>Bring your best deck. I am playing to win.</li>
<li>Don't complain when you lose.</li>
<li>Wait your turn patiently for the next available game.</li>
</ul><br />
Thanks, and happy competing.Tommy Maxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088641256533291465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-26232681301644750812010-07-26T18:17:00.000-04:002010-07-26T18:17:43.250-04:00Tools of the TradeThis will be quick. I just read a great article on a website I visit called SixPrizes (<a href="http://www.sixprizes.com/">SixPrizes.com</a>), which is a web site devoted to posting good Pokemon TCG strategy articles. The article was labeled "Tools of the Trade" and discussed the various different items new players need (or want) in order to play the game.<br />
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Check <a href="http://www.sixprizes.com/tips-and-strategy/tools-trade">it</a> out!<br />
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<a href="http://www.sixprizes.com/tips-and-strategy/tools-trade">http://www.sixprizes.com/tips-and-strategy/tools-trade</a> <br />
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If you have any questions on how to acquire some of these items, ask one of the league helpers at league and we'll try to answer any questions you have. Some items are easier to get than others.<br />
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Thanks for reading!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-62802241604124174272010-07-26T16:49:00.006-04:002010-10-11T17:31:58.507-04:00Sign up for Player Rewards!<div style="color: #351c75;"><b>*UPDATE* A Newer Version Has Been Uploaded To <a href="http://wncpokemon.blogspot.com/p/how-to-sign-up-for-player-rewards.html" style="color: blue;">Here</a> *UPDATE* </b></div><br />
Would you like to earn more free Pokemon stuff? What if I said you could earn free foil energy, promo cards, and pre-release pokemon sleeves, would you be interested now? If so, all you need to do is sign up for a Pokemon Trainer Club account and have a POP ID. How do you do it?<br />
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<code><a name='more'></a></code> <br />
<ol><li>Go to <a href="http://www.pokemon.com/">www.Pokemon.com</a></li>
<li>Click "Join the Pokemon Trainer Club Now" on the image on the top right of the web site. </li>
<li>Put in your Country and DoB and click "Next". </li>
<li>Fill in all the fields. Where it asks for your “Player ID”, put the name that is on the POP ID card that was given to you, and where it asks for your “Organized Play PIN”, put the number that is on your POP ID. Accept the terms of use by checking the box above it, and click "Submit". </li>
<li>Now you need to Activate your Account. They will send you an e-mail, so you’ll need to check your e-mail within 24 hours and follow any steps they need you to do to verify your e-mail address and activate your account. </li>
<li>Once your account is activated, there is just one last thing you need to do. Return to <a href="http://www.pokemon.com/">www.Pokemon.com</a></li>
<li>Now, click the Login button in the same place as you clicked last time. </li>
<li>It will ask you for your User Name and Password. Put them in and click Log In. </li>
<li>Right below the large word “My Profile”, you will see three tabs. Click on the tab labeled “Edit Profile”. </li>
<li>Fill in your address. They need to know where to mail your free stuff once you earn them. </li>
<li>Look under the ‘General Preferences’ area on that page and make sure the option that says “Would you like to participate in Player Rewards?” is checked. </li>
<li>When you are done, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the Submit button. </li>
<li>That’s it! You are now ready to start earning those free items! </li>
</ol>What you’ve just signed up for is called Player Rewards. Player Rewards is a free promotion organized by The Pokemon Company International, who is in charge of everything for the Pokemon TCG for North America. To be eligible for Player Rewards, you need to have a POP ID and an active Pokemon Trainer Club account. To earn rewards like foil energy, promo cards and pokemon sleeves, all you need to do is attend Pokemon League and participate in organized Pokemon tournaments. There are no fees, or requirements. Just come, play, and enjoy the Pokemon TCG and around every three months, The Pokemon Company International will mail out Player Rewards to all those who have earned them. <br />
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Not only do you get some cool free items, but the Pokemon Leagues where you are a member will be eligible for more league prizes to give out! So, it is most definitely a great thing to have a Pokemon Trainer Club account and be participating in Player Rewards.<br />
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For more information, check out this page. <a href="http://www.pokemon.com/us/organized-play/leagues/player-rewards/">http://www.pokemon.com/us/organized-play/leagues/player-rewards/</a><br />
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Thanks a lot!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-24180725208873450092010-07-18T21:15:00.004-04:002010-07-18T23:01:30.418-04:00E-Mail Updates: We need your e-mails! (Updated)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBPYk5TiVfJOa4LhkQDJioYu9Y_b2AqiTPoaGbq4Uqun2Ym-UmU-L86SCZ15fqGb2EJocUrUOVQ48foAM_8ZjqExthsJF4tgMbqwkKbz2YnnB6MB5r4KDv68nzyohHTC_un9YF0kxUA/s1600/porygon.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBPYk5TiVfJOa4LhkQDJioYu9Y_b2AqiTPoaGbq4Uqun2Ym-UmU-L86SCZ15fqGb2EJocUrUOVQ48foAM_8ZjqExthsJF4tgMbqwkKbz2YnnB6MB5r4KDv68nzyohHTC_un9YF0kxUA/s320/porygon.gif" /></a></div>If you are interested in receiving e-mail updates when the blog is updated, please e-mail me and let me know.<br />
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Thanks!<br />
<br />
<b>UPDATE:</b> Looks like there may be an easier way to stay in touch. I've added a Feedburner application to the site that allows for people to sign up for e-mail updates. Just put your e-mail in and do a few things and you will be constantly updated!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-73484027975688170932010-07-11T23:42:00.005-04:002010-07-18T23:01:17.412-04:00Upcoming Tournaments in July (Updated)Hi everyone! It's Matt again.<br />
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We have a tournament coming up in 2 weeks. Sunday, July 25th at Hillside Games. The entry fee will be $5, but don't worry, everyone will be getting a pack of cards! <b>Registration will be from 1PM-1:30PM. Try to show up early, as you may need to fill out a deck list. You will need a 60-card deck that is modified-legal. If you don't know if your deck is legal, ask one of the league helpers.</b> Jeff Reynolds, the Premier Tournament Organizer, or PTO, will be coming from around Charlotte to run this event! So, lets give Jeff our love and thanks and try to all come out for our first organized event in a long time!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6BtQFE0SeyFKWK7ZB4epE5uE13XkBy5gsnIEj2ttqKW1f6xobWgwDZE6BKFULLGuoTFfWmxJo1-qdocOjyVAuH-tKjvbrC9K-eTYdO8WbJzgAvtTsMr8w7XgMj5wJeNwqX9ghWKSOg/s1600/hs-unleashed-prerelease-sleeves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6BtQFE0SeyFKWK7ZB4epE5uE13XkBy5gsnIEj2ttqKW1f6xobWgwDZE6BKFULLGuoTFfWmxJo1-qdocOjyVAuH-tKjvbrC9K-eTYdO8WbJzgAvtTsMr8w7XgMj5wJeNwqX9ghWKSOg/s200/hs-unleashed-prerelease-sleeves.jpg" width="143" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vLbOL5xrWYObGzZg581o39revI-NUv_uP5vk2DgDZNYYcHREq3eUJL-QoMKm3MTk7r7Z-S5udHsUgsAukl9aTmkEjuUsRGjLqcWg-7ieT_hdyNNzbEja9eoFGl_iebamo70UfCZFsg/s1600/Undaunted_logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vLbOL5xrWYObGzZg581o39revI-NUv_uP5vk2DgDZNYYcHREq3eUJL-QoMKm3MTk7r7Z-S5udHsUgsAukl9aTmkEjuUsRGjLqcWg-7ieT_hdyNNzbEja9eoFGl_iebamo70UfCZFsg/s320/Undaunted_logo.png" /></a>Also, for all those preparing a month ahead, Jeff Reynolds will be coming back to Hillside Games August 14th for our VERY FIRST Pre-Release! Pre-Releases are so much fun! The entry fee is $25, but for that every player gets 8 packs of cards (retail value of $32), a pack of 60 Pokemon sleeves you can only get at a Pre-Release and a Pre-Release promo! <b>Registration will be from 11AM-Noon. Registration is short and sweet as you don't need your own deck.</b><br />
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That's all for now!<br />
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<b>UPDATE:</b> I've added a link to Jeff Reynold's NC/SC Pokemon tournament website. He has all the upcoming events on there with all the information you'll need like start time, entry fee, etc. Make sure to come prepared for the upcoming events!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3246612624082725138.post-48930915877572282932010-07-11T23:34:00.000-04:002010-07-11T23:34:47.514-04:00A New Beginning! Welcome!Hi, welcome to the blog for the Western North Carolina Pokemon League!<br />
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My name is Matt, and I hope to keep you guys updated as much as possible about what is going on at the Pokemon League. News may cover topics like new promos, upcoming tournaments, or anything Pokemon TCG-based.<br />
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Thanks for reading!Matthew R.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01131616276997692409noreply@blogger.com2