Editor’s Note: Today we have a special treat! Sara Mox, Former Judge Community Manager at Wizards of the Coast, has written a letter to all of us at Judge Academy to help introduce our first Promo for the Jan 2020 Mailing!

Hello, Magic Judges,

When I met you, I was burned out. I was in the middle of my short run at a career in politics, disillusioned and unsure how I wanted to make an impact on the world. We met in 2014, at Grand Prix Sacramento. I doubt you remember me, but I remember you so very well. I remember bright faces greeting me, eager to help me find my way through the maze of tables, to find the Magic experience that was right for me (I happened to be there to scrub out of my first GP). I remember kind, authoritative faces on the stage, bustling with efficiency that made things go smoothly during the long day. I remember helpful floor judges, correcting errors and answering questions. Mostly, I remember the joy I saw in everyone in black and burgundy. That event was when I knew where I wanted to place my ambitions next and where I wanted to be in the Magic community; the moment my spark ignited.

You supported me. You became my chosen family as you helped me learn the deeper layers (and the actual layers!) of the best, most complex game on Earth. You picked me up endlessly as I struggled with rules exams and encouraged me as I found different ways to contribute to the community. In my “Level 1 Introduction” post (and many times since) I quoted Isaac Newton: “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants”. You are all giants whose knowledge and passion for Magic have left a mark that can never be erased. I have learned so much of who I am today through you, Judges. I have learned self-care and professionalism, how to be a good team member, how to lead.

Magic judges have shaped who I am and who I will be, and I am so proud of the time I’ve spent supporting and being part of your community.

Though I can never fully give back what you’ve given to me, I have a small gift for you today. I wanted to give you something to mark the beginning of the next 20 years of judging. Say hello to Archie the Owl!

Starting in 2020, all judge promos will have this unique expansion symbol. This symbol represents who you are to me and to the Magic community: wise, watchful teachers. Along with the expansion symbol, I wanted to give you your first promo preview for 2020, Enlightened Tutor!

Thank you so much, for everything. Your future is as assured and bright as ever. I can’t wait to see you bring what you know to the wider gaming community, to teach and to learn, and to continue transforming the lives of gamers like myself.

Sara Mox

Final Note: You didn’t think we were going to leave you hanging with just 1 of the cards did you?