by Patrick Yapjoco
With the last major event coming up this weekend, I thought we’d take a look at the players expected to attend the event and get to know them a bit more. No more fluff, let’s get to it!
Arizona Squad
This group has taken the circuit and the format by storm. They have some of the most unique teams and are leaders in the technology of Bronze Age. These guys roll deep. No less than 6 players usually make it out to the event, and it’s a who’s who of the Arizona scene: Matt Esbrook (Juggernaut), Justin Herrington (Phoenix Shredders), Collin Froreich (Undying Cap), Michael Braudrick (Dice Manipulation), Ben Bielecki (Lydea Monsters), and Nate Ybanez (Blue Panther). This is a star-studded group. Every single one of these players has either won a Trial, Qualifier or Top 8’d a $1k, and has come up with some of the most copied teams in the format. That’s some talent from our neighbors to the east. Expect a few of these guys to Top 8 the $1k this weekend.
Matt Esbrook
NorCal
Even though we are in the same state, these guys probably travel the farthest to the event. Jonah Weikert, Jonathan Murray, and Paul Cote are some of the best players from up north and they come with very powerful and unique teams. Paul won the Best There Is Games Trial with an innovative Jasons team, while Jonah has been knocking on the door of a breakout performance for a while now. I wouldn’t be surprised to see at least one of these guys to Top 8.
Paul Cote
Bakersfield Boys
These guys have been long-time supporters of the Open Series (since the beginning!) so they hold a sentimental place for me. Armando Ramirez is the enabler there, always setting up Trials or Qualifiers whenever needed and he can gather the guys for some great attendance. Robert Gallagher is the other longtime supporter, as well as one of the top players in the circuit. Rob almost never plays the same team twice, and is always brewing. His very powerful Constructs team, which he won the Comic Cult Trial is one of the top teams in the format. He is one of the favorites to win the event.
Robert Gallagher
The Gambits
Tony Rodriguez and Steve DiCarlo. Fire and Ice. Team-Builder and Pilot. These two couldn’t be more opposite when it comes to Heroclix. Both are two of the best players in the SoCal area, with Steve winning the $2k Invitational last year. Both are also Trial winners coming into the event. Tony is the one who takes more risks, trying new things, and rarely every playing the same team, while Steve is more conservative, opting to play the tried and true teams, with his tweaks. Don’t be surprise if one or both Top 8, or even win the event outright.
Steve DiCarlo
San Diego
Not much is known from this relatively new group from down south. These guys traveled to the Arizona Infinity Cup not too long ago, so they are not averse to travel for big events. Austin Murray Top 8’d that event with a unique Hellfire Club team, so look for more big things from these guys come this weekend.
Santa Clarita Crew
Led by Chase Lovoy, these guys, who play at Brave New World, are familiar with the format, having played many events. Chase is known for playing Slate, and almost always makes the single-elimination cut with him, so be sure to be ready for some Pulse Wave! He will be joined by Johnny Vega (yes, that’s his real name) to bring some experience to the event.
Chase Lovoy
Defending Champ
Richard Medina, the defending $1k Champion, as well as a Trial winner, will be there playing his trusty Lex Luthor (with new toys!). You better be packing some Pulse Wave, or a way to lock down Lex in order to beat him. I fully expect Richard to make a solid run at going back-to-back.
Richard Medina
Hometown Heroes
Last, but certainly not least, is the crew from Majestix. These players all play at the store, and are led by trial winner Alyssa McNeil, and that annoying Nimrod. Mr. Clixso, David Colon, will be in attendance with Uni-Mind, while relatively newcomers Sean Smith and Nicholas Bonanni, are poised to show their mettle and competitiveness with their unique Monster teams.
Alyssa McNeil
Well, that’s a quick preview of who’s coming and competing in the Main Event. The format truly is diverse, and you can almost play anything you want and have a fighting chance. Good luck to all, and make sure you all follow us on Youtube for Live Streaming of the entire Main Event!
