Judging with Autism

By Alex Stratton

What is Autism?

• Autism is a neurological and social

disorder that affects the way some

individuals interact with others.

• Autism is known to be genetic but it is

still unclear today what gene exactly

causes it.

• About 1 in 88 have some form of

Autism.

How does Autism affect me?

• I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome at

the age of four. It is on the autism spectrum

and those diagnosed with it have difficulty

socializing with others and recognizing non-

verbal communication cues.

Finding Magic: The Gathering

• When I discovered Magic in fifth grade when

I saw all the kids in my class played Yu-Gi-

Oh, my grandmother accidently bought me

Magic cards instead.

• I was fascinated with the game’s artwork

and rules. I read through the rulebooks and

strategy guides over and over.

• I eventually started playing FNM and slowly

moved on to larger tournaments.

What did Magic do for me?

• Magic allowed me to find friends with a

common interest, and give me interaction

with others that I normally would’ve been

afraid to approach.

• Although I had my stumbles in the

community, I have made some of my best

friends through Magic. Because of Magic, I

learned many important lessons sooner than

I might have otherwise.

Discovering the Judge Program

• I found out about Judging when one of my

friends in the area became a Level 1. After he

became a Level 2, we talked about his ability

to certify other judges to the program.

The road to Level 1

• When I decided I wanted to become a Judge

I had no idea what was expected or required

of me. Although my rules knowledge was

decent, my reputation in the community was

not what one would expect of a Judge.

• However after over two years and much

effort I tested at a local GPT, and passed.

Judging with Autism

• Once I was a judge I quickly learned that I

had some distinct advantages and

disadvantages that other judges do not have.

• An advantage was that I learn very quickly

and am persistent.

• A disadvantage was that I folded to players’

peer pressure at times and missed social cues.

Thus, I exhibited inappropriate and

awkward behavior at times.

Inspiration and desire to progress

• I became a L1 seven months ago and am

currently working to become a L2.

• My inspirations for progressing in the

program stem from what I have learned from

it and local Judges.

How you can help me

• Before the event, inform me of my duties for the day, and make sure to be specific. Also be patient and answer questions when you are free.

• During events, I sometimes talk to players or make a mistake due to a failed social interaction. You can help me by recognizing the good things I have done, but also reminding me to stay on task.

• After the event, recap with me what I did well and what I could’ve improved on. Also let me ask you how your event went, as talking to others about themselves is something I need to work on.