280: How Finding a Mentor Can Help You Succeed with Alexander Kreuz

280: How Finding a Mentor Can Help You Succeed with Alexander Kreuz

Author: Shaun Penrod talks tips and stories with professional Magic: The Gathering April 13, 2018 Duration: 56:27

Alexander Kreuz is a former PTQ grinder who has 6 Pro Tour appearances. He took a hiatus from Magic and came back in 2017 to finish 10th at GP Amsterdam and recently got his first Grand Prix top 8. Alexander lives in Koblenz, Germany.

Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Alexander Kreuz when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep280

First Set

6th Edition Starter

Favorite Set

Alara Block / Ravnica Block

Favorite Card

Gifts Ungiven

Early Challenge

Alex struggled with keeping a good mindset when he was grinding. By playing against players who were better than him, Alex was able to train his mind to handle variation better.

Worst Magic Moment

Alex lost in the finals of a PTQ. He knew his opponent's deck and knows he could have done better.

Proudest Magic Moment

Winning his first PTQ top 8 ever, defeating some big-name players.

Advice To Players

Play MTGO and play at bigger events every chance you get.

How Was Your Dedication to Magic Impacted Your Life

"I wouldn't be the same person without Magic."
Alex learned and grew so much from playing Magic.

Sportsmanship

Never cheat and don't allow others too. When you lose it's okay to feel disappointed, just don't let it rob your opponent of their victory.

Biggest Mistake Players Make

Beginners make different mistakes than advanced players. But generally, players don't mulligan very well. Be more aggressive with your mulligan.

Parting Guidance

If you're actually trying to get better at Magic, find a mentor and watch them play. Make note of everything they do that's different from what you would do.

Magic Resource

MTGO, Magic online decklists

Connect With Alexander Kreuz

Alex can be found in the MTG Pro Tutor Facebook group.

Check Out Magic Story

Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.

Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com

 

Sponsors

Patreon milestone 2


Every Tuesday and Friday, MTG Pro Tutor-Insights, Tips & Advice from Magic: The Gathering Pros brings you straight into the minds of the game's top competitors. Host Shaun Penrod sits down with professional players and respected community figures, moving beyond simple decklists to explore the real journeys that shaped them. These conversations uncover the habits, mental frameworks, and often-overlooked practical advice that separate good players from great ones. You'll hear specific, actionable strategies you can apply in your very next match, distilled from countless hours of practice and competition. This isn't just about theory; it's about translating the hard-won experience of pros into tangible improvements for your own game. Whether you're aiming to sharpen your technical play, better understand complex interactions, or simply enjoy the personal stories behind the cards, this podcast serves as a consistent resource. The focus remains on genuine insight over hype, offering a clear path to leveling up your skills. Tune in for a direct line to the collective wisdom of the Magic community, all designed to help you play smarter and with more confidence.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

MTG Pro Tutor - Insights, Tips & Advice from Magic: The Gathering Pros
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