There are a few things that I do before a big tournament to get ready for it. I find that it helps me feel ready and a lot less scared when I have a solid game plan going into the tournament. I'm going to go over some of the things that have worked for me.
Research: This is a pretty simple thing to do. Do a little research on the area that the tournament is being held in. Find out who wins a lot of the tournaments in this area, and what there list is. You can find ANYTHING on the Internet these days if you know what your doing. Its a really simple task that will help you feel a lot more ready for the tournament, and give you an idea of what to expect.
Check out the Missions: About 90% of tournaments I attend post there Missions somewhere online before the tournament. This is another great thing to check out when your doing your research. I myself sit down and write out a game plan for each mission, and even take it with me to the tournament. Its good to know the mission before hand so you don't have to spend time that could be used on playing. Write down where you would like to place objectives, Overall Mission game plans, What you might reserve for this mission, ETC. Anything that comes to your mind or that stands out about the mission is a good thing to write down. You might catch a little part of the mission that you will be able to use to your advantage.
Practice Practice Practice: I say this a lot but if you want to be a serious tournament player then practicing is very important. You need to know your list inside and out. What its strong against, and what you may need to watch out for. This is in my eyes the most important thing you can do. What looks good on paper might get smashed in the face more then you expected. You list might need to be fixed a little before the tournament.
I have about two to three tournaments a month that I addend so it can take up a lot of time. Its important to remember why your doing this. Everyone has there own reasons. Some just love to play the game others have that inner need to win. I myself have that inner need to win. I love to win more then anything. I'm okay with losing, but I make sure no matter who I play I have a good chance of beating them.
This month I have:
-Finals of the international “Ard Boyz” Warhammer 40K
-The Third Annual Warmaster’s 40K Challenge
I feel pretty good about both events. I have done enough research and practicing that I feel I could win if all goes well. The Third Annual Warmaster’s 40K Challenge I feel really good about because im going with my good friend jon. Its a two day event with a Doubles one day then the Singles the next. Its rare that I go to a tournament for the fun aspect, but I decided to go to this one and try to have as much fun as I can. Dont get me wrong im still going for gold.
Hope you enjoyed the read
Peachykeen
