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DCI Judge Newsletter

Judge Shirts—A History

PT Kyoto saw the debut of the next generation of judging attire. I thought it would be a good time to reminisce about other shirts  used throughout the judge program. But before we step down memory lane, I’d like to share some information on the new shirts.

One thing, that hard to notice at first is that the new shirts used in America and Europe are made by different companies—thus the fabric and the actual shade of color is slightly different, which was apparent at GP Barcelona, where Frank and I didn’t look quite alike (although were both tall blondes).

Also in Barcelona, “shirt-tech” was developed—if you roll-up the sleeves (which is allowed), you can stay much cooler.

Black & White “Zebra” Shirts

These well-known shirts will continue to serve the program for some time. Well-liked as they were clearly visible even in the busiest tournament venue have become a symbol of judging.

The much more rare Red & Whites used by head judges of high profile events are not only going away—they’re actually banned from the Judge Center. If you still have your picture up in one of these—you’d better take care of it now.

Purple “Barney” Shirts

Named after the beloved(?) children’s TV program host, their color scheme also stood out well in a crowded floor. Since they were regular T-shirts, they didn’t clash with more casual attire like shorts.

They were primarily used in Side-Events, especially given to judge candidates while they worked the floor. There were some notable exceptions, however. At the second GP Prague we had a shirt shortage and at least one judge had to parade in purple.

Black Polo

Virtually unknown outside of Europe, these shirts dominated at Grand Prix events on the Old Continent. They were very similar to the staff shirts one can see at Pro Tour events, except that they sported the DCI logo on the breast and the word ‘Judge’ on the (short) sleeve.

They were also popular at local events, where a head judge could sport the “zebra”, while the rest of the judges used these polo shirts.

“Tropical” shirts

Two events (PT Honolulu, PT Kuala Lumpur) featured “special edition” versions of the “zebra” shirt. Styled after tropical (Hawaiian) shirts, they were made from light material just right for the exotic location of these events. Rare in and of themselves, the rarest were of course the head judge shirts from these events!

It’s no wonder that these shirts were the envy of the judging world.

Commemorative Shirts

Pro Tours and some other events (e.g. selected Nationals) issue commemorative shirts for players, staff, and judges. They are kept in similar style throughout the tournament season and feature the date and location of the event. They provide a nice souvenir / keepsake from the event.

Ancestral Memories

By Adam Cetnerowski