
The Australian (Jordan Palmer)

Jordan came close to fulfilling this dream at the European International Challenge – qualifying for day 2, and finishing the tournament at 19th place. And, this was by no means a fluke result.
In 2016, Jordan won three consecutive Australian Regional Championships. He then placed 2nd at a fourth Regionals… The same year, he won the Australian National Championships and was ranked 1st in the Asia Pacific Region based on Championship Points. He was ranked second in the Masters Division Worldwide.
Jordan’s love for Yveltal is well documented. Will he be announcing Evil Ball this weekend?
The American (Connor Finton)

Connor boasts a pretty impressive resume – it’s hard to believe that he only started playing in 2013. In 2015, he placed in the Top 4 at St. Louis Regionals. In 2016, he won 2 State Championships, and a Regional Championship. This year, Connor has already placed in the Top 4 at Dallas Regionals, Top 16 at Anaheim Regionals, and in the Top 32 at the Ft. Wayne and St. Louis Regionals.
Most of Connor’s accomplishments were achieved while playing Skyfield decks. This year, his result at every notable event (except Anaheim Regionals) was achieved with Gardevoir. I bet Parallel City is his least favourite card…
The Canadian (Jay Lesage)

Ok, ok, I realise that was 7 years ago, and Jay was a Senior. So what has Jay done recently that earns him a place on this list?
In 2016, he earned a Top 8 and Top 32 at Regionals, Top 4 and Top 8 at States, won 5 City Championships, placed in the Top 8 at the Canadian Nationals, and Top 16 at the World Championships. This season, he has placed in the Top 4 or better in six of the seven Premier events he has competed in. This includes earning 2nd place at the European International Challenge.
And, he’s a real gentleman when he defeats you.
The Kiwi (Louis Chi)

Louis openly admits that he “enjoys” playing item lock decks – his favourite decks were Toad / Shaymin in 2015, and Vileplume Box in 2016. However, lately he has been a big fan of Greninja. When asked what his favourite animal was, he responded “Panda.” Greninja is not an item Lock Deck, and “Panda” is neither a stereotypically “anti-Australian” Kiwi response. What a confusing young man.
The Malaysian (Yee Wei Chun)

We would like to wish all players competing in the International Championship weekend the best of luck. Be sure to stay tuned to our Live Coverage here on PokeAus throughout the weekend! Be sure to follow me on twitter and youtube for constant TCG content.