The MTG Iloilo Amateur League was a shining example of how a Magic: The Gathering community can foster growth, camaraderie, and passion for the game. Designed specifically for new and casual players, the league offered a low-pressure environment where aspiring Planeswalkers could dip their toes into the world of competitive gameplay without the intimidating stakes of higher-tier tournaments.

The decks used were often less polished but brimming with creativity, and the focus was always on learning the ropes rather than outright victory. For many, it was their first taste of shuffling up across from an opponent and discovering the thrill of tournament Magic while building confidence in their skills.

More than just a proving ground, the Iloilo Amateur League was a hub for connection and community. Veteran players served as mentors, offering tips and encouragement to the newcomers, while friendships formed over shared battles and post-game discussions. It was a place where winning was secondary to the experience itself—a reminder of what makes Magic special: the stories we create and the bonds we form over the cards we play.

Though the league may no longer be active, its legacy lives on in the players it inspired and the lessons it taught about inclusivity and nurturing the next generation of Magic enthusiasts.

I hope to revive this soon as long as the new generation can appreciate the somewhat old-school aspect of Magic: the Gathering gameplay.