2008 Professor Cup is Underway!

Expert Pokémon judges from across the country compete at the Origins Game Fair.

Palkia, Dialga, and Pikachu overlook the competition.

The Pokémon TCG U.S. National Championships begin tomorrow (June 28), but the competitive spirit is already heating up at the Origins Game Fair in Columbus, Ohio. With eight-person pick-up tournaments taking place in the background, Pokémon Professors from across the country are shuffling their decks in preparation for the 2008 Professor Cup.

Normally, Pokémon Professors are the folks who make tough rulings and critical calls during Pokémon TCG tournaments and events. Now, the tables are turned as the Professors compete, and it's the players who make the hard judging decisions.

Go-Pokemon.com asked two young judges what they did to prepare for this event. Nick Chimento from Clifton Park, New York reported, "Nothing. I already know most of the rules … It's going to be fun."

Regional Championships winner Patrick Tuskey from Richmond, Virginia stated, "I've been going over the penalty guidelines once or twice but that's about it."

When pressed to declare whether or not they would be willing to accept bribes from the Professors competing in the Cup, both judges had a hearty chuckle and emphatically declared "No!"

"Mini-Judges" Patrick Tuskey (left) and Nick Chimento.

We also spoke to Pokémon Professor, and father of Nick Chimento, John "Johnny Blaze" Chimento to explain the best aspects of being a Professor.

"The most rewarding thing is to work with the kids and teach them how to play. There is a great comradery between the Professors. You can see that in the Professor Cup. I think it's really neat that my son is a judge today."

More than 140 Professors are competing in this year's Professor Cup, and there are some great prizes on the line. Professors finishing in the top three spots receive trophies, Nintendo DS Lites, and more. Most importantly, bragging rights are on the line!

Who will end up on top when the dust settles? Stay tuned to Go-Pokemon.com to find out!

Interested in becoming a Pokémon Professor? Click here for more information.

Pokémon Trainer Jordain prepares for battle.

Pokémon Professor John "Johnny Blaze" Chimento.

Pikachu overlooks the 2008 Professor Cup.