What is the primary function of the head judge?

The primary function of the head judge in a Magic: The Gathering event is to enforce the Magic Tournament Rules (MTR) and ensure fair play. This role is crucial as the head judge is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the tournament, making sure that all players adhere to the rules and that any issues that arise are handled according to established guidelines. The head judge also oversees the staff and delegates responsibilities to other judges, ensuring a smooth operation throughout the event.

While managing the prize pool or providing strategies may be aspects that come up during a tournament, they do not encapsulate the core responsibilities of the head judge. The emphasis is on upholding the rules and fostering a fair environment for all players, which is fundamental to the integrity of competitive play in Magic: The Gathering.