From the legendary pocket monster known as Ogerpon on his hat, to the Croc charms of Squirtle, Bulbasaur and Charizard on his shoes, a Bloomington boy proudly displays his love for Pokémon. The franchise first launched as a video game in 1996. In the 30 years since, it exploded in popularity. Now it can be found in various forms: plushies, toys, animes, movies and trading cards. That last category is where 9-year-old Owen Wheeler shines. Later in August, he will compete in the 2026 Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco.