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.

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 Pok&eacute;mon.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;That last category is where 9-year-old Owen Wheeler shines. Later in August, he will compete in the 2026 Pok&eacute;mon World Championships in San Francisco.

Sound Ideas is WGLT's signature local news series. Every weekday, WGLT reporters go beyond soundbites for deeper conversations with newsmakers, musicians, artists, and anyone with a story to share. New episodes air throughout the day on WGLT.

Sound Ideas is WGLT's signature local news series. Every weekday, WGLT reporters go beyond soundbites for deeper conversations with newsmakers, musicians, artists, and anyone with a story to share. New episodes air throughout the day on WGLT.

WGLT's Sound Ideas

WGLT's Sound Ideas is our flagship news program. Every weekday, WGLT reporters go beyond soundbites for deeper conversations with newsmakers, musicians, artists, and anyone with a story to share. This 30-minute newsmagazine is produced Monday through Friday. You can also subscribe to the Sound Ideas - Full Episodes podcast.

WGLT's Sound Ideas is our flagship news program. Every weekday, WGLT reporters go beyond soundbites for deeper conversations with newsmakers, musicians, artists, and anyone with a story to share. This 30-minute newsmagazine is produced Monday through Friday. You can also subscribe to the Sound Ideas - Full Episodes podcast.

Bloomington 9-year-old to compete in 2026 Pokémon World Championships

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