Preface:
Summary
Like my previous post, this will continue as a work in progress. It’s more important to me to get the info I have already compiled out there for other eyes to gaze upon rather than spending the next few weeks filling in missing gaps that I may have. As always, any promotional materials or attendance records from this time period are greatly appreciate (verified sources only, please <3)
Pokemon Organized Play (POP) 2004-2005
Having one year of competitive play under their belt, NoA/TPCi had more room in the 2004-2005 competitive cycle to expand their reach and introduce new Premier Events into the midst. Stadium Challenges would be phased out, Regionals would make their first appearance, and attendance overall would greatly grow in this year.
POP Series Booster Packs
Pokemon Organized Play announced in August 2004 that they had plans to release new 17-card sets every 6 months, exclusive only to POP sanctioned events and tournaments. POP Series 1 booster packs would be released in late August and early September to start the next cycle of competitive Pokemon League events. Interestingly, POP Series 1 boosters were handed out to league organizers for the entire 2004-2005 competitive season, so it seems there was a delay on the intended “new POP Series packs every 6 months”…
Below are all Year 6 “Sevii Islands” POP League Kit Contents
- September 19th - October 30th, 2004 (Season 1, “Knot Island”)
(10x Poke Ball Badges, 10x Magmar Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - October 31st - December 18th, 2004 (Season 2, “Boon Island”)
(10x Nest Ball Badges, 10x Slowbro Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - December 19th, 2004 - February 12th, 2005 (Season 3, “Kin Island”)
(10x Great Ball Badges, 10x Hypno Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - February 13th - March 26th, 2005 (Season 4, “Floe Island”)
(10x Dive Ball Badges, 10x Poliwhirl Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - March 27th - May 7th, 2005 (Season 5, “Chrono Island”)
(10x Net Ball Badges, 10x Kingler Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - May 8th - June 18th, 2005 (Season 6, “Fortune Island”)
(10x Ultra Ball Badges, 10x Gyarados Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - June 19th - July 30th, 2005 (Season 7, “Quest Island”)
(10x Timer Ball Badges, 10x Cubone Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs) - July 31st - September 17th, 2005 (Season 8, “Trainer Tower”)
(10x Master Ball Badges, 10x Mewtwo Island Challenge Stickers, 20x POP Series 1 Booster Packs, 10x POP ID Card Redemption Codes)
Format Change
Effective October 1st, 2004, the Pokemon TCG Expedition block of the Modified format was no longer legal. This rotation booted out Expedition Base Set, Aquapolis, and Skyridge expansions to include the following sets:
As new sets and promotional products were released they were also rotated into the Modified format (ex: EX Team Rocket Returns in early November)
Erratas in October
Erratas in December
City Championship Series 2004-2005 (North America)
Over 125 City Championship Events in North America took place between November 16th, 2004 and January 16th, 2005. Participants were given a Machop EX Hidden Legends card with a promotional City Championships stamp on it as well as a POP Series 1 2-card booster pack.
Canada
- St. Albert, AB, Canada: Mission: Fun & Games on January 23, 2005
- Calgary, AB, Canada: Sentry Box on January 16, 2005
- Mississauga, ON, Canada: Untouchables on January 8, 2005
- Scarborough, ON, Canada: Dolly’s on January 15, 2005
- Oshawa, ON, Canada: Skyfox Games on November 27, 2004
Mexico
- Aguascalientes, AGU, Mexico: The Crow on January 8, 2005
- Coacalco, Mexico: Galactica Producciones on January 23, 2005
- Mexico, DF, DIF, Mexico: Arlequin Hobbies on November 20, 2004
- Celaya, GUA, Mexico: Mysterious Grounds on January 15, 2005
- Leon, GUA, Mexico: N.P.I. on January 16, 2005
- Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico: El Kiosko on January 9, 2005
- Edo. Mex, Mexico: Parque Naucalli on November 21, 2004
- Morelia, MOR, Mexico: Zona de Combate on January 16, 2005
- Guadalupe, NL, Mexico: Card Zone on December 18, 2004
- Cuernavaca, MOR, México: Torre de Babel on January 22, 2005
- Monterrey, NLE, Mexico: Hotel Howard Johnson Macroplaza on November 27, 2004
- Puebla, PUE, Mexico: La Torre Arcana on December 11, 2004
- Cancun, QUE, Mexico: Gamers Den on November 27, 2004
- Toluca, Mexico: Games & Adventures on December 12, 2004
- Veracruz, VER, Mexico: La Boveda on December 4, 2004
- Coatzacoalco, VER, Mexico: Spellz Empire on December 5, 2004
- Merida, YUC, Mexico: Gamers Den on November 28, 2004
United States
- Chandler, AZ: Gamer’s Edge on December 12, 2004
- Fountain Valley, CA: Fountain Valley Public Library on November 20, 2004
- Temecula, CA: Fun n’ Games on November 20, 2004
- El Segundo, CA: El Segundo Public Library - Matsui Room on November 27, 2004
- Anaheim, CA: GenCon SoCal, Anaheim Convention Center on December 4, 2004
- Camp Pendleton, CA: San Onofre Community Center on December 11, 2004
- Cupertino, CA: Legends Gaming/Valco Mall on December 11, 2004
- Modesto, CA: Kriers Cards & Comics on December 18, 2004
- Diamond Bar, CA: All Star Games on December 19, 2004
- Vista, CA: Pair-A-Dice Games on January 8, 2005
- Oakland, CA: United Collectors International on January 8, 2005
- Lancaster, CA: Bases Cards & Comics on January 15, 2005
- Bakersfield, CA: Paladin Gaming on January 16, 2005
- San Diego, CA: Game Empire on January 22, 2005
- Wheat Ridge, CO: Valhalla’s Game Center on November 27, 2004
- Fort Collins, CO: Marshak’s House of Fantasy on December 11, 2004
- Colorado Springs, CO: Dale’z Kardz & Komicz on December 18, 2004
- Lakewood, CO: Hobbytown USA on December 28, 2004
- Claymont, DE: Rogue’s Den on December 12, 2004
- Casselberry, FL: Gathering Place Games on December 4, 2004
- Margate, FL: Comic Connection on December 11, 2004
- Fort Lauderdale, FL: Dragons Lair on December 18, 2004
- West Palm Beach, FL: Past Present Future Comics on January 8, 2005
- Clermont, FL: Unity Entertainment/Jenkin’s Auditorium on January 15, 2005
- Jacksonville, FL: Jack and Shelly’s Comics on January 22, 2005
- Newnan, GA: Newnan Sports Cards on December 11, 2004
- Ames, IA: Mayhem Collectibles on December 4, 2004
- Marshaltown, IA: Coliseum on December 11, 2004
- Nampa, ID: Dugout Sports Cards and Games on December 18, 2004
- Boise, ID: Magic Dragon Games on December 19, 2004
- Collinsville, IL: Dizzy Dugout on January 2, 2005
- Cromwell, IN: Cromwell Community Center on December 5, 2004
- LaGrange, IN: Moose Lodge Conference Room on January 15, 2005
- South Bend, IN: Fantasy Games on January 22, 2005
- Lenexa, KS: BattleZone on January 2, 2005
- Erlanger, KY: Cincinnati Airport Days Inn Hotel on December 11, 2004
- Richmond, KY: Fun Asylum on January 9, 2005
- Covington, LA: Action Games on December 5, 2004
- Milford, MA: TJ Collectibles on January 15, 2005
- Rockville, MD: Dream Wizards on December 5, 2004
- Caribou, ME: Caribou Recreation Center on December 11, 2004
- Garden City, MI: Pandemonium on November 28, 2004
- Tecumseh, MI: Tecumseh Scout Cabin on December 19, 2004
- Rochester Hills, MI: Rochester Hills Precinct Building #5 on January 8, 2005
- Brooklyn Park, MN: Outpost 2000 & Beyond on December 5, 2004
- St. Peters, MO: Dragon King Games on November 27, 2004
- Sedalia, MO: ABC Advertising on December 4, 2004
- St. Louis, MO: The Gathering Ground on January 8, 2005
- Rolia, MO: Eclipse Comics & Books on January 15, 2005
- Carriere, MS: Southern Cards & Gaming on January 9, 2005
- High Point, NC: DJ’s Cards & Stuff on December 4, 2004
- Chapel Hill, NC: Cerebral Hobbies on December 11, 2004
- Cary, NC: Holiday Inn on December 12, 2004
- Raleigh, NC: Hobby Masters on January 8, 2005
- Greenville, NC: Holiday Inn on January 9, 2005
- Asheville, NC: Strike Zone on January 16, 2005
- Fuguay-Varina, NC: Underground Hobbies on January 22, 2005
- Charlotte, NC: Underground Games on January 27, 2005
- Denville, NJ: Dark Tower Games on December 5, 2004
- Cedar Grove, NJ: Time Warp Comics & Games on December 18, 2004
- Las Vegas, NV: Hero’s Playground on December 11, 2004
- Henderson, NV: The Counterspell on January 8, 2005
- Brooklyn, NY: Kings Games on November 27, 2004
- New York, NY: Pokemon Center New York on January 16, 2005
- Athens, OH: Universe of Super Heroes on December 5, 2004
- Dayton, OH: Bell Book & Comic on December 18, 2004
- Independence, OH: Indiana Wesleyan University on January 15, 2005
- Hilliard, OH: Hampton Inn & Suites on January 23, 2005
- Moore, OK: 4th Street Boutique on December 4, 2004
- Del City, OK: Drake’s Place on December 18, 2004
- Portland, OR: Morrison Center on December 4, 2004
- Gresham, OR: Game Geex on December 11, 2004
- Sandy, OR: Sandy Community Center on December 19, 2004
- Tualatin, OR: Ancient Wonders on January 9, 2005
- Blue Bell, PA: Infinite Quests on November 27, 2004
- Holmes, PA: Alternate Universe on December 5, 2004
- Frankville, PA: Schuylkill Mall on December 19, 2004
- Exton, PA: Inn at Chester Springs on January 2, 2005
- Lebanon, PA: Warlord’s Den on January 8, 2005
- Johnston, RI: Disposable Heroes on January 21, 2005
- Lincoln, RI: Gamers’ Haven on January 27, 2005
- Columbia, SC: The Fine Art of Baseball on December 5, 2004
- Greenville, SC: Wingate Inn on January 23, 2005
- Memphis, TN: Embassy Suites on January 22, 2005
- The Woodlands, TX: Holiday Inn Express on November 20, 2004
- Katy, TX: All The Fun Stuff on November 21, 2004
- Sugarland, TX: Heroes Collectibles on November 27, 2004
- San Antonio, TX: Purple Cactus Comics on December 4, 2004
- Plano, TX: Creative Gift Baskets on December 5, 2004
- Houston, TX: Heroes Collectibles on December 11, 2004
- Richardson, TX: JJK Cards on December 12, 2004
- Fort Worth, TX: Y2Komics on January 8, 2005
- Salt Lake City, UT: Trolly Sq Mall on November 20, 2004
- Layton, UT: End Zone on December 11, 2004
- Woodbridge, VA: Game Parlor on December 11, 2004
- Stafford, VA: Comic World on January 15, 2005
- Renton, WA: Shane’s Big League Sports Cards on November 27, 2004
- Kirkland, WA: Kirkland Sportscards on November 28, 2004
- Lynnwood, WA: Phoenix Games on December 5, 2004
- Bremerton, WA: Jeanne’s Sports Cards on January 8, 2005
- Redmond, WA: Genesis Games & Gizmos on January 15, 2005
- Vancouver, WA: The Bat Cave on January 16, 2005
- Federal Way, WA: The Commons at Federal Way Mall on January 22, 2005
- Manitowoc, WI: My Parent’s Basement on December 31, 2004
The Top Four finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- City Champion Medal
- 18x EX Team Rocket Returns Booster Packs
- 1st Round bye at their local State Championship in April or May
- A special merchandise gift package
2nd Place
- 9x EX Team Rocket Returns Booster Packs
3rd & 4th Place
- 4x EX Team Rocket Returns Booster Packs
Right here is a copy of the Tournament Decklist each participant had to fill out in order to compete.
City Championship Series 2004-2005 (International)
Internationally, over 45 City Championship Events took place between December 18th, 2004 and May 14th, 2005. Participants were given a Machop card from EX Hidden Legends with a promotional City Championships stamp on it as well as a POP Series 1 2-card booster pack.
- Olivos, Argentina: Dominaria on March 12, 2005
- Cordoba, Argentina: Game Land on March 13, 2005
- Perth, WA, Australia: Tactics WA on January 9, 2005
- Windsor, VIC, Australia: Card Haven on January 29, 2005
- Nundah, QLD, Australia: Fastbreak Sports Cards and Collectibles on February 20, 2005
- Burwood, NSW, Australia: Sydney Games Centre on February 20, 2005
- Brasilia, Brazil: Pendragon on January 8, 2005
- Juiz de Fora, Brazil: Magazine Taberna Do Dragao on January 15, 2005
- Guarulhos, Brazil: WorkPlay on February 19, 2005
- Sao Paulo, Brazil: Devir Livraria on February 19, 2005
- Concepcion, Chile: Tienda Valinor on December 18, 2004
- Iquique, Chile: Mundo Alterno on January 15, 2005
- Vina del Mar, Chile: Altermundi on January 15, 2005
- Iquique, Chile: Mundo Alterno on January 28, 2005
- Concepcion, Chile: Tienda Valinor on February 12, 2005
- Vina del Mar, Chile: Altermundi on February 15, 2005
- Santiago, Chile: Mall Florida Center on February 19, 2005
- Plzen, Czech Republic: Ogri Doupe on March 12, 2005
- Slany, Czech Republic: DDM Ostrov on May 15, 2005
- Vejle, Denmark: Vestbyens Fritidscenter on March 13, 2005
- Otterup, Denmark: Otterup Bibliotek on April 3, 2005
- Odense, Denmark: Dragons Lair on April 9, 2005
- Hyvinkaa, Finland: Royal Toys on February 12, 2005
- Helsinki, Finland: Fantasiapelit on February 15, 2005
- Holloway, Great Britain: La Parisienne on February 19, 2005
- Crewe, Great Britain: TCTC Unit 23 on March 5, 2005
- Mitcham, Great Britain: McDonalds on March 8, 2005
- High Wycombe, Great Britain: Longburrow Hall on March 13, 2005
- Horsham, Great Britain: Chesworth Junior School on March 19, 2005
- Bournemouth, Great Britain: Purbeck Suite, Highcliff Marriott on March 20, 2005
- Norwich, Great Britain: Battlenet on March 27, 2005
- Rochester Kent, Great Britain: The Guild Hall Museum on March 27, 2005
- Exeter, Devon, Great Britain: Clifton Road Games on March 19, 2005
- Hackney, London, Great Britain: Homerton Library on March 12, 2005
- Denny, Stirlingshire, Great Britain: Lion & Dragon on March 13, 2005
- Crawley, West Sussex, Great Britain: St. Edward The Confessor Social Club on March 12, 2005
- Crawley, West Sussex, Great Britain: St. Edward The Confessor Social Club on April 2, 2005
- Manduria, Italy: Ex Monastero delle Servite on December 23, 2004
- Lorenskog, Norway: Spaceworld Triaden on April 1, 2005
- Fjellstrand, Nesodden, Norway: Fjellstrand Skole on April 5, 2005
- Oslo, Norway: Outland Oslo on April 3, 2005
- Stavanger, Sorlandet, Norway: Outland Stavanger on April 1, 2005
- Vinterbro, Norway: Spaceworld Vinterbro on April 2, 2005
- Lisboa, Portugal: Arena Lisboa on February 26, 2005
- Sines, Portugal: Galleria BT on February 26, 2005
- Porto, Portugal: Arena Porto on February 26, 2005
- Caldas da Rainha, Portugal: MC Caldas on March 6, 2005
Awards and prizes were identical to the North American City Championships.
Professor and Play Rewards Program
In late December of 2004, TPCi rolled out plans to reward players and Pokemon Professors alike to redeem their points for special merch and promotional cards. On the old op.pokemon-tcg.com website adults were able to take a test online to become an official Pokemon Professor and help staff League and Premier events around the globe. In late January the Pokemon Professor Rewards Point Program and Pokemon Player Rewards Point Program finally opened, allowing Professors specifically to redeem their points for a few very unique cards:
Six Basic Energy Cards and a Professor Oak’s Research card were all reprinted with a Professor Program 2004-2005 stamp on it. These cards were distributed in sealed cello packs.
State Championship Series 2005 (International)
Internationally, State Championships were far less common than in North America. Throughout February, March and April there are only a handful of events that have survived on the internet; Please let me know if you have any additional verified dates and locations of State Championship events in Europe or Australia!
Participants were given a Machoke from EX Hidden Legends with a State Championships stamp.
- Santiago, Chile: Apumanque on March 5, 2005
- Calama, Chile: Gothyka World on March 20, 2005
- Temuco, Chile: Kiosco Salo Temuco on April 9, 2005
- Praha, Czech Republic: Cerny Rytir on February 27, 2005
- Brno, Czech Republic: Cerny Rytir on April 16, 2005
The Top Eight finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- State Championship Trophy
- 24x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
- A special merchandise gift package
2nd Place
- 16x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
3rd & 4th Place
- 8x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
5th through 8th Place
- 4x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
State Championship Series 2005 (North America)
Over 30 State Championship Events took place throughout March 2005 in North America. These events were larger than City Championships but smaller than Regional Championships and 1st Place winners were given travel allowances to attend the National Championship later in the year (these travel allowances were only awarded in North America.) Each participant received a Machoke card from EX Hidden Legends with a promotional State Championship stamp.
- Barrie, ON, Canada: Gamer’s Lair on March 19, 2005
- Distrito Federal, DF, Mexico: Convencion Comicmania on March 19, 2005
- Celeya, GT, Mexico: World Collector Cards on March 12, 2005
- Coacalco, MX, Mexico: Galactica Producciones on March 20, 2005
- Monterrey, NL, Mexico: XXVI Convencion de Comics y Juegos on March 6, 2005
- Cancun, QR, Mexico: Gamers Den on March 13, 2005
- Mobile, AL: Ground Zero Comics and Games on March 12, 2005
- Kissimmee, FL: Laquinta Inn Lakeside on March 19, 2005
- Newnan, GA: Fire Mountain Restaurant on March 12, 2005
- Ames, IA: Mayhem Collectibles on March 19, 2005
- Boise, ID: Magic Dragon Games on March 19, 2005
- Niles, IL: Pastimes on March 6, 2005
- Auburn, IN: Laquinta Inn on March 19, 2005
- Lexington, KY: Heroes Realm on March 12, 2005
- Covington, LA: Axtion Comics Cards & Games on March 13, 2005
- Rockville, MD: Dream Wizards on March 6, 2005
- Presque Isle, ME: Eagle Hill on March 12, 2005
- Brooklyn Park, MN: Outpost 2000 & Beyond on March 6, 2005
- St. Louis, MO: The Gathering Ground on March 12, 2005
- Jackson, MS: Books-A-Million on March 20, 2005
- Cedar Grove, NJ: Time Warp Comics & Games on March 19, 2005
- Las Cruces, NM: Hidden Treasures on March 6, 2005
- Las Vegas, NV: A Fistful of Games on March 19, 2005
- Del City, OK: Drake’s Place on March 12, 2005
- Portland, OR: Morrison Center on March 12, 2005
- Exton, PA: Inn at Chester Springs on March 20, 2005
- Toa Baja, Puerto Rico: FJ Games on March 19, 2005
- Johnston, RI: Disposable Heroes on March 20, 2005
- Columbia, SC: The Fine Art of Baseball on March 20, 2005
- Memphis, TN: Embassy Suites on March 19, 2005
- Salt Lake City, UT: End Zone Cards on March 19, 2005
- Stafford, VA: Comic World on March 19, 2005
- Federal Way, WA: The Commons at Federal Way Mall on March 5, 2005
- Manitowoc, WI: My Parents Basement on March 20, 2005
The Top Eight finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- State Championship Trophy
- A $300 travel allowance to attend Origins International Game Expo and participate in the Pokemon TCG National Championships. This award was given on-site at the event.
- Four-day admission to the Origins Game Expo in Columbus, OH
- 24x EX Deoxys Booster Packs
- A special merchandise gift package
2nd Place
- 16x EX Deoxys Booster Packs
3rd & 4th Place
- 8x EX Deoxys Booster Packs
5th through 8th Place
- 4x EX Deoxys Booster Packs
Regional Championships Series 2005
A total of 13 Regional Championship Events took place in the United States in May and June of 2005. Regionals and Gym Challenge events were the last events that competitors could use to qualify for Worlds 2005.
Each participant was given a Deoxys card from EX Deoxys with a special Regional Championships stamp.
- Portland, OR: “Northwest,” May 28, 2005
(Attendance ~147) - Cupertino, CA: “NorCal,” May 28, 2005
(Attendance ~82, Unverified) - Camp Pendleton, CA: “SouthCal,” May 14, 2005
(Attendance ~124) - Salt Lake City, UT: “Mountain West,” May 21, 2005
(Attendance ~112) - Madison, WI: “Midwest,” May 14, 2005
(Attendance ~99, Unverified) - Arlington, TX: “Southern Plains,” May 21, 2005
(Attendance ~109) - Memphis, TN: “Mississippi Valley,” May 28, 2005
(Attendance ~137) - Toledo, OH: “Great Lakes,” May 14, 2005
(Attendance Unknown) - Milford, MA: “New England,” May 29, 2005
(Attendance ~98) - Meadowlands, NJ: “Northeast,” May 14, 2005
(Attendance ~102) - Philadelphia, PA: “Mid-Atlantic,” June 4, 2005
(Attendance ~143) - Greensboro, NC: “Eastern,” May 14, 2005
(Attendance ~91) - Kissimmee, FL: “Southeast,” May 28, 2005
(Attendance ~99)
(Unconfirmed International Event Locations:) - Haifa, Israel: Toys R Us Haifa on July 6, 2005
- Kfar Saba, Israel: Toys R Us Sharona on July 7, 2005
- Tel Aviv, Israel: Toys R Us Tel Aviv on July 10, 2005
The Top Eight finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- A Pokemon TCG Regional Champion Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in August 2005
- A travel award for the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships.
- A scholarship award worth $1500
- A $300 travel allowance to attend the Origins International Game Expo and participate in the Pokemon TCG National Championships. This award was given on-site at the event.
- Four-day admission to the Origins Game Expo in Columbus, Ohio
- A combination of 36x Booster Packs from the current Pokemon TCG expansions
2nd Place
- A Pokemon TCG Regional Championships Second Place Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in August 2005
- A travel award for the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships.
- A scholarship award worth $1000
- A combination of 36x Booster Packs from the current Pokemon TCG expansions
3rd Place
- A Pokemon TCG Regional Championships Third Place Trophy
- A scholarship award worth $500
- A combination of 36x Booster Packs from the current Pokemon TCG expansions
4th Place
- A scholarship award worth $500
- A combination of 36x Booster Packs from the current Pokemon TCG expansions
5th through 8th Place
- A combination of 18x Booster Packs from the current Pokemon TCG expansions
Gym Challenge Series 2005
Gym Challenge Series Events took place from June 11th to 26th, 2005 in North America. A very large chunk of records of these events have been lost to time and any help on finding missing locations and dates for these events is much appreciated!
Each participant was given a Rayquaza card from EX Deoxys with a Gym Challenge stamp.
- St. Albert, AB, Canada: Mission: Fun & Games on June 26, 2005
- Oshawa, ON, Canada: Skyfox Games on June 18, 2005
- Mexico DF, DF, Mexico: Centro de Convenciones Tlatelolco on June 18, 2005
- Monterrey, NL, Mexico: Holiday Inn Parque Fundidora on June 19, 2005
- Mesa, AZ: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites on June 12, 2005
- Irvine, CA: Atrium Hotel on June 12, 2005
- Cupertino, CA: Legends Gaming/Valco Mall on June 25, 2005
- San Diego, CA: SDSU, Aztec Center on June 25, 2005
- Colorado Springs, CO: Holiday Inn Airport on June 18, 2005
- Wheat Ridge, CO: Vahalla’s Game Center on June 25, 2005
- Claymont, DE: Rogue’s Den on June 18, 2005
- Tampa, FL: Baseball Card Clubhouse on June 19, 2005
- Coral Springs, FL: Brads Sports Cards on June 25, 2005
- Kissimmee, FL: Ramada Plaza Hotel on June 11, 2005
- Newnan, GA: Fire Mountain Restaurant on June 25, 2005
- Ames, IA: Gateway Center on June 18, 2005
- Boise, ID: Magic Dragon Games on June 18, 2005
- Niles, IL: Pastimes on June 12, 2005
- Collinsville, IL: Dizzy Dugout on June 25, 2005
- Auburn, IN: LaQuinta Inn Auburn on June 25, 2005
- Overland Park, KS: Collectors Cache on June 12, 2005
- Lexington, KY: A+ Comics and Collectibles in June 18, 2005
- Covington, LA: Best Western Northpark Inn on June 25, 2005
- Milford, MA: TJ Collectibles on June 12, 2005
- Rockville, MD: Dream Wizards on June 26, 2005
- Presque Isle, ME: Eagle Hill on June 11, 2005
- Jackson, MI: Holiday Inn Harvest Room on June 11, 2005
- Brooklyn Park, MN: Outpost 2000 & Beyond on June 12, 2005
- Sedalia, MO: ABC Advertising on June 11, 2005
- St. Louis, MO: The Gathering Ground on June 26, 2005
- Jackson, MS: Books a Million on June 12, 2005
- New York, NY: Rockefeller Concourse on June 12, 2005
- High Point, NC: DJ’s Cards & Stuff on June 11, 2005
- Charlotte, NC: Underground Games on June 18, 2005
- Cedar Grove, NJ: Time Warp Comics & Games on June 25, 2005
- Henderson, NV: Galleria at Sunset on June 18, 2005
- Hilliard, OH: Hampton Inn on June 25, 2005
- Del City, OK: Drake’s Place on June 11, 2005
- Portland, OR: Parkrose Community Center on June 18, 2005
- Eugene, OR: Lane Community College on June 25, 2005
- Blue Bell, PA: Infinite Quests on June 11, 2005
- Toa Baja, Puerto Rico: FJ Games on June 11, 2005
- Anderson, SC: Planet Comics on June 26, 2005
- Memphis, TN: Triple Play on June 18, 2005
- Sevierville, TN: Sevierville Community Center on June 25, 2005
- Shenandoah-Woodlands, TX: Shenandoah Conference Center on June 25, 2005
- Richardson, TX: JJK Cards on June 18, 2005
- San Antonio, TX: Purple Cactus Comics on June 26, 2005
- Salt Lake City, UT: Trolley Square Mall on June 11, 2005
- Woodbridge, VA: Game Parlor on June 11, 2005
- Federal Way, WA: The Commons on June 11, 2005
- Brookfield, WI: Knights of Columbus Meeting Hall on June 25, 2005
- Manitowoc, WI: My Parents Basement on June 26, 2005
The Top Eight finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in San Diego
- 36x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
2nd Place
- 18x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
3rd & 4th Place
- 9x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
5th through 8th Place
- 4x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
Stadium Challenge Series(?) 2005
It’s hard to classify this as a “Series,” because the 2005 Stadium Challenge was just a single event in Austria, and subsequently the last Stadium Challenge event in all of Pokemon TCG history. Each participant was given a special promo card, another Deoxys from EX Deoxys with a very unique Stadium Challenge stamp. Except at this event, supplies quickly ran out and a large portion of players ended up receiving leftover Regional Championship stamped copies of the same card. This Stadium Challenge Deoxys is widely considered one of the rarest promos from this time period, and understandably so.
Stadium Challenge, StiegelKeller
Salzburg, Austria
June 25th, 2005
Three winners were crowned Champion in their respective age division:
- (10 & Under) Jasa Godnjov (Slovenia)
- (11-14) Arco Olimans (Netherlands)
- (15+) Daniel Cohen (Germany)
The Top Eight finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in San Diego
- 36x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
2nd Place
- 18x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
3rd & 4th Place
- 9x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
5th through 8th Place
- 4x Booster Packs of the most current Pokemon TCG Expansion
National Championships Series 2005 (International)
While the first International National Championship took place before the North American Regionals events, a majority of these events took place in May through July of 2005. Each participant received a Machamp card from EX Hidden Legends with a special National Championships stamp. There were also unique “Staff” stamped versions of these Machamp cards given to Pokemon Professors and staff at each event.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina:
Last Chance Qualifier, DGL on June 9, 2005
Last Chance Qualifier, Dima Game on June 12, 2005
Argentina Nationals on June 19, 2005
*Attendance ~64 - Salzburg, Austria:
Stadium Challenge Austria^, StieglKeller on June 19, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Kent Town, SA, Australia:
Australia Nationals, Battlezone Gaming & Entertainment on July 16, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Brussels, Belgium:
Belgian Championship, Bruparck on May 1, 2005
Attendance ~49 - Sao Paulo, Brazil:
Nacional de Pokemon, XII EIRPG on June 5, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Toronto, ON, Canada:
Canadian National Championships, Radisson Hotel Toronto East on July 9, 2005
Attendance ~104 - Luzern, Switzerland:
Swiss Nationals, NH Hotel on June 12, 2005
Attendance ~21 - Santiago, Chile:
Nacional Chile 2005, Fun Center Mall Plaza Vespucio on June 4, 2005
Attendance Unkown - Prague, Czech Republic:
Czech Nationals, Cerny Rytir on June 25, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Frankfurt, Germany:
German Nationals, Jahrhunderthalle on May 7, 2005
Attendance ~101 - Otterup, Denmark:
Nationals Denmark, Otterup Skole on May 28, 2005
Attendance ~101 - Guayaquil, Ecuador:
Campeonato Nacional de Pokemon, Riocentro Los Ceibos on July 3, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Helsinki, Finland:
Finnish Nationals 2005, Fantasiapelit on May 14, 2005
Attendance ~44 - Woburn Park, Bedfordshire, Great Britain:
UK & Ireland National Championship, The Safari Lodge on June 18, 2005
Attendance 100+, Unknown - Tel Aviv, Israel:
Israel Nationals, Toys R Us Tel Aviv on July 10, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Ravenna, Italy:
Italian National Final Event, Mirabilandia on July 3, 2005
Attendance ~51 - Sliema, Malta:
Malta National Pokemon Tournament, Salesians Youth Club on July 9, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:
Malaysian Nationals 2005, Bangsar Shopping Complex on June 26, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Utrecht, Netherlands:
Open Dutch Nationals, Nationaal Denksportcentrum on July 3, 2005
Attendance ~166 - Oslo, Norway:
National Championships Norway 2005, Hotel Opera on April 30, 2005
Attendance ~137 - Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand:
New Zealand Nationals 2005, Parnell Community Center on July 30, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Lisboa, Portugal:
Portugal Nationals, Arena Lisboa on July 9, 2005
Attendance Unknown - Goteburg, Sweden:
National Championships Sweden, Barken Viking on May 29, 2005
Attendance ~38 - Singapore:
Singapore National Championships, Comics Mart on May 29, 2005
Attendance ~31 - Ljubljana, Slovenia:
Slovenia National Championship, Dijaski dom Vic on May 7, 2005
Attendance ~69
(Any help on tracking down dates for the 2005 Mexico, Spain, France, and Hong Kong National Championships is greatly appreciated! All I can find are dead links on the wayback machine. I am under the assumption that “Nationals” for Mexico may have just been a Gym Challenge event of some sort since those also awarded a Worlds invitation.)
The Top Sixteen finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- A Pokemon TCG National Championships First Place Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005
- A travel award to the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships
- A scholarship award worth $500 ($1500 in Canada & Mexico)
- 72x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
2nd Place
- A Pokemon TCG National Championships Second Place Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005
- A scholarship award worth $250 ($750 in Canada & Mexico)
- 44x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
- A travel award to the winner to the 2005 World Championships (Canada and Mexico only)
3rd Place
- A Pokemon TCG National Championships Third Place Trophy
- A scholarship award worth $125 ($500 in Canada & Mexico)
- 36x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005 (Canada and Mexico only)
- A travel award to the winner to the 2005 World Championships (Canada and Mexico only)
4th Place
- A scholarship award worth $125 ($500 in Canada & Mexico)
- 36x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005 (Canada and Mexico only)
- A travel award to the winner to the 2005 World Championships (Canada and Mexico only)
5th through 8th Place
- 18x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
9th through 12th Place
- 9x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
13th through 16th Place
- 5x Pokemon TCG Booster Packs
U.S. National Championship 2005
The United States National Championship was held at the Origins International Game Expo (now known as Origins Game Fair) from June 30th to July 3rd, 2005 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH. Participants were given a Machamp card from EX Hidden Legends with a National Championship stamp. There were also unique “Staff” stamped versions of these Machamp cards given to Pokemon Professors and staff at each event. The 3rd Pokemon Professor Championship was held and a new winner was crowned. This event, unlike the year prior, followed modified format guidelines and was not REL 2.
Three winners were crowned Champion in their respective age division, as well as a new Pokemon Professor Championship winner:
(10 & Under) Curran Hill
(11-14) Stuart Benson
(15+) Seena Ghaziaskar
(Professor Championship) Shawn Gettys
The Top Sixteen finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- A Pokemon TCG National Championships First Place Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005
- A travel award to the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships
- A scholarship award worth $2250
- A combination of 72x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
2nd Place
- A Pokemon TCG National Championships Second Place Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005
- A travel award to the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships
- A scholarship award worth $1250
- A combination of 44x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
3rd Place
- A Pokemon TCG National Championships Third Place Trophy
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005
- A travel award to the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships
- A scholarship award worth $750
- A combination of 36x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
4th Place
- An invitation to the Pokemon TCG World Championships in 2005
- A travel award to the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2005 World Championships
- A scholarship award worth $750
- A combination of 36x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
5th through 8th Place
- A combination of 18x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
9th through 12th Place
- A combination of 9x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
13th through 16th Place
- A combination of 5x Booster Packs from the current TCG expansions
World Championships 2005
Competitors received a commemorative pack of Tropical Tidal Wave cards similar to the previous year, consisting of seven prints of Tropical Tidal Wave in English, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish. The packs also came with two two promotional inserts cards; one with an advertisement for unreleased World Championship Decks coming later in the fall and another with the date and venue for the 2006 World Championships.
2005 Pokemon World Championships
Town & Country Resort and Convention Center
San Diego, California, USA
Approximately 434 total players attended Worlds this year.
In addition to the special stamped versions that were awarded at Worlds 2004 (Staff, Top Sixteen, Quarter Finalist, Semi-Finalist, Finalist) the 2005 World Championships included “Top 32” stamped versions of these trophy cards as well. Each competitor was also given a Championship Arena Black Star Promo card similar to the Tropical Winds handed out the year prior. The Top 3 finishers of each age category also received “No. 1/2/3 Trainer” Trophy Cards.
Three winners were crowned Champion in their respective age division:
- (10 & Under) Curran Hill
- (11-14) Stuart Benson
- (15+) Jeremy Maron
The Top 32 finishers in each of the three age categories received these prizes;
1st Place
- A Pokemon TCG World Champion Trophy
- An invitation to the World Championships in 2006
- A travel award for the winner (and parent or legal guardian for players under 18) to the 2006 World Championships in Anaheim
- A scholarship award worth $7500
- One box of each of the most current Pokemon TCG expansions for a year
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
- Additional prizes not specified
2nd Place
- A Pokemon TCG World Championships Second Place Trophy
- A scholarship award worth $5000
- One box of each of the most current Pokemon TCG expansions for a year
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
- Additional prizes not specified
3rd Place
- A Pokemon TCG World Championships Second Place Trophy
- A scholarship award worth $3500
- One box of the next Pokemon TCG expansion
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
- Additional prizes not specified
4th Place
- A scholarship award worth $3500
- One box of the next Pokemon TCG expansion
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
- Additional prizes not specified
5th through 8th Place
- A scholarship award worth $1500
- 18x Booster Packs from the next upcoming Pokemon TCG expansion
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
- Additional prizes not specified
9th through 16th Place
- A scholarship award worth $1000
- 18x Booster Packs from the next upcoming Pokemon TCG expansion
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
- Additional prizes not specified
17th through 32nd Place
- 9x Booster Packs from the next upcoming Pokemon TCG expansion
- Pokemon World Championships commemorative merch
Roughly 11 months after the release of POP Series 1, POP Series 2 booster packs were finally available at the 2005 World Championships.
