At the 2026 Pokémon World Championships held in San Francisco, approximately 300 volunteers, known as Pokémon professors, played a crucial role in managing the event. These individuals, identifiable by their red Pikachu-themed staff shirts, function as referees, educators, and event managers, supporting the competitive environment for players across various Pokémon games.
The Pokémon Professor Program, described by the Pokémon Company International as a global community of dedicated fans, organizes and oversees official tournaments around the world. Their responsibilities vary depending on the format and specific event—for instance, professors handling Pokémon Unite focus on player coordination and technical assistance, while those assigned to the trading card game provide rule enforcement and guidance, especially for first-time competitors.
Gemma Byard, a head judge and Pokémon professor, highlighted the importance of maintaining tournament integrity. She explained that her duties include verifying match results and signatures to ensure accurate outcomes, as well as ensuring the venue’s safety for all participants. Byard also underscored the sometimes difficult nature of their role, which involves addressing disputes and maintaining order during tense moments on the floor.
Professors often travel internationally to staff events, with varying forms of compensation. While some European volunteers receive merchandise kits as a token of appreciation, others in the United States may receive wages and support for travel, accommodation, and meals, though official details from Pokémon Company International on compensation were not provided.
Evelyne de Groot, who came from the Netherlands to participate in the championships, shared her experience working her way up from local to international events. She was involved in the trading card game’s side event, Pokémon Sisterhood League, which aims to provide a welcoming space for women and non-binary players. De Groot emphasized that a successful Pokémon professor must strike a balance between enforcing rules and fostering an enjoyable atmosphere, likening the role to customer service.
De Groot’s experience was comparatively calm, but others, like Byard, regularly engage with frustrated players. Byard recounted a situation where she had to manage a competitor upset by a ruling, explaining her approach to de-escalating tensions by encouraging respect and clear communication. She noted that professors are sometimes perceived as antagonists but stressed they have access to full information and make decisions aimed at upholding fairness and sportsmanship.
Through their volunteer efforts, these Pokémon professors serve as the essential backbone of the competitive Pokémon community, ensuring tournaments run smoothly while supporting players both new and experienced.