Devastating to see this happen to a family that is so welcoming and sweet and generous to everyone. These kids need to be celebrated for their hard work and accomplishments, not booed and torn down.
Seeing Annabelle make it to the finals two years in a row is something I never dreamed would become reality. I was hopeful, of course; just like every PokΓ©mon trainer and every parent.
Losing in the finals is something we can accept, especially against an exceptional player like Luke. Our kids have experienced their share of losses, and thatβs part of competition. What I never expected and what truly broke my heart was hearing people boo her simply for playing the game.
Annabelle didnβt hear/see the negative part of the crowd during her match today, and for that Iβm grateful. But hearing it myself has left me questioning whether competitive PokΓ©mon is a healthy environment for her.
What hurts most is that many of the people rooting against her today are people weβve celebrated alongside. Weβve sung happy birthday to their children, given gifts, congratulated them after great performances, and cheered them on through Regional top cuts and World Championship runs. I completely understand supporting your favorite player. What I struggle to understand is making another child feel unwelcome and ashamed simply for competing.
My daughter has one of the kindest hearts I know. No one could honestly say she has ever intentionally hurt anyone. She approaches this game with sportsmanship, always doing her best while treating others with kindness.
She started playing PokΓ©mon because Jeff showed her how incredible both the game and the community could be. Annabelle is full of joy, compassion, and a carefree spirit, and Iβve always wanted to protect those qualities for as long as possible.
Today was an extraordinary accomplishment and I could not be prouder. She stood on one of the biggest stages in PokΓ©mon, competed with grace, and represented herself exactly as she always has with heart, respect, and courage.
Mommy is so proud. I love you, Annabelle.