Great thread here. I remember going to the trading card league too. Rarely actually played the game though, most just gathered there for trades, which you would get points for. I think it was just common promos you got in exchange for them, but still, free cards! Looking at the old art work is awesome too, definitely should of stuck to that style. I still have lots of the cards stashed away, some completed sets and binders. Might add some pictures tomorrow.
Playing through Pokemon Red was the first time I really got into a game, to the point of being hooked and continuing to level up my pokemon even after the elite four. I caught Missingno out of pure curiosity, the equivalent of pushing the red button. It messed up my hall of fame, but that was it. Pokemon Yellow was one of the most fun, just because it took on aspects of the actual anime show. I think it was the only one to do that, been a while since I played a game in the series, so could be wrong. The old series will always hold a special place to me.
