Pokemon leagues, there all over the US. I personally don't like them and only go to get promos and trade a little. But let's look at the ups and downs of the Pokemon League.
GYM LEADERS: This is one subject that keeps coming up. Only a couple people actually think that the gym leaders do an okay job. I was at the league the day of the mews and I wanted to battle the gym leader. The guy starts drawing until he has seven cards at all times. Put down a pokemon and energy, draw two cards. I thought that he would let me draw two cards. You can't draw ore than 1 card, that's only ADVANCED RULES. I tried to teach him how to play and he said that's how everyone here plays. I have heard many bad stories about gym leaders giving bad rule clarifications. So, the verdict is, have gym leaders take a difficult test to see if they're good enough. As of right now, gym leaders are a big problem.
TRADING: The trading is o.k. but the little kids ruin it. OMG! Is that a CHARIZARD!!!! They don't ever want to trade either, they're too careful. And trade backs, let's see, NO! I don't care what you say, there's no such thing as trade backs! And when the little kids try to steal cards. I also have heard many many stories of parents trying to force other children to trade with their son/daughter.
BATTLES: No one knows how to play right. If they do they usually stink. It stinks, don't go there to battle.
OVERALL: If you want promos, it's ok. If you want to battle, it stinks, If you want to trade, it's ok. I REALY think you'd enjoy your local card shop (if you have one near). That's all!