>>42416006That's not really true. The Champion/League/Gym Leaders are also essentially protectors and almost a national guard, judging by how they're treated. Gym leaders protect their cities and the local area, the Champion responds to serious threats around the region, etc. The Pokemon League seems to take on most roles that the government does in a country. Sports stars don't do that.
The Champion as the "military" leader of a region fits with the President being the Commander-in-Chief of the military.
Also makes sense why Chairman Rose went to the Champion about everything.