Sports Autograph Can Still Be a Cherished Possession

Autographs from professional athletes have become a big business. You can find almost anything you want on websites like eBay if you are willing to pay the price. On occasion, you will get an autograph back in response to a letter request. The problem is, you don't know if it's really the athlete's signature.

What counts and means the most is the autograph you get in person, especially here in town. I still remember legendary Cleveland Indians pitcher Bob Feller signing autographs some years back at a drug store in town. His death this past off-season reminded me of that special day.

I have a baseball signed by all four of the all-time Hoover High baseball coaches —Hertler, Knisely, Long and Hite. The appreciation is not so much the autographs but the chance to have met all of them in person.

The basketball and football teams have a yearly tradition of sending some of their players back to their respective elementary schools to meet with the students and sign autographs. That event creates a lot of excitement and great memories.

A company in nearby Louisville, Superstar Sports Signings, runs a monthly sports card show at the Courtyard Marriott over on Metro Circle. As part of their card show, they regularly bring in "Pro Football Hall of Famers" for a reasonable price ($20 to $40) in a relaxed atmosphere.

They are in the midst of bringing in three consecutive Hall of Famers in as many months. Last month, former Chicago Bears legend Gale Sayers appeared. This past weekend, 2010 inductee and former Denver Broncos running back Floyd Little was on hand. Next month, 84-year-old hall of fame quarterback Y.A. Tittle will be signing.

I took my youngest son to meet Sayers and Little and I found both to be refreshing in their classy and friendly demeanor. They both patiently posed for pictures when requested and made it a point to readily shake hands with those of us old enough to remember them back in their actual playing days.

Financial considerations aside, it is a cherished moment to take your son to meet a living sports legend in person and be in their presence. The autograph is simply a reminder of the moment and makes for warm conversation for years to come. 

I am already looking forward to meeting Tittle next month. I highly recommend you make a cherished memory as well – in your own back yard.

Extra Innings:

Congratulations to the Hoover winter sports most valuable players: Boys' Bowling, Nick Harrison; Girls' Bowling, Krista Heighway; Ice Hockey, Dave Werwinski; Boys' Swimming, Mitch Alters; Girls' Swimming, Jacquelyn Misanik; Wrestling, Ryan Teis.

The 2011 Hoover football schedule is out. The Vikings pick up new opponent Stow High School from Summit County as the season and home opener on Aug. 26 and also host Perry, Austintown Fitch, McKinley and Jackson.