I've had this card since the age of 12. Never had the opportunity until now to get his RC signed. Thanks Matt for making this happen!!
3 Things That Make Every Autograph Signing Successful (I Wish More Athletes Knew This)
Autograph signings can be very different depending on the athlete. Every athlete has their own personality, their own signing style, and their own feelings about the autograph industry.
Sometimes signings feel rushed and mechanical. Other times they are fun and memorable for everyone involved.
Recently, we worked with Matthew Stafford and Sam Darnold at autograph signings. Both athletes checked every box for what collectors hope to see. It reminded me of something important. If more athletes followed their example, autograph signings would be better for collectors and better for the athletes themselves.
In fact, many athletes would probably sign more often and make more money if they focused on three simple things.
1. A Quality Autograph
The first thing collectors notice is the autograph itself.
Matthew Stafford has one of the best autographs in football. It is full, stylish, and consistent. Every item receives the same strong signature. He does not shorten his autograph on smaller items like cards. He signs the same way every time.
The result is a beautiful autograph that collectors are proud to own.
When you look at Staffordβs signed items, the autograph stands out. It has personality and style. Almost every autograph from the signing would likely grade extremely well if submitted for grading.
Collectors care about this. A great autograph shows that the athlete respects the item and the fan who will own it.
2. Clear Handwriting on Inscriptions
The second thing that stood out during the Stafford and Darnold signings was their handwriting.
When athletes write inscriptions, the handwriting matters. Collectors want to be able to read what was written.
Both Stafford and Darnold take their time when writing inscriptions. The handwriting is neat and very easy to read. When you watch videos from the signing, you can actually see how carefully they write each word.
This makes the item look better and more professional.
Many collectors spend good money on inscriptions. When the handwriting is clean and legible, the final piece looks much better in a collection.
3. A Personality That Makes the Signing Fun
The third factor is personality.
Autograph signings can sometimes be quiet and awkward. Some athletes sit down, sign the items, and say very little.
But when athletes are willing to talk and interact a little, the experience becomes much more enjoyable.
This does not mean they need to have long conversations. Even a small interaction can make the event feel more relaxed.
One example that always stands out is Trevor Hoffman. During one signing we talked with him about his son recovering from an injury during spring training. That conversation turned into a larger discussion about baseball. At one point a young Angels prospect even stopped by and the two talked baseball for nearly twenty minutes.
Moments like that make signings memorable.
Why Collectors Should Speak Up
When athletes do these things well, collectors should let them know.
If you see an athlete with a great autograph, compliment them on it. If their handwriting is excellent, tell them. If they are friendly and make the signing enjoyable, thank them.
Athletes appreciate hearing that feedback. It reinforces the behavior that collectors value.
And the truth is, autograph signings can become an important source of income for athletes after their playing careers are over. When they give collectors a great experience and provide quality signatures, they can continue signing for many years.
Everyone wins.
Collectors get beautiful pieces for their collections.
Athletes build a reputation as great signers.
Promoters can host better events.
The Simple Formula
The best autograph signings usually come down to three simple things:
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A strong, consistent autograph
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Clear handwriting on inscriptions
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A friendly personality that makes the event enjoyable
Matthew Stafford and Sam Darnold showed exactly how this should be done.
When athletes focus on these three things, collectors walk away feeling like they received real value for their money. And that is what keeps the autograph hobby strong.
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Once again, Matt and his team delivered a smooth, professional experience in obtaining a Dustin Pedroia autograph (with authentication) to a book already containing a number of Red Sox greatsβ signatures. I recommend Powers Spirts Memorabilia highly.
Great experience. Card was just as described. Excited to have this added to the collection.
Frank Thomas 1990 Topps Signed Baseball Rookie Card #414B Auto Graded Beckett 10
The COA was placed exactly where I wanted it and it turned out great. Always an easy experience.
An excellent experience with the team. The ball turned out perfectly. Easy to ship the ball in and it returned after signing without an issue.
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Fernando Tatis Jr 2019 Topps Baseball Rookie Card RC #410 Graded PSA 9 MINT
π such a nice autograph! Thank you!
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Mr. Powers delivered on my request for this Cal Ripken jr. autograph. It was a nice size clean and perfect signature better than I expected. Mr. Powers team is quick to respond with any concerns you may have and keeps you posted on your item. I will absolutely be getting more signatures through them to finish my collection. I highly recommend Powers Sports to anyone that has any doubts. I use to do send ins with Steiner sports until he sold, to me Powers picked up where they left off and I couldnt be happier. Thank you
Great experience as usual! Iβll definitely be getting more autographs in the future!!
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The color match ink auto looks great! Thanks!
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This might be the only autograph of this card that has his whole auto on it. Great addition to the collection!
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I submitted 2 cards to get them signed by Patrick Ewing himself. Thanks Matt Powers and his team for this signing event.
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Ronald Acuna Jr 2018 Topps Living Baseball Rookie Card RC #19 Graded PSA 10
Loved it all.
Great experience as usual, highly recommend Powers
Great job by Matt and his team as usual
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Awesome experience as usual, I love my Jagr autograph!
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Great experience! I had never gotten any autographs through a signing like this before and I had a number of questions. Someone called me right back & couldnβt have been nicer. The customer service was outstanding every step of the way & I couldnβt be happier with the Reggie Jackson autographed ticket.
Nice to have a trading card signed by Wade Boggs in his Yankees uniform. Thanks Matt Powers and his team for this signing event.
Nice to have my Rookie Card signed by Manny Ramirez himself. Thanks Matt Powers and his team for this signing event.
Nice to have an autograph from Dr. J himself. Thanks Matt Powers and his team for this signing event.
Another exceptional autograph experience with Powers! Thanks again!
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