Happy holidays all,
This time of the year is by far the most exciting for any
football fan. As we move further into the holiday season, it’s important to
start thinking about that special leatherhead in your family and what you
should get them as a present. While there is a wealth of sports apparel and
memorabilia out there, it’s important to keep an eye on what you are buying and
to make sure it’s right for the person you are buying it for.
The first thing on the list is to get to know them. Are they
a Raiders fan? Or are they a Packers fan? Who is their favorite player (Current
or historical)? Which players do they not like, this is very important as know
one wants to have a piece of their collection represented by a player they
never liked or want off of their teams. Is it officially merchandised? Nothing
ruins the experience more then finding out that prized item you have is an
illegal rip-off of the main brand. Also, if you are buying a signed item, is
there proof that it’s actually signed by the athlete? Make sure you always get
a letter of authentication. While they can be faked as well, it furthers your
case if you later find out that indeed you paid star-name dollars for the
sports shop owner’s signature.
Next, look at what they already have. Do they have a number
of jerseys already? If so then you might look else where, signed photos, rookie
cards, signed helmets, or even the oddities like a team-themed lamp. Even if
you are not the savviest consumer, you can find great deals as long as you know
what you are looking for when you get to the shop. Haggle, this is a big one,
because if it’s memorabilia, chances are you can get the shops to come down on
the price. Also, if you are looking for something signed, take the time to look
online and find similar items to see what they are actually going for, there is
no reason to pay an extra $100 dollars on that prized game ball, if there is
one similar to it for less. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you want
to get them something more remarkable, such as a rare autograph, study the athlete’s
signature history. Did you find a lot of items signed by them? Did the prices
match when you crosschecked them? Also, check to see that the item’s, if
claimed to be from an actual game, match the league’s equipment contracts of
the time. You won’t find a Reebok NFL licensed jersey of Robert Griffin III, nor
would you find a Nike game worn uniform of Andre Reed.
As you go out, I hope my advice has helped you discern your
holiday purchases a bit more then normal, because the details count.
Be safe as you all go out and enjoy your time with your
families,
Justin
