Hobby Musings: NSCC Tips, At the Show – The 2022 National Sports Collectors Convention is still a few months away, but the anticipation and excitement for the hobby’s biggest show is already building. Here are some tips for making the most of the show while you are there. If you missed tips for before the show, check them out here.
1. Be prepared to meet anyone
One of the best parts of the National every year is getting to make new friends and/or catch up with old ones. For many, it’s a chance to put faces to names of people that maybe they had only spoken to online. Events like trade nights also help to build a sense of community at the event. Either way, it’s essentially a hobby family reunion of sorts.
Another bonus about the NSCC is the possibility to run into athletes and celebrities who may be in attendance. Last year, Steve Aoki was at the NSCC with his crew, and I’ve also heard of others like Pat Neshek and Rex Ryan attending in the past. COMC had Ty Dillon at their booth for a few days last year, and Fergie Jenkins and Chipper Jones stopped by the Topps booth to answer some fan questions. People like Darren Rovell and Gary Vaynerchuk have also had booths at the show in recent years. It doesn’t hurt to have your camera and some autograph materials handy in case you have a chance to snag a bonus souvenir.
2. Don’t wait to buy things you want
This is one I’ve learned the hard way many times over the past couple of Nationals. I’d see something I wanted at a good price, but held off until I saw what else the show had to offer. I’d go back to the table later just to find that it was gone. If you see something you want at a price you’re comfortable with, BUY IT!!! If you think it’s a great price, chances are somebody else will too and scoop it up, leaving you upset that you missed out.
You’ll find everything from seven-figure trading cards to wonderful dollar cards. One of my favorite National finds came last year in the form of a $10 Rob Mackowiak printing plate card. Dealers are typically willing to cut you a better deal if you can pay cash, especially if you buy multiple items. Also be mindful to check out every dealer on the show floor if you have the time. Some of the better deals I’ve gotten have come from people set up in the back corners of the show, so you never know where your next treasure may come from.
3. Have a great time
Above all else, the National is a fun event that’s meant to showcase the best of the sports card world. I consider it to be a bucket list event for any collector. Almost every fellow hobbyist I’ve ever spoken to has good memories of going, or wishes they could attend one.
2022 National Sports Collectors Convention Attendee Guide
Kelsey’s ability to bring hobby coverage to the mainstream sports fan has been a true asset. GTS is happy to feature his thoughts on collecting in Hobby Musings. The opinions expressed are his and do not necessarily reflect those of GTS Distribution.
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