Sports Card News

Shohei Ohtani’s explosive talent on the baseball field has once again made headlines, this time with his 200th Major League Baseball home run. During the matchup between the Dodgers and the Tigers in Detroit, Ohtani belted a home run that ended up in the hands of a fortunate Tigers fan, adding a unique twist to an already remarkable achievement.

The lucky fan in question, Erik Wynkoop, found himself in the right place at the right time as the historic ball bounced near him during the game. With a quick reaction, Wynkoop managed to secure the prized possession, becoming the owner of Ohtani’s 200th home run ball.

In a subsequent interview with Bally Sports, Wynkoop nonchalantly recounted the moment of catching the ball, downplaying its significance despite its likely considerable value. Speaking with reporter Trevor Thompson, Wynkoop displayed a laid-back attitude, indicating that he would be willing to part with the ball if Ohtani himself expressed interest in it. His simple remark, “It’s just a ball,” highlights his casual approach to owning a piece of baseball history.

The relaxed and unassuming attitude exhibited by Wynkoop adds an intriguing dimension to the story surrounding Ohtani’s milestone home run. While baseball memorabilia often holds significant monetary and sentimental value for fans and collectors alike, Wynkoop’s response serves as a refreshing reminder that, at the end of the day, it is the moments and experiences that truly matter in the world of sports.

As Shohei Ohtani continues to shatter records and redefine what is achievable on the baseball diamond, the interaction between the star player and the fan who caught his 200th home run ball stands out as a memorable and heartwarming moment. Whether the ball remains in Wynkoop’s possession or finds its way back to Ohtani, the story of its journey highlights the enduring connection between athletes and their fans, making it a cherished part of baseball folklore.

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New Zealand Rugby and Fanatics have recently announced an exciting global partnership that is set to revolutionize the retail experience for fans of the Teams in Black. The collaboration between these two powerhouses in the sports industry promises to provide an extensive range of merchandise and enhance the shopping experience for supporters worldwide.

This groundbreaking omnichannel retail and merchandising partnership between New Zealand Rugby and Fanatics extends through significant events such as the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup, as well as the 2025 and 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cups. Fans will have access to official merchandise including the 2024 adidas jerseys for both the All Blacks and Black Ferns, replica kits, training gear, and a diverse array of licensed products.

With the All Blacks and Black Ferns boasting millions of fans globally, this partnership aims to increase their visibility, especially in markets like North America and Asia. Leveraging Fanatics’ expansive global network, which includes offices and manufacturing facilities in over 80 locations and shipping to more than 180 countries, this collaboration is poised to take the Teams in Black to new heights.

Fanatics will take the reins in managing New Zealand Rugby’s official eCommerce store, www.allblackshop.com, and enhance the in-stadium retail experience at home tests across New Zealand and internationally. Their exclusive role as the master licensee for New Zealand Rugby consumer products means that they will create, distribute, and sell an extensive range of premium merchandise for the All Blacks and Black Ferns.

Craig Fenton, Chief Executive at New Zealand Rugby Commercial, expressed his excitement about the partnership, highlighting the opportunity to provide fans worldwide with an expanded retail range and a superior shopping experience. Stephen Dowling, President of International at Fanatics, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their commitment to delivering the best shopping experience for fans of the Teams in Black globally.

By teaming up with Fanatics, New Zealand Rugby joins an esteemed list of rugby partners under the Fanatics umbrella, further solidifying their commitment to enhancing the fan experience. Fanatics’ impressive portfolio includes partnerships with renowned sports entities like the English RFU, Rugby Australia, Six Nations Rugby, and the British & Irish Lions, as well as a wide array of sports clubs and leagues across the globe.

The collaboration between New Zealand Rugby and Fanatics is set to provide fans with an unparalleled shopping experience, offering an extensive range of merchandise to proudly support the All Blacks and Black Ferns. With a shared goal of enhancing fan engagement and providing top-notch products, this partnership is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world of sports merchandising.

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Richmond Football Club, a powerhouse in the AFL with an impressive tally of 13 premierships under their belt, is taking the global fan experience to new heights with an exclusive partnership with Fanatics, a renowned digital sports platform. This collaboration is set to redefine how Tigers supporters around the world engage with and showcase their allegiance to the club.

By teaming up with Fanatics, the Tigers have introduced a refreshed online store and revamped in-person club shop, offering fans the most diverse selection of officially licensed merchandise in the history of the club. Whether it’s guernseys, training gear, headwear, or fan apparel, the assortment available caters to every fan’s needs. The Roar Store, situated at Punt Road, has now transitioned to being operated solely by Fanatics, ensuring a seamless shopping experience for all supporters.

The newly unveiled online Roar Store leverages Fanatics’ advanced Cloud Commerce Platform (CCP) to provide Tigers fans with an unparalleled shopping journey. From high-resolution product displays to a streamlined checkout process, multiple language options, and real-time updates on new items, the platform is designed to elevate the online shopping experience for fans, whether they are browsing from their computers or mobile devices.

This strategic partnership with Fanatics marks a significant move in the Australian market for the global sports platform. Fanatics’ foray Down Under began with a groundbreaking league-wide agreement with the AFL last year and has since expanded to include collaborations with other sports entities like the Essendon Football Club and Rugby Australia, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing the fan experience across various sporting realms.

Dino Imbriano, the General Manager of Consumer Business at Richmond Football Club, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the shared goal of engaging Tigers fans worldwide: “In teaming up with Fanatics, a global leader in the field, we sought to find innovative ways to connect with our dedicated fan base. The launch of our new online and in-person stores, coupled with an extended range of merchandise, is sure to set a new benchmark in the league.”

Tyler Emsden, the Director of Business Development for Australia & New Zealand at Fanatics, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative effort to provide Tigers fans with an exceptional retail experience globally: “Partnering with Richmond Football Club, a like-minded organization that prioritizes excellence and fan-centric values, is truly exciting for us. Our local team in Melbourne is dedicated to working closely with the club to ensure that Tigers fans worldwide can access top-notch merchandise and proudly display their support for the Yellow and Black.”

The partnership between Richmond Football Club and Fanatics signifies a groundbreaking era for Tigers fans, offering an unrivaled shopping experience and an extensive array of merchandise to cater to fans’ diverse needs worldwide. With a focus on providing quality products and enhancing fan engagement, this collaboration is set to elevate the fan experience to new heights.

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The 44th National Sports Collectors Convention (NSCC) sparkles with excitement as it gears up for a special charity auction to be held during the 2024 event, with all proceeds benefiting three Cleveland area charities. Hosted by Pristine Auction, the auction will kick off on July 20, 2024, and run through July 27, 2024. Bidders can participate through a designated link, with select items also on display at the convention.

The auction boasts 44 exclusive items, each more enticing than the last. Among the highlights are two original paintings by renowned sports artists, with each painting estimated to be valued between $10,000 to $15,000. These unique pieces are sure to captivate sports enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The charity auction features a wide array of items, from signed sports memorabilia to exclusive artworks. A Mickey Mantle signed baseball, a LeBron James portrait painting, and a rare 1955 Bowman Mantle SGC 3 card are just a few of the standout items up for auction. Sports legends such as Bird, Magic, Jordan, Namath, and Babe Ruth make appearances through their iconic collectibles, adding an air of prestige to the event.

But it’s not just sports memorabilia that takes the spotlight at this auction. Music lovers will find delight in Taylor Swift and Bon Jovi signed framed cuts, while art aficionados can bid on a Roberto Clemente lithograph. The auction bridges various interests, ensuring there is something for everyone to bid on and treasure.

Contributing to this noble cause are the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Inc., and The City Mission, two impactful local charities working tirelessly to support the Cleveland community. The Greater Cleveland Food Bank focuses on providing nutritious food to those in need, aiming to bridge the meal gap and empower individuals through education and support. Meanwhile, The City Mission aids individuals facing homelessness by offering tailored programs to help them build stable futures.

The NSCC expresses its gratitude for the generous support received for this charity auction. Through the collective effort of bidders, collectors, and sports enthusiasts, the event aims to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need within the Cleveland community.

As the 2024 National Sports Collectors Convention draws nearer, the anticipation for the charity auction builds. An opportunity to acquire exclusive memorabilia while contributing to meaningful causes, the event embodies the spirit of giving back and sharing the love for sports collectibles. Join the NSCC in making a difference and celebrating the joy of sports memorabilia at the upcoming convention.

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The highly anticipated 2024 National Sports Collectors Convention is just around the corner, and collectors are buzzing with excitement. One of the most sought-after aspects of the convention is the Redemption/Trade program offered by Panini, a prominent name in the trading card industry. This year, Panini Customer Service is introducing a new approach to streamline the process and enhance the experience for attendees – an appointment-only system.

To secure a slot for the Redemption/Trade program, collectors must engage in the Pre-Registration process conducted by Panini Customer Service. The pre-registration opened on July 2 at 10 am CT, marking the beginning of an exclusive opportunity for collectors to redeem their non-expired redemptions and trade items that have been in their possession for a minimum of 120 days.

It’s essential to note that walk-up attendees without appointments will not be accommodated, emphasizing the necessity of pre-registering for a slot. The Panini team is dedicated to ensuring efficiency and satisfaction for all participants, hence the implementation of this structured system.

Appointment slots are available on specific dates throughout the convention, allowing attendees to choose a time that best fits their schedule. The distribution of slots is as follows:

– Wednesday, July 24, 2024: 60 slots

– Thursday, July 25, 2024: 92 slots

– Friday, July 26, 2024: 92 slots

– Saturday, July 27, 2024: 92 slots

– Sunday, July 28, 2024: 64 slots

Collectors are encouraged to mark their calendars and visit the Panini Events Page from July 2 onwards to schedule their appointment for the Redemption/Trade program. The opportunity to engage in this exclusive program promises a memorable and rewarding experience for all attendees.

As anticipation builds leading up to the convention, it’s crucial to remember that registration for appointments closes on Monday, July 15, 2024. Don’t miss out on this chance to interact directly with Panini and take advantage of the specialized services offered during the 2024 National Sports Collectors Convention. Secure your spot today and get ready for an unforgettable event filled with excitement and collectible treasures.

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Mark your calendars soccer enthusiasts, as Panini is about to drop a digital bombshell with the release of the 2023-24 Donruss Soccer collection on its Blockchain platform. On June 28 at 10 am CT, fans can dive into the world of soccer superstars with 4-card packs that highlight both club and national teams, featuring favorites like Argentina, the United States, England, Chelsea FC, and AC Milan. The collection will showcase renowned players such as Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, as well as emerging talents like Endrick and Mykhailo Mudryk.

Priced at $15 per pack, each pack will contain four digital cards, including three Optic Base or Rated Rookie Optic Base parallels and one Insert or Insert Parallel. This release introduces the highly anticipated KABOOM! insert to the soccer series, limited to #/49, which will set the stage for a crafting challenge involving Gold and Black KABOOM! parallels. Fans can also expect to find popular inserts like Pitch Kings, Net Marvels, and Crunch Time in their packs, adding to the excitement of the collection.

Collectors will have the chance to engage in rainbow collection challenges for Argyle and Dragon Scale Optic parallels, with inserts playing a crucial role in the pursuit of the coveted Night Moves insert. An enticing Crafting event will offer Red Insert parallel packs, adding a layer of strategy to the collection experience.

Pack Overview:

Total Packs Available: 26,033

Base Optic Parallels:

– Holo #/375

– Red #/250

– Blue #/99

– Velocity #/49

– Gold Power #/10

– Green #/5

– Black Pandora 1/1

Rated Rookies Optic Parallels:

– Holo #/371

– Red #/254

– Blue #/99

– Velocity #/49

– Gold Power #/10

– Green #/5

– Black Pandora 1/1

Insert Parallels:

– Net Marvels #/148 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Craftsmen #/148 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Zero Gravity #/148 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Celebration #/148 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Pitch Kings #/149 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Rookie Kings #/149 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– The Rookies #/149 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Crunch Time #/149 (Silver #/99, Gold #/10, Black 1/1)

– Kaboom #/49

This release is a dream come true for soccer fans and collectors, offering a unique opportunity to own digital cards of some of the biggest names in the sport. To be a part of this digital card revolution, head over to Panini’s Blockchain platform on June 28, secure your packs, and get ready to embark on thrilling collection challenges that will elevate your digital card collection to the next level.

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Celebrate the remarkable career milestones of basketball phenomenon Caitlin Clark with a special exclusive trading card set released by Panini America. Caitlin Clark, the standout athlete who has been making waves in the basketball world, now has the honor of being the only female athlete to have her own dedicated trading card collection.

This exclusive set, crafted in collaboration with Caitlin Clark herself, features a spectacular 15-card Highlights set that beautifully encapsulates the key moments of her career. Through this collection, collectors will have the opportunity to own cards that showcase the most iconic and memorable achievements of Clark’s journey in the sport.

Key Features of the Panini Exclusive Set

Caitlin Clark Collaboration: The trading card set is a result of Caitlin Clark’s collaboration with Panini, ensuring that every card perfectly captures the essence of her career milestones.

Generational Talent: Known for her exceptional scoring abilities and dominance on the court during her time at Iowa, Caitlin Clark has proven herself as a generational talent in the world of basketball.

Iconic Moments Highlighted in the Set

Record Breaker Card: One of the standout cards in the collection commemorates March 3, 2024, when Caitlin Clark achieved a historic feat by breaking the all-time scoring record in NCAA Division I college basketball during a game against the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Exciting Inserts

Reigning 3’s: This insert showcases Caitlin Clark’s signature deep three-pointers that have thrilled fans and left defenders in awe.

Additional Inserts: The set also includes inserts like College Contenders, Crunch Time, School Colors, and Campus Legends, highlighting different facets of Clark’s career.

Special Features of the Set

Chrome Cards: The collection features stunning Prizm Fearless and Mosaic Razzle Dazzle inserts that add a unique shine to the cards.

Rare Inserts: Keep an eye out for rare On-Campus inserts and randomly inserted autographs that make this collection even more special.

Where to Find the Collection

Retail Stores: The exclusive trading card set can be found at popular retail stores such as Target, Hy-Vee, and Walmart.

Online Purchase: For those unable to find it in stores, the collection is also available for purchase on Panini’s official website.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own this unique trading card set that pays tribute to a basketball superstar celebrated for her relentless effort and unmatched skill. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or a fan of Caitlin Clark, this Panini exclusive set is a must-have to honor and celebrate her iconic moments in the world of basketball.

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Attending sporting events is a popular pastime that brings excitement and joy to many people. However, for individuals with disabilities, navigating the challenges of crowded stadiums, loud noises, and complex environments can be daunting. Service dogs play a crucial role in providing assistance and support, enabling their handlers to enjoy these events with greater ease and confidence.

Access and Navigation

One of the primary benefits of having a service dog at a sporting event is the assistance they provide in accessing and navigating the venue. Crowded stadiums can be overwhelming, and service dogs are trained to help their handlers find their seats, avoid obstacles, and move through crowds safely. This is particularly important for individuals with visual impairments, mobility challenges, or other disabilities that make navigating large, busy spaces difficult.

Emotional Support and Anxiety Reduction

Sporting events can be loud and chaotic, which can trigger anxiety or stress for some individuals. Service dogs offer emotional support, providing a calming presence that helps mitigate anxiety. For those with conditions such as PTSD, autism, or severe anxiety, the presence of a service dog can make the difference between attending an event and staying home.

Medical Assistance

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that can be lifesaving in emergency situations. For individuals with medical conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, or severe allergies, service dogs can detect changes in their handler’s condition and alert them before a crisis occurs. At a sporting event, this early detection can prevent medical emergencies and ensure that the handler receives prompt medical attention if needed.

Enhanced Independence

Attending a sporting event with a service dog enhances the handler’s independence. Instead of relying on friends, family, or event staff for assistance, individuals with disabilities can rely on their service dogs to provide the support they need. This fosters a greater sense of autonomy and self-confidence, allowing them to participate more fully in the event.

Legal Rights and Accessibility

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are granted access to all public places, including sporting events. This means that handlers have the right to bring their service dogs into stadiums and arenas without facing discrimination. Event organizers are required to accommodate service dogs, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to the enjoyment of the event.

Tips for Attending Sporting Events with a Service Dog

Plan Ahead: Before attending the event, check the venue’s policies regarding service dogs. Ensure that the staff is aware of your service dog and any specific needs you may have.

Stay Calm: Sporting events can be overwhelming, so it’s important to remain calm and composed. Your service dog will look to you for cues, so maintaining a relaxed demeanor will help them stay focused on their tasks.

Bring Essentials: Pack necessary items for your service dog, such as water, snacks, and waste disposal bags. Ensure that your dog has a comfortable place to rest during the event.

Advocate for Your Rights: If you encounter any issues or resistance from event staff, calmly assert your rights under the ADA. Be prepared to provide information about your service dog’s role and the legal protections that apply.

Service dogs provide invaluable support to individuals with disabilities, enabling them to enjoy the excitement and camaraderie of sporting events. By offering assistance with navigation, emotional support, medical alerts, and enhanced independence, service dogs make it possible for their handlers to participate fully and safely in these events. Understanding the legal rights and practical considerations involved ensures a positive and inclusive experience for all attendees.

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In the fast-paced and ever-evolving realm of sports card collecting, Galaxy Rip Packs have emerged as the latest sensation, captivating enthusiasts with their unique blend of excitement, value, and mystery. These packs are revolutionizing the market, offering a thrilling experience that spans across all major sports, promising an unforgettable journey for collectors and fans alike.

Galaxy Rip Packs are meticulously curated to provide a diverse range of possibilities for collectors. Each pack contains one raw or graded sports card, with a floor value of just $0.01 and a ceiling that can exceed $1,500. The potential rewards are truly astonishing, with the chance to pull a card worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This element of unpredictability makes every pack opening a heart-pounding experience, keeping collectors on the edge of their seats.

The allure of Galaxy Rip Packs lies in their mystery and intrigue. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, the element of surprise is guaranteed to captivate. Each pack is a gateway to discovering your next prized possession, from rookies to legends, spanning all major sports. The thrill of not knowing what you’ll pull next is what makes Galaxy Rip Packs truly unique and exciting.

Galaxy Rip Packs feature cards from a wide array of sports, ensuring there’s something for every fan and collector. Each card, whether raw or graded, is chosen for its quality and potential value, making these packs a worthwhile addition to any collection. The potential to uncover a rare gem with a high value adds unparalleled excitement to the unboxing experience.

Galaxy Rip Packs have quickly garnered a dedicated following of sports card enthusiasts who revel in the anticipation and excitement of each unwrapping. Collectors share their discoveries, join conversations, and connect with a community that celebrates the joy of collecting. The shared experience of uncovering rare and valuable cards fosters a sense of camaraderie among collectors.

Embark on an adventure filled with mystery, value, and endless possibilities by getting your hands on Galaxy Rip Packs today! Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or simply enjoy the thrill of the chase, Galaxy Rip Packs are your ticket to an unforgettable experience. Unleash the excitement – your next great find is just a rip away!

Galaxy Rip Packs are transforming the sports card market with their unique combination of value, mystery, and excitement. They offer collectors a thrilling and unpredictable experience, making each pack opening a memorable event. Join the community of enthusiasts and discover the thrill of the unexpected with Galaxy Rip Packs today!

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Whatnot, a bustling marketplace for buying and selling unique items, has unveiled an exciting new feature to amp up the buyer-seller experience – the Rewards Club. This loyalty program is structured to simplify transactions, track interactions between users, and offer enticing rewards and acknowledgments, all while fostering a more engaging community spirit.

In a bid to create a more dynamic and interactive space for its users, Whatnot’s Rewards Club is fashioned as an achievement-based loyalty program that aims to cater to the needs of both buyers and sellers. Sellers are given an opportunity to expand their businesses by tracking buyer engagements and offering rewards, while buyers can look forward to a more personalized and rewarding shopping journey.

At the core of this initiative lies the flexibility and adaptability of the Rewards Club, recognizing that each seller’s business is vastly different. Sellers have the liberty to tailor the loyalty program to suit their particular community dynamics and business aspirations, thereby ensuring a more seamless and personalized experience for all parties involved.

The structure of the Rewards Club is divided into five tiers – Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond, each unlocking with a specified number of achievements determined by the seller. These achievements can encompass a range of activities such as watching shows, making purchases, or hitting a certain spending threshold, all contributing to the unlocking of various rewards and benefits at each tier level.

Members of the Rewards Club are entitled to an array of rewards and benefits as they climb up the tiers, including status badges, coupons for discounts or free shipping, and exclusive access to tier-specific shows. The program is designed to automatically enroll members upon completing the requisite achievements, rendering it accessible and hassle-free for both buyers and sellers.

To keep things fresh and engaging, the Rewards Club undergoes seasonal resets every three months, offering sellers the chance to revamp and enhance their offerings. This seasonal schedule allows sellers to recalibrate their programs according to the evolving needs of their community and business goals, ensuring a dynamic and evolving experience for users.

A standout feature of the Rewards Club is its customizable nature, aimed at catering to the diverse requirements of different sellers. With the freedom to set achievement thresholds and select rewards that align with their strategic objectives, sellers have the autonomy to shape their loyalty programs in a way that best serves their unique business needs.

Managing tiers and achievements is a straightforward process for sellers, who can initiate their program at any point during a season and make adjustments at the end of each cycle. The beta testing phase for the Rewards Club is currently underway until August 31, with Season 1 set to launch officially on September 1. Sellers have the option to modify their tiers and cancel their programs by reaching out to their Account Manager or Whatnot Support.

For sellers keen on jumping aboard the Rewards Club train, specific requirements must be met to qualify for participation. These include processing a minimum of 50 non-giveaway orders, earning over $1,000 on Whatnot, holding a seller position for at least 30 days, maintaining a seller rating of 4.8 or higher, and avoiding repeat violations.

Buyers are seamlessly integrated into the Rewards Club upon making a purchase from a seller, gaining access to coupons and rewards that can be managed through the Rewards Club overview page. Notably, purchases made using coupons are deemed final, adding a layer of transparency to the transaction process.

Achievements in the Rewards Club are measured based on the total amount spent, inclusive of taxes and shipping fees. However, discounts applied through coupons do not contribute towards spending achievements, ensuring a fair and consistent tracking system for all members.

Privacy and visibility preferences are paramount within the Rewards Club, giving members the option to display or conceal their Rewards Badges during live shows in line with their privacy choices. Should any queries or concerns arise regarding the Rewards Club, the Whatnot support team is readily available to provide assistance and address any issues that may crop up during the program rollout.

With its focus on enhancing buyer-seller interactions, fostering community engagement, and providing rewarding experiences for all users, Whatnot’s Rewards Club is poised to revolutionize the marketplace landscape. Join the club, unlock achievements, and embark on a journey filled with perks, recognition, and endless possibilities.

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