Sal's Hockey Autographs

Carey Price

2012-02-03T00:01:00.001-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 39
Percentage: 37%

Carey Price

Currently with the Montreal Canadiens.

Fan letter sent: December 19, 2011.

Autographs received: January 28, 2012.

Hell yes! Sometimes a long shot is still worth a try--because sometimes it pays off. Late last year, I sent a card to Montreal Canadiens' starting goalie Carey Price. A bit over a month later, I got it back--neatly signed in blue Sharpie marker.

I received this card the day before the All-Star Game, so I guess Price signed a bunch of fan mail over the All-Star break.

Don Cherry

2012-02-02T00:01:00.000-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 38
Percentage: 36%

Don Cherry

Retired player and former coach. Currently a commentator for CBC's Hockey Night in Canada

Fan letter sent: December 19, 2011.

Autographs received: January 26, 2012.

Don Cherry--former NHL Coach of the Year and longtime commentator on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada--autographed all 4 of my cards in black Sharpie marker. He even personalized them To Sal.

For my fellow Americans who are unfamiliar with Don Cherry, he is pretty much the John Madden of Hockey (as in the former Raiders' coach). Cherry wears flamboyant suit jackets and speaks his mind each week during his "Coach's Corner" segment on Hockey Night in Canada.

Cherry also threw in an additional photograph of him--and his dog Blue--during his coaching days with the Colorado Rockies.

On the photo, he wrote in silver Sharpie marker:

To Our Pal Sal
Don Cherry & Blue
(pawprint)

What a class act! Cherry signed all my cards, personalized them, threw in a signed photo and even got the dog to sign it too :)

Alex Auld

2012-01-30T22:26:00.000-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 37
Percentage: 35%

Alex Auld

Currently with the Ottawa Senators.

Fan letter sent: November 28, 2011.

Autographs received: January 23, 2012.

January 23 was a great day for TTMs. I received cards from Kevin Poulin, Joey MacDonald and Alex Auld--3 goalies.

Auld signed my cards in black Sharpie marker. This is the second time I wrote to him. The first time--way back in early 2007--was also successful.

Kevin Poulin

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 36
Percentage: 34%

Kevin Poulin

Currently with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (AHL).

Fan letter sent: December 27, 2011.

Autographs received: January 23, 2012.

Kevin Poulin was a part of the Islanders' revolving door goaltender lineup last season that included 5 other goaltenders. He saw action in 10 games and was included in a few sets late last year.

Poulin nicely signed my 2 cards in blue Sharpie marker and added his number (60).

Joey MacDonald

2012-01-26T00:01:00.000-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 35
Percentage: 33%

Joey MacDonald

Currently with the Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL).

Fan letter sent: December 27, 2011.

Autographs received: January 23, 2012.

In the past 10 years. Joey MacDonald has spent most of his time in the AHL and seen only spot duty in the NHL. However, he did play in 49 games for the New York Islanders in 2008-09. He is currently playing for the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American League.

MacDonald signed my two cards in black Sharpie marker and added his uniform number. I especially like the way he circled 29 on the Maple Leafs card.

Ron Hextall

2012-01-24T00:01:00.000-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 34
Percentage: 32%

Ron Hextall

Retired player. Currently the Assistant GM of the Los Angeles Kings.

Fan letter sent: December 19, 2011.

Autographs received: January 21, 2012.

Ron Hextall was one of my favorite goalies in the 1990s. He was the playoff MVP in 1987 (even though the Flyers lost the Stanley Cup), he got into fights with opposing players and he even scored a goal. Twice!

Hextall signed my four cards in black Sharpie marker. He always has been fan-friendly when it comes to signing autographs through the mail. He signed some cards for me back in the mid-1990s, and again in 2009.

Interestingly, he added "Best Wishes" on the 1991-92 Upper Deck card and "All the Best" on the 1994-95 Pinnacle card. But I have no idea what he wrote on the 2010-11 All-Goalies card (bottom right). Does anyone have any idea what Hextall might have written on that card?

Artem Anisimov

2012-01-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

Artem Anisimov

Currently with the New York Rangers.

Signed insert card.

Purchased at a card shop on January 13, 2012.

I bought 2 autographed Champ's minis last week--one of Ville Leino and this one of Artem Anisimov. Although these cards are small, they are signed on-card and in blue Sharpie marker. But you have to wonder how "nice" these autographs really are. I mean, who really could do an "every-letter" signature on one of these? I don't think I could.

Earlier this season, Anisimov made headlines when celebrated a goal by holding his stick like a rifle and pretending to "shoot" at the Tampa Bay Lightning net. Of course, this angered the Lightning players, and several fights broke out on the ice. For those who have not seen "the celebration"--or need a refresher--I've included the video below:

So I have to ask...do you think this goal celebration really excessive? Did the Tampa Bay Lightning players overreact? And why is it OK for Alexander Ovechkin to do an "over the top" goal celebration, but wrong for any other player to do so? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this.

Ville Leino

2012-01-20T00:27:00.001-06:00

Ville Leino

Currently with the Buffalo Sabres.

Signed insert card.

Purchased at a card shop on January 13, 2012.

Ville Leino is with the Buffalo Sabres this season. He had a career year with the Philadelphia Flyers last year--53 points in 81 games--but is on pace for around 23 points this season. This card is from the 2009-10 Champ's Set. I bought it from my local card shop last week. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Click on the image to view larger.

Victor Hedman

2012-01-19T00:01:00.035-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 33
Percentage: 31%

Victor Hedman

Currently with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Fan letter sent: October 17, 2011.

Autographs received: January 12, 2012.

Victor Hedman was the 2nd overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. He autographed my card in blue Sharpie marker. He also included a very nice form letter thanking me for my support.

Alex Stalock

2012-01-18T00:01:00.012-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 32
Percentage: 30%

Alex Stalock

Currently with the Worcester Sharks (AHL).

Fan letter sent: December 19, 2011.

Autographs received: January 12, 2012.

Alex Stalock appeared in 1 game last season with the San Jose Sharks. Currently, he is with the Worcester Sharks rehabbing an injury. He signed my 2 cards in black Sharpie marker.

Ben Bishop

2012-01-17T00:01:00.002-06:00

Ben Bishop

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 31
Percentage: 29%

Currently with the Peoria Rivermen (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 28, 2011.

Autograph received: January 12, 2012.

Ben Bishop is a prospect with the St. Louis Blues organization. He has appeared in 13 games with the Blues thus far, but has spent most of his time in the AHL with the Peoria Rivermen. Bishop stands 6-foot-7, which I believe makes him the tallest-ever professional goalie.

Anyway, Bishop signed my Panini All Goalies card in black Sharpie marker. I also had success when I wrote to him last season.

Johan Hedberg

2012-01-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

Johan Hedberg

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 30
Percentage: 28%

Currently with the New Jersey Devils.

Fan letter sent: December 21, 2011.

Autographs received: January 10, 2012.

Johan "Moose" Hedberg autographed all 3 cards sent in black Sharpie marker. The first two cards are from Sweden (Globe and Upper Deck Swedish Elite) and the third is from the 2010-11 Panini All Goalies Set.

I did not write to Hedberg c/o the Devils because I heard that the players are not given their fan mail (I usually get back a form letter "signed" by GM Lou Lamirello). So instead, I wrote to Hedberg at his home address. Thanks to fellow blogger JonWayne for providing me the address.

Jordan Pearce

2012-01-10T00:01:00.001-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 29
Percentage: 27%

Jordan Pearce

Currently with the Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL).

Fan letter sent: December 21, 2011.

Autographs received: January 7, 2012.

My first return of 2012. Jordan Pearce has appeared as a backup goalie for the Detroit Red Wings in 2010-11, so he was included as a rookie in some sets (even though he didn't actually play in a game). He signed my two cards in thin black marker, and added his uniform number (36) after his name. Pearce is currently playing for the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League.

Contest Update

2012-01-05T22:46:00.001-06:00

Here are 4 Chicago Blackhawks 1990-91 team schedules. I got these signed when I attended the team's annual "Skate with the Hawks" event in 1990. They are all autographed in blue Sharpie marker.

CONTEST TIME: I asked who the autographs above belonged to. Well, a lot of you knew the answers.

The winner is...

Chris

...who was the first to correctly name the autographs: Mike Hudson, Jocelyn Lemieux, Stu Grimson and E.J. McGuire. (I honestly thought McGuire was a trick question, since he was an assistant coach. And what kid would want an autograph from an assistant coach? Oh right, 15 year old me, that's who.)

However, I am going to also award prizes to:

Casey (Drop the Gloves)

Sebastien

Jrazy

JonWayne

Captain Canuck

Chris and Jrazy, email me your address and what your favorite team is:

SJB at PUCKJUNK dot COM

I have addresses and know favorite teams for the rest of you guys.

Next time, I'll have to make up a harder contest.

Oh, and comments have been enabled again. Thanks for playing.

Show-and-Tell: Joe Sakic autographed "Denver" postcard

2012-01-04T10:29:00.001-06:00

Here is another oddball signed item from the 1990s. In February of 1999, my sister went to Denver to see the Pittsburgh Penguins play the Colorado Avalanche. During her stay, Joe Sakic was signing autographs at a car dealership in Denver, so my sister got this postcard autographed for me. I think she told me that she couldn't find anything hockey-related on short notice, so this photo of the Denver skyline would have to do.

My sister even saved the newspaper clipping advertising Sakic's autograph session. Peter Forsberg was also signing autographs, but it was at the exact same time and date and across town, so getting autographs from both wasn't possible.

Show-and-Tell: Ed Olczyk 4" x 6" photo

2012-01-03T00:01:00.004-06:00

This week and next, I am teaching 3 sections of a blogging class at Columbia College in Chicago. It is a class I developed called "Intro to Blogging," where I teach college students how to (hopefully) make a successful blog.

Anyway, these classes are going to take up most of my free time over the next two weeks, so I might not update this blog as often as I'd like to.

I also don't have any TTMs in the queue to show off, so I will be focusing on some odds and ends from the 1990s.

Here is a 4" x 6" photograph of former NHL player and current color analyst Ed Olczyk. I purchased this photo at a card show probably in 1990 or 1991. The guy I bought it from took the photo himself and later got it signed. I think I paid $4 for it. Yes, I still remember the price I paid--when you are 15 with no job, a $4 counts as a "big" purchase.

Richard Petiot

2012-01-02T00:55:00.000-06:00

Richard Petiot

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 28
Percentage: 26%

Currently with the Norfolk Admiralss (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autograph received: December 31, 2011.

My last TTM success of 2011. Richard Petiot has played in a handful of NHL games with the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings and Tampa Bay Lightning. He signed my card with either a dry erase marker or a marker that was almost out of ink.

RTS - Doug Smail (for a 3rd time)

2012-01-01T00:01:00.025-06:00

Doug Smail

Retired player.

Fan letter sent: December 21, 2011

RTS Received: December 31, 2011

Let's ring in the NEW YEAR with a RETURN TO SENDER!!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!!

This is the third time I have received an RTS when writing to Doug Smail. A reader of this blog suggested I try an address in Colorado, but unfortunately it did not work (it was marked INSUFFICIENT ADDRESS). My previous 2 attempts--one sent to Nevada and the other Texas--were from late 2010. My very first attempt, from 2009, was successful though.

Mike McKenna

2011-12-31T16:17:00.000-06:00

Mike McKenna

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 105
Successes: 27
Percentage: 25%

Currently with the Binghamton Senators (AHL).

Fan letter sent: December 19, 2011.

Autograph received: December 30, 2011.

Mike McKenna has played for the Tampa Bay Lightning (15 games) and the New Jersey Devils (2 games). Currently, he is playing for the Binghamton Senators in the American Hockey League. McKenna signed my card in black Sharpie marker.

Scott Clemmensen

2011-12-24T15:25:00.002-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 90
Successes: 26
Percentage: 28%

Scott Clemmensen

Currently with the Florida Panthers.

Fan letter sent: December 5, 2011.

Autographs received: December 23, 2011.

Florida Panthers goalie Scott Clemmensen signed both of my cards with a fading black Sharpie marker. Which is kind of ironic, because the last time Clemmensen signed my cards he also used a marker that was running out of ink. What are the odds, right?

Bernie "Boom-Boom" Geoffrion

2011-12-21T19:04:00.000-06:00

Bernie "Boom-Boom" Geoffrion

Deceased player.Elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972.

Acquired at The National Sports Collectors' Convention, August 5, 2011.

Here is a photograph of Montreal Canadiens all-time great Bernie "Boom Boom" Geoffrion. The photo is 11" x 14" and signed in black Sharpie marker. It also comes with a PSA/DNA certificaton.

On the last day of The National--which was held in Chicago during the beginning of August--I purchased a large amount of cards from one dealer: some sets and oddball items, as well as a slew of team-issue sets. The dealer was so happy about my purchase that he threw in a bunch of extras.

Of course, an autograph like this is hard to classify as a "throw-in" or an "extra." Bernie Geoffrion is in the Hall of Fame, and also passed away in 2006. I never did write to Geoffrion when he was alive, so having a large, signed photo of him is pretty awesome.

Jamie Matthews

2011-12-20T00:01:00.007-06:00

Jamie Matthews

Retired player.

Fan letter sent: August 3, 2011.

Autographs received: December 17, 2011.

Jamie Matthews played 5 seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Sudbury Wolves. He was the second round pick of the Chicago Blackhaws in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft, but did not make it with the 'Hawks. Two years later, he was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the 11th round of the 1993 draft, but again was sent back to junior hockey. (For more on his career, check out this article.)

I remember getting the 1991-92 Upper Deck card above, anticipating when Matthews might make it to the 'Hawks. Alas, that day never came.

Matthews was so kind as to autograph all 4 of my cards in black Sharpie marker.

Show-and-Tell: a TTM from 1971

2011-12-19T00:01:00.002-06:00

In 1971, my mother Karen, who was 20 at the time, wrote to a 20-year old rookie on the Montreal Canadiens named Guy Lafeur. Later that year, he wrote her back, enclosing the autographed team postcard you see below:

Click on the images to see larger.

Lafleur signed the front in blue ballpoint pen. It says:

For KarineWith my Best RegardsGuy Lafleur

On the back, he wrote:

Your Friendly Guy Lafleur

When I became a hockey fan in early 1989, my mother gave me all of her old hockey memorabilia,which included some old newspapers and magazines, a scrapbook dedicated to Guy Lafleur and this postcard. At the time, Guy Lafleur was making a comeback with the New York Rangers.

My mom even saved the envelope, which Lafleur addressed himself.

Click on the image to see larger.

The envelope is postmarked November 29, 1971 (November is represented by the Roman numerals XI). I also find it interesting that there is no return address, just a logo and the name "Guy Lafleur." Evan as a rookie, Lafleur was so popular that he didn't NEED a return address.

It's cool to think that my mom was sending out TTM autograph requests 40 years ago (!). I guess you can say that TTM autograph collecting is in my blood.

Adam Burish

2011-12-18T00:01:00.002-06:00

Adam Burish

Currently with the Dallas Stars.

Card acquired in a trade on November 19, 2011.

Fellow collector and blogger Justin G. (The Hopeful Chase) was kind enough to trade me this Adam Burish autograph. I'm not sure what I gave him in exchange; I think a few Panini stickers of Lightning players or something like that. This card is signed in thin black marker.

Burish was a member of the 2010 Chicago Blackhawks--the team that won the Stanley Cup. He has since moved on to the Dallas Stars. He is one of the many players from that team that I miss. The old group was a lot of fun: Burish, Dustin Byfuglien, Kris Versteeg. Though the 'Hawks are tied for first right now, they are not the same FUN team they used to be.

Brandon Yip

2011-12-17T00:01:00.004-06:00

Brandon Yip

Currently with the Colorado Avalanche.

Signed insert card.

Acquired via Panini redemption on December 15, 2011.

Over the summer, I bought a box of 2010-11 Panini Luxury suite and got a redemption card for a Brandon Yip autographed rookie card. I did not get around to redeeming the card until about 2 weeks ago. Since Panini had the card in stock, I got it pretty quickly. It is hard-signed in blue Sharpie marker and serial numbered 173 / 499. Of course, I used the term "signed" loosely--he really just initialed the card.

Tomas Tatar

2011-12-16T00:01:00.001-06:00

Tomas Tatar

Currently with the Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL0.

Card acquired in a trade in December 2011.

Earlier this month, fellow TTM hockey collector JonWayne and I swapped signed cards of Carter Hutton. He also tossed in a few extras, including the last card I needed to complete my 2010-11 Score Hockey set and this signed card of Detroit Red Wings prospect Tomas Tatar. This card is nicely signed in black Sharpie marker.

Carter Hutton

2011-12-15T00:01:00.003-06:00

Carter Hutton

Currently splitting the season between the Toledo Walleye (ECHL) and the Rockford Icehogs (AHL).

Card acquired in a trade in December 2011.

Last month, I sent minor league goaltender Carter Hutton two cards: a 2010-11 All Goalies card and the 2010-11 Donruss card you see here.

However, Hutton accidentally swapped my cards with those of fellow TTM hockey collector JonWayne, so while I still got an All Goalies card I instead had a 2010-11 Between Pipes of Hutton.

It is a good thing that Jon and I read each others' blogs, because we realized what happened and traded with each other, so now I have my Donruss card,Jon has his Between the Pipes card, and everyone is happy.

Hutton was a backup for the San Jose Sharks last season, but didn't get to play in a game. There was a nice article about him on the San Jose Sharks website. After reading it, I see how hard this guy has worked to get to where he is, and hope that one day he does get to play in the NHL.

Jason Demers

2011-12-14T00:01:00.003-06:00

Jason Demers

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 77
Successes: 25
Percentage: 32%

Currently with the San Jose Sharks.

Fan letter sent: October 31, 2011.

Autograph received: December 5, 2011.

Jason Demers is in his third season with the San Jose Sharks. He autographed my 2009-10 O-Pee-Chee hockey card in blue Sharpie marker. Turnaround time was only a scant 35 days.

Zdeno Chara

2011-12-13T00:01:00.027-06:00

432 Days Round Trip!!!

Zdeno Chara

Currently with the Boston Bruins.

Fan letter sent: September 27, 2010.

Autographs received: December 2, 2011.

Superstar defender Zdeno Chara signed two of my cards in thin blue Sharpie marker, and kept the other two cards: (2006-07 Upper Deck and 2008-09 O-Pee-Chee. When I wrote to Chara back in 2009, he kept two cards then, one of them also being from the 2006-07 Upper Deck set. I guess he really likes his 2006-07 Upper Deck card.

This success took over one year. I sent out my cards before the 2010-11 season started, and got them back 432 days later. Remember, collecting autographs through-the-mail is not for the impatient.

Chris Pronger

2011-12-12T00:01:00.001-06:00

Chris Pronger

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 75
Successes: 24
Percentage: 32%

Currently with the Philadelphia Flyers.

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autographs received: December 2, 2011.

Chris Pronger signed 3 of my cards in black Sharpie marker, but kept the 4th card that I sent--a 1993-94 Fleer Power Play card.

Upon mentioning this to my girlfriend, she humorously retorted "Chris Pronger is 6-foot-6. If he wants to keep one of your cards, he's gonna."

Point taken.

A few things are notable about this TTM request.

This was a very quick turnaround time--just under a month. Usually, it has taken 6 to 12 months for a response from Pronger. But since he is injured, he is probably using some of his free time to answer fan mail.

This is my third success with Pronger, who I also wrote to in 2007 and 2009.

Pronger did not personalize my cards this time, whereas the last two times he did.

Overall, a great return from one of the NHL's best defensemen.

James Wright

2011-12-11T00:01:00.001-06:00

James Wright

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 75
Successes: 23
Percentage: 30%

Currently with the San Antonio Rampage (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 17, 2011.

Autograph received: December 2, 2011.

On the day I received this return from James Wright--December 2, 2011--he was traded. What a coincidence. I wrote to him when he was playing for the Norfolk Admirals, my return envelope was postmarked NORFOLK, VA, but as I write this he is now with the San Antonio Rampage. The Tampa Bay Lightning traded his rights to the Florida Panthers.

Wright signed my card in black Sharpie marker and added his number 43 below his autograph.

Ron Sutter

2011-12-10T13:36:00.000-06:00

Ron Sutter

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions on November 19, 2011.

Ron Sutter played 18 seasons in the NHL and is probably best remembered for being the captain of the Philadelphia Flyers.

I got this card in a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions hockey cards. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Matt Climie

2011-12-09T00:01:00.004-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 75
Successes: 22
Percentage: 29%

Matt Climie

Currently with the Chicago Wolves (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 17, 2011.

Autographs received: November 30, 2011.

Matt Climie is currently playing for the Chicago Wolves, the top farm team of the Vancouver Canucks. He signed one card in blue Sharpie marker and the other in black Sharpie marker.

Danny Bois

2011-12-08T00:01:00.001-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent:75
Successes: 21
Percentage: 28%

Greetingsfrom Austria!

Danny Bois

Currently with the Salzburg Red Bulls (Austria).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autographs received: November 28, 2011.

Danny Bois played in the AHL from 2005 to 2010 with the Binghamton Senators and the Rockford Icehogs. He played in one game for the Ottawa Senators during the 2007-08 season, racking up 7 penalty minutes in his first, last and only NHL game. Last season, he went to play for the Salzburg Red Bulls. He is playing there this season too.

Bois signed my two cards in thin black marker. It is always nice to get autographs from a pro hockey player, but it's extra-nice when it's an overseas return.

Terry O'Reilly

2011-12-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

Terry O'Reilly

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions on November 19, 2011.

"Terrible" Terry O'Reilly was a favorite of Boston Bruins fans. I never saw him play, but I remember the character Happy Gilmore (from the film of the same name) saying that O'Reilly was his favorite player, so he must have been AWESOME. O'Reilly spent his entire career (1972-1985) with the Boston Bruins.

I always wondered why O'Reilly retired in 1985. At 34, he seemed like he had a lot of hockey left in him. And 30 points in the 63 games isn't bad for a tough guy, either.

I got this card in a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions hockey cards. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Rob Klinkhammer

2011-12-06T00:01:00.004-06:00

Rob Klinkhammer

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 20
Percentage: 29%

Currently with the Binghamton Senators (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 17, 2011.

Autograph received: November 25, 2011.

Rob Klinkhammer skated in one game last season for the Chicago Blackhawks.

I got this card back a few days before Klinkhammer was traded by Chicago to Ottawa. He has since been assigned to Ottawa's AHL affiliate in Binghamton.

Klinkhammer autographed my card in blue Sharpie marker.

Ted Dent

2011-12-05T00:01:00.013-06:00

Brian Connelly

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 19
Percentage: 27%

Currently the Head Coach of the Rockford Icehogs (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 17, 2011.

Autograph received: November 25, 2011.

Ted Dent was an assistant coach with the Icehogs the past four seasons (and with the Norfolk Admirals for one year, too). This year, he's getting his shot as a head coach in the AHL. Dent signed my card in black Sharpie marker.

Brian Connelly

2011-12-04T00:01:00.004-06:00

Brian Connelly

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 18
Percentage: 26%

Currently with the Rockford Icehogs (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 17, 2011.

Autograph received: November 25, 2011.

Defenseman Brian Connelly is in his 3rd full season of pro hockey. He is currently with the Rockford Icehogs, the top farm team of the Chicago Blackhawks. Connelly signed my card in black Sharpie marker and added 10, his uniform number, under his autograph.

Chris Mueller

2011-12-03T00:01:00.001-06:00

Chris Mueller

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 17
Percentage: 25%

Currently with the Milwaukee Admirals (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 17, 2011.

Autograph received: November 25, 2011.

Center Chris Mueller played in 15 games for the Nashville Predators last season. Currently, he is playing for the Pred's top affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL. Mueller signed my card in black Sharpie marker, and added 53, his number with the Preds.

Martin St. Pierre

2011-12-02T00:01:00.009-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 16
Percentage: 23%

One WeekRound Trip!!!

Martin St. Pierre

Currently with the Springfield Falcons (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 14, 2011.

Autographs received: November 21, 2011.

One week was all it took to get this return from current AHLer Martin St. Pierre.
He signed both of my cards in blue Sharpie marker.

Happy Friday!!!

Evan Brophey

2011-12-01T00:01:00.003-06:00

Evan Brophey

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 15
Percentage: 22%

Currently with the Lake Erie Monsters (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autographs received: November 19, 2011.

November 19 was a great TTM day for me. I received 4 returns on that day--Joe Fallon, Pete MacArthur, Brayden Holtby and Evan Brophey.

Evan Brophey is a 5th year pro who has spent the past 4 seasons with the Rockford Icehogs of the AHL. He played in 1 game for the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2010-11 season.

Brophey autographed my 3 cards in blue Sharpie marker. Actually, it looks more like he initialed the cards "EB" then he did sign them. He also added his jersey number--7 for the Rockford cards and 47 on the Score card that shows him with the Blackhawks.

Braden Holtby

2011-11-30T00:01:00.005-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 14
Percentage: 20%

Braden Holtby

Currently with the Hershey Bears (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 31, 2011.

Autographs received: November 19, 2011.

Braden Holtby playedin 14 games for the Washington Capitals last season. He is currently in the AHL with the Hershey Bears. Holtby signed both cards sent in black Sharpie marker.

Check out this enthusiastic celebration by Holtby, who made the last save in the shootout to help the Hershey Bears beat the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins. Apparently, the Baby Pens were pissed by Holtby's "air guitar."

Pete MacArthur

2011-11-29T00:01:00.003-06:00

Pete MacArthur

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 13
Percentage: 19%

Currently with the Los Vegas Wranglers (ECHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autograph received: November 19, 2011.

On November 19, I got back 2 returns from 2 members of the Las Vegas Wranglers--goalie Joe Fallon and winger Pete MacArthur.

MacArthur signed my card in black Sharpie marker.

Joe Fallon

2011-11-28T00:01:00.003-06:00

Joe Fallon

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 12
Percentage: 17%

Currently with the Los Vegas Wranglers (ECHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autograph received: November 19, 2011.

Goaltender Joe Fallon has split the past 3 seasons between playing in the AHL and in the ECHL. He was with the Rockford Icehogs--the AHL affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks--for a while, but I think he's currently under contract with the Las Vegas Wranglers of the ECHL.

Fallon autographed my card in silver Sharpie marker.

Tim Kerr

2011-11-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

Tim Kerr

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions on November 5, 2011.

Tim Kerr played 13 seasons in the NHL--11 with the Philadelphia Flyers, 1 with the New York Rangers and 1 with the Hartford Whalers.

Kerr was also claimed by the San Jose Sharks in the 1991 expansion draft, but then traded right away to the Rangers. I wonder why the Sharks traded away Kerr so quickly; he scored 50 or more goals in 4 consecutive seasons, and would have been a top-line player for the Sharks.

I got this card in a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions hockey cards. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Brent Sutter

2011-11-26T18:51:00.000-06:00

Brent Sutter

Retired player. Currently the Head Coach of the Calgary Flames.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions on November 5, 2011.

Brent Sutter played in the NHL from 1981 to 1998 with the New York Islanders (10 1/2 seasons) and the Chicago Blackhawks (6 1/2 seasons). Now, he's the head coach of the Calgary Flames.

I got this card in a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions hockey cards. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Mark Howe

2011-11-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

Mark Howe

Retired player. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 2011.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions on November 5, 2011.

Mark Howe is one of the four players who was inducted into the hockey Hall of Fame this fall. He played 6 seasons in the World Hockey Association and an additional 15 seasons in the National Hockey League.

I got this card in a pack of 2011-12 Parkhurst Champions hockey cards. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Andrew Brunette

2011-11-25T10:55:00.000-06:00

Andrew Brunette

Currently with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

This is the final card that Casey (Drop the Gloves) gave me for coming in second in his blog's contest.

Andrew Brunette has played in the NHL since 1995. He is presently with the Chicago Blackhawks, and also played for the Minnesota Wild, Colorado Avalanche, Atlanta Thrashers, Nashville Predators and Washington Capitals.

Tommy Albelin

2011-11-24T00:01:00.018-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 11
Percentage: 16%

Tommy Albelin

Retired player. Currently the Assistant Coach of the Albany Devils (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autographs received: November 17, 2011.

Tommy Albelin played 19 seasons in the NHL. He played most of his career with the New Jersey Devils, but also played 5 years with the Calgary Flames. Now, he's an assistant coach with the Albany Devils of the AHL.

Albelin kindly signed all 5 of my cards in black Sharpie marker. Unfortunately, I forgot to send him a 1990-91 Pro Set card. Doh! I would have sent that instead of the Upper Deck card you see above. Oh well, my bad. Overall, a great return from a longtime NHLer.

Bracken Kearns

2011-11-23T00:01:00.001-06:00

Bracken Kearns

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 68
Successes: 10
Percentage: 14%

Currently with the San Antonio Rampage (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autograph received: November 18, 2011.

After 6 seasons in the minors (AHL and ECHL), Bracken Kearns finally made his NHL debut this year with the Florida Panthers. He is currently with their top affiliate, the San Antonio Rampage.

Kearns signed my card in black Sharpie marker. He also included this note, written on half an index card:

Carter Hutton

2011-11-22T00:01:00.005-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 66
Successes: 9
Percentage: 13%

Carter Hutton

Currently with the Toledo Walleye (ECHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autographs received: November 17, 2011.

Carter Hutton served as a backup for the San Jose Sharks for several games last season. This season, he was signed to a minor-league contract by the Chicago Blackhawks, and has played for the Toledo Walleye (ECHL) and the Rockford Icehogs (AHL).

Hutton signed 2 cards for me in black Sharpie marker. I sent a Panini Score All-Goalies card and a Donruss Rated Rookies card, but I ended up with a Between the Pipes card in place of my Donruss card. As it turns out, Hutton accidentally swapped my cards with those of fellow TTM autograph collector JohnWayne.

Peter Sidorkiewicz

2011-11-21T00:01:00.002-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 66
Successes: 8
Percentage: 12%

Peter Sidorkiewicz

Retired player. Currently the Assistant Coach of the Erie Otters (OHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autographs received: November 17, 2011.

Peter Sidorkiewicz played in the NHL with the Hartford Whalers, Ottawa Senators and New Jersey Devils. In his one season with Ottawa (1992-93), he played in the NHL All-Star Game.

Sidorkiewicz--or P-Dork, as I liked to call him "back in the day--nicely signed my 4 cards in black Sharpie marker. This is my 3rd success when writing to him; he also signed my cards during a TTM request from the 1990s, as well as one sent to him in 2008.

Sal's Hockey Autographs is 5 years old

2011-11-20T21:06:00.001-06:00

On November 20, 2006, I thought I'd try to maintain a blog for a year.

Well, 5 years later and I'm still at it.

Here's looking forward to the next 5 years.

- Sal

Michael Frolik

2011-11-20T08:09:00.000-06:00

Michael Frolik

Currently with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Signed insert card.

Purchased at a card shop on November 5, 2011.

For some reason, I just had to have this card when I saw it in a card shop last weekend. Frolik has had a decent season with the Chicago Blackhawks this year, and I figured it would be nice to have his rookie card in my collection. As you can see, this SP Authentic card from 2008-09 is signed in blue Sharpie marker.

Chris Herperger

2011-11-19T00:55:00.000-06:00

Chris Herperger

Currently with the Hannover Scorpions (DEL).

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

Chris Herperger played in the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks, Ottawa Senators and Atlanta Thrashers.

Thanks to Casey (Drop the Gloves) for giving me this card.

Maxim Afinogenov

2011-11-18T11:44:00.000-06:00

Maxim Afinogenov

Currently with St. Petersburg SKA (KHL)

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

After a 10 year career in the NHL, Maxim Afinogenov returned to his native Russia to play in the Kontinential Hockey League. Like the other Be A Player autographs from the 2002-03 set, this card is signed in black Sharpie marker.

Thanks to Casey (Drop the Gloves) for giving me this card.

Epsen Knutsen

2011-11-17T10:21:00.000-06:00

Epsen Knutsen

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

Epsen Knutsen played a few seasons in the NHL with the Anaheim Ducks and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Most of his pro career, however, was spent with Djurgardens IF Stockholm in the Swedish Elite League.

Thanks to Casey (Drop the Gloves) for giving me this card.

Steve Eminger

2011-11-16T08:46:00.000-06:00

Steve Eminger

Currently with the New York Rangers.

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

Steve Eminger is becoming quite the journeyman. Since 2002, he has played for the Washington Capitals, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers, Anaheim Ducks and New York Rangers. He also played for the Portland Pirates (AHL). That's 7 teams in 9 years.

Thanks to Casey (Drop the Gloves) for giving me this card.

Wendell Young

2011-11-15T00:01:00.004-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 61
Successes: 7
Percentage: 11%

Wendell Young

Retired player. Currently the General Manager of the Chicago Wolves (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 31, 2011.

Autographs received: November 12, 2011.

Wendell Young played in the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning. He was with the Penguins when they won the Stanley Cup in 1990-91 and 1991-92.

Young also played 7 seasons for the minor-league Chicago Wolves, and was the first player to have his number retired by the Wolves. He is now the team's General Manager.

Another interesting fact about Young is that he is the only hockey player to win the Stanley Cup, Turner Cup, Calder Cup and Memorial Cup.

Young signed all 4 of my cards in black Sharpie marker. The lower left card might look familiar to you, as I got it signed by Todd Nelson last month.

Mike Brennan

2011-11-14T00:01:00.001-06:00

Mike Brennan

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 61
Successes: 6
Percentage: 10%

Currently with the Lake Erie Monsters (AHL).

Fan letter sent: November 5, 2011.

Autograph received: November 12, 2011.

After a 4-year career in college hockey with Boston College, defenseman Mike Brennan has played in the AHL. He was with the Rockford Icehogs for 2 seasons, and then played for the Toronto Marlies. He's currently with the Lake Erie Monsters.

Brennan nicely signed my card in blue Sharpie marker. He also added 3, which is his current number with the Monsters (he wore 5 with the Icehogs).

Daniel Tjarnqvist

2011-11-13T12:30:00.003-06:00

Daniel Tjärnqvist

Currently with Djurgardens IF Stockholm (Elitserien).

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

Daniel Tjärnqvist played in the NHL from 2001 to 2009. He suited up for the Atlanta Thrashers, Minnesota Wild, Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche. He is currently playing in the Swedish Elite League (Elitserien).

Thanks to Casey (Drop the Gloves) for giving me this card.

RTS - Rockford Icehogs

2011-11-12T20:32:00.001-06:00

Rockford Icehogs

Fan letters sent: November 5, 2011.

RTS Received: November 12, 2011

Apparently, the Rockford Icehogs (AHL) have a new mailing address, as three of my letters to the team came back marked "RETURN TO SENDER".

I looked at the team's website, and indeed their mailing address is new:

Rockford IceHogs
300 Elm Street
Rockford, IL 61101

I will re-send my three letters to the above address. I have also updated the Icehog's address on the AHL Team Address page.

Sergei Varlamov

2011-11-11T16:35:00.000-06:00

Sergei Varlomov (Сергі́й Володи́мирович Варла́мов)

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop in September 2011.

Sergei Varlomov is a Ukranian hockey player who played briefly in the NHL with the Calgary Flames and the St. Louis Blues. Since the lockout, he has played in Russia--most recently last year with Minsk Dynamo.

This card is from the over-sized (5" x 7") Pinnacle Beehive set issued in 1997-98. The signature is on-card in black marker. Also note that Varlomov signed his name in Cyrillic.

Jason Bowen

2011-11-10T13:20:00.000-06:00

Jason Bowen

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop in September 2011.

Classic Four Sport was one of those trading card sets I avoided. Sure, I love hockey cards--but getting football, baseball and basketball cards within the same pack was enough of a deterrent to keep me away from Four Sport. One alluring feature of the brand were limited-edition cards autographed by high draft picks.

Jason Bowen was selected in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers in 1992. He played a total of 77 games in the NHL--73 with Philly and another 4 with the Edmonton Oilers. He did have a long professional hockey career, though, playing in various leagues from 1993 to 2006.

This card is signed in thin blue marker and numbered 749/2075. I don't know the significance of 2075--why not just have it limited to an even 2000?--but at least these oldschool inserts are all signed on-card.

Bobby Sanguinetti

2011-11-09T00:01:00.002-06:00

Bobby Sanguinetti

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 61
Successes: 5
Percentage: 8%

Currently with the Charlotte Checkers (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 24, 2011.

Autograph received: November 7, 2011.

Bobby Sanguinetti played 5 games for the New York Rangers during the 2009-10 season. He has also played for the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL, and is currently in the "A" with the Charlotte Checkers.

Sanguinetti signed my card in black Sharpie marker, and added 54--his number with the Rangers. This is my second autograph from him--he also signed an AHL Top Prospects card for me last season.

Tommy Wingels

2011-11-08T00:01:00.002-06:00

Tommy Wingels

Currently with the Worcester Sharks (AHL).

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

This is another card that Casey (Drop the Gloves) gave to me. It is signed on-card in blue Sharpie marker.

I don't know much about Tommy Wingels. So far, he's split this season between the San Jose Sharks and their minor league team in Worcester.

Thomas McCollum

2011-11-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 42
Successes: 4
Percentage: 9%

Thomas McCullum

Currently with the Toledo Walleye (ECHL).

Fan letter sent: October 12, 2011.

Autographs received: November 4, 2011.

Thomas McCollum played in 1game for the Detroit Red Wings last season, which was good enough to include him in some hockey sets released late last year.

I purchased an extra set of All Goalies and an extra set of Score Rookie and Traded just to have extras to get autographed. McCollum is the first player to sign my cards from these sets. He used a thin black marker and has a very nice autograph--a signature you would expect from an oldschool guy like Johnny Bower, not and up and coming prospect (who usually just scribble some gibberish).

Scott Lachance

2011-11-06T00:01:00.002-05:00

Scott Lachance

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

Casey (Drop the Gloves) gave me this card as part of a prize package that I won, and it is much appreciated. Scott Lachance was a member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic Team, then went on to play 12 1/2 seasons in the NHL. Most of Lachance's career was spent with the New York Islanders, but he also played for the Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks and Columbus Blue Jackets.

This card is from the 1998-99 Be A Player set. There were 300 autographed cards, and I have almost half of them now. Thanks to Casey for bringing me one card closer.

Mark Pavelich

2011-11-05T00:14:00.000-05:00

Mark Pavelich

Retired player. Member of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team.

Signed insert card.

Won in an online contest.

After winning an Olympic gold medal in 1980, Pavelich played roughly 6 seasons in the NHL (1981-1987). He came out of retirement briefly in 1991 to play for the San Jose Sharks, but retired after 2 games.

This card is signed in blue Sharpie marker and numbered 605 out of 2,000. I won it at a contest at a hockey card blog called Drop the Gloves. I also won several other signed cards, which you will see featured here throughout the next couple of weeks.

Igor Korolev

2011-11-04T00:01:00.002-05:00

Igor Korolev

Deceased player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Igor Korolev played in 795 NHL games. He died in the tragic plane crash that killed the entire Yaroslavl Lokomotiv hockey team on September 7, 2011--one day after his 41st birthday. He was an assistant coach for the team.

Nathan Gerbe

2011-11-03T00:01:00.018-05:00

Nathan Gerbe

378 Days
Round Trip!!!

Currently with the Buffalo Sabres.

Fan letter sent: October 18, 2010..

Autograph received: November 1, 2011.

This is my 4th return within the past 8 days. It's an autograph a year in the making! I wrote to Nathan Gerbe at the beginning of the 2010-11 season, and got back this card at the beginning of the 2011-12 season. He signed my AHL Top Prospects card in black Sharpie marker.

Felix Potvin

2011-11-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Felix Potvin

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Besides having a too-obvious nickname, Felix "The Cat" Potvin was a darn good goaltender in the 1990s. He is best known for his 6+ seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but he also had some success with the Los Angeles Kings in the early 2000s.

Potvin stopped playing after the 2003-04 season, and I always wondered why. I think he could have played into his early 40s.

Adam Graves

2011-11-01T00:31:00.000-05:00

Adam Graves

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Adam Graves played in the NHL for 15 seasons. He is best known as a member of the New York Rangers, with whom he won a Stanley Cup Championship in 1994. He also won a Stanley Cup while with the Oilers in 1990, when he skated on Edmonton's "Kid Line" with Martin Gelinas and Joe Murphy.

Craig Billington

2011-10-31T00:01:00.002-05:00

Craig Billington

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Craig Billington played in the NHL for quite a while. He broke into the league with New Jersey during the 1985-86 season, and finally retired after the 2002-03 season. Of course, he spent most of the mid-to-late 1980s in the minors, but by 1991 was pretty much an NHL regular.

This Be A Player card from 1995-96 shows Billington from his relatively short (less than 2 season) stint with the Boston Bruins.

Curt Fraser

2011-10-30T00:01:00.011-05:00

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 32
Successes: 3
Percentage: 9%

Curt Fraser

Retired player. Currently the Head Coach of the Grand Rapid Griffins (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 12, 2011.

Autographs received: October 28, 2011.

The 2011-12 season has been good for TTMs. Right now, I have 3 successes in 4 days.

Curt Fraser played in the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks, Chicago Blackhawks and Minnesota North Stars. He made the jump from junior hockey to the NHL without playing in the minor leagues, and his career spanned from 1978 to 1990.

Fraser is now the coach of the Grand Rapids Griffins, the AHL affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. He kindly signed all 5 cards in black Sharpie marker.

James van Riemsdyk

2011-10-29T00:01:00.007-05:00

James van Riemsdyk

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 32
Successes: 2
Percentage: 6%

Currently with the Philadelphia Flyers.

Fan letter sent: October 12, 2011.

Autograph received: October 27, 2011.

Nice! Two successes within the past 3 days--one from an AHL coach (Todd Nelson), and this one from current NHLer James van Riemsdyk. Just over 2 weeks is a great return for an active player.

Van Riemsdyk's signature--in blue Sharpie marker--is pretty much just a J and his uniform number 21. Maybe not the most exciting autograph (do current players sign their contracts like that?), but still great to have a signature from this up-and-coming player.

Todd Nelson

2011-10-28T00:01:00.032-05:00

Todd Nelson

2011-12 TTM Stats
Letters sent: 32
Successes: 1
Percentage: 3%

Retired player. Currently the Head Coach of the Oklahoma City Barons (AHL).

Fan letter sent: October 14, 2011.

Autograph received: October 25, 2011.

Since the start of the 2011-12 season, I've sent out 32 letters. This return, from Oklahoma City Barons head coach Todd Nelson, is my first success from the season. He signed my card in black Sharpie marker.

Nelson shares this card with Wendell Young. Both were assistant coaches with the Chicago Wolves when this card was made. I am going to send it to Young next to (hopefully) get it signed by him too.

This is my second successful return from Nelson. Three years back, he signed two cards for me.

Jordin Tootoo

2011-10-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

Jordin Tootoo

Currently with the Nashville Predators.

Fan letter sent: September 27, 2010

Autographs received: October 20, 2011.

Jordin Tootoo kindly signed all four cards sent in blue Sharpie marker, adding his number 22 under his name. On the Upper Deck card, he accidentally smeared the 22 with his thumb--you can see the print if you look closely. This success took just under 13 months.

Alexander Selivanov

2011-10-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

Alexander Selivanov

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Alexander Selivanov's played pro hockey for a long time. In addition to 459 games in the NHL, he also played in the IHL, in Russia and in Germany. He also played for the minor-league Chicago Wolves during their inaugural season.

Dan Cloutier

2011-10-25T00:01:00.002-05:00

Dan Cloutier

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Dan Cloutier played in 351 NHL games from 1997-98 to 2007-08. He was drafted in the first round of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Rangers.

This card pictures Cloutier during his junior hockey days with the Sault Ste. Marie ("Soo") Grayhounds of the Ontario Hockey League. It is from the "Classic 4-Sport" set, which featured prospects from the four major sports.

Brian Leetch

2011-10-24T00:01:00.004-05:00

Brian Leetch

Retired player. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 2009.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Now this is what I'm talking about! Recently, I scored a bunch of autographed inserts from a local card shop. Many of them were of less-than notable players, but there were a few gems in the mix, such as Alexander Mogilny and Brian Leetch.

This card was inserted in the 1998-99 Topps set at a rate of 1 in every 209 packs. Not impossible odds, but much harder than many of the sets nowadays where you get 1 to 4 autographs per box. So, you could say it isn't a card you see every day. The signature is on-card and in blue Sharpie marker. Best of all, it is of Brian Leetch--one of the greatest Americans to play the game.

Needless to say, I'm pretty happy to have this in my collection.

Johnathan Aitken

2011-10-23T00:01:00.017-05:00

Johnathan Aitken

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

By 1996, my hockey card collecting had slowed down. As I started to save (or at least try to save) for art school, I had to cut back on some of my hobbies. Thus, buying cards by Classic--who focused on prospects and draft picks--was not a priority for me, even though I enjoyed their sets from previous years.

Fast forward to 2011. I found this card for a buck. I have never seen this design before, or heard of the set "Classic Visions". Heck, I don't even remember Jonathan Aitken as a player. It turns out that he was the Boston Bruins first round draft choice in 1996. He played 3 games for the Bruins during the 1999-2000 season, and later played another 41 games for the Chicago Blackhawks in 2003-04.

And now you know.

Kaspars Daugavins

2011-10-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Kaspars Daugavins

Currently with the Binghamton Senators (AHL).

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2010-11 SP Authentic in September 2011.

It is cards like this that make me dislike so-called "high end" products. You spend $100, and one of your hits ends up being an autograph of a guy who played one--ONE!!!--game in the NHL.

That is not to say that Kaspars Daugavins won't have a promising career. Last season, he netted 54 points in 72 AHL games with the B-Sens, and currently has 6 points in his first 5 games this season.

Anyway, I got this card in a pack of 2010-11 SP Authentic. It is signed on-card and in blue Sharpie marker.

Eric Strobel

2011-10-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

Eric Strobel

Retired player. Member of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Eric Strobel was a member of the "Miracle on Ice" team that won the Olympic gold medal in 1980. This card is a signed insert from a pack, numbered 1,109 out of 2,000 and autographed in blue Sharpie marker.

Dave Christian

2011-10-20T00:01:00.001-05:00

Dave Christian

Retired player. Member of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Not only was Dave Christian a member of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Team, but he also had a distinguished, 14-year career in the NHL.

This card is from the 1994-95 Miracle on Ice Set put out by a company called Signature Rookies. It is numbered 1,077 out of 2,000 and signed in blue Sharpie marker. One day, I would like to have a complete set of these "Miracle on Ice" signed cards.

Alexander Mogilny

2011-10-19T17:56:00.000-05:00

Alexander Mogilny

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Late last month, I scored a bunch of signed inserts from my local card shop. So far, you've seen the Mike Richter and Patrik Stefan signed cards I got. And here is a 1995-96 Be A Player signed insert card of Alexander Mogilny.

I never did get Mogilny's autograph, so it is nice to finally own a card signed by him. I do wish he was in his Sabres uniform, though. It boggles my mind that the Buffalo Sabres would have traded this guy during the peak of his career.

Claude Giroux

2011-10-19T00:17:00.002-05:00

Claude Giroux

Currently with the Philadelphia Flyers.

Fan letter sent: February 14, 2011.

Autographs received: October 15, 2011.

This is one of those rare but pleasant instances where the player included more cards than what I sent. I mailed the AHL Top Prospects card (left) to Claude Giroux. He signed that and also enclosed an autographed SP Authentic card. Both are autographed in blue Sharpie marker. The SP Authentic card looks particularly stunning.

Chad Kolarik

2011-10-12T17:57:00.000-05:00

Chad Kolarik

Currently with the New York Rangers.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a pack of 2010-11 SP Authentic in September 2011.

I can't seem to figure out where Chad Kolarik is playing right now. Supposedly, he is with the New York Rangers but he is not listed on their online roster. When I wrote to him last season, he was playing for the Connecticut Whale, but he's not listed on their roster either.

Anyway, I got this card from a pack of 2010-11 SP Authentic Hockey. It is signed on-card in blue Sharpie marker.

Patrik Stefan

2011-10-11T00:01:00.003-05:00

Patrik Stefan

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

My local card shop dealer had no idea who Patrik Stefan was. I told him that I'd take the card off of his hands if he paid me. We settled on me paying a dollar for this card, which is hard-signed in blue Sharpie marker.

As you may or may not recall, Patrik Stefan was the first overall draft pick in the 1999 draft, but his career did not pan out as well as the Atlanta Thrashers had hoped.

No blog post about Patrik Stefan would be complete without this infamous video:

On second thought, I might have paid too much for this card.

Mike Richter

2011-10-10T00:01:00.003-05:00

Mike Richter

Retired player.

Signed insert card.

Purchased from a card shop on September 30, 2011.

Since 2006, I've slowly been piecing together a set of 1998-99 Be A Player autographs. Most of the cards can be found for $1 or $2, while every other card--except Wayne Gretzky--is at an attainable price.

The shiny foil board background makes it hard to see, but the card is signed in black marker. I now have 141 out of 300 signed cards in this set.

Travis Hamonic

2011-10-07T00:01:00.002-05:00

Travis Hamonic

Currently with the New York Islanders.

Signed insert card.

Pulled from a 2010-11 Score Rookie & Traded Boxed Set in August 2011.

Travis Hamonic was the second pick by the Islanders in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. Last season, he played 62 games for the Isles, so he should stick with the big club this year.

This card was an insert in the 2010-11 Score Rookie & Traded boxed set. You got one signed card in each set. It is signed in blue Sharpie marker on a somewhat reflective sticker.

Kari Lehtonen

2011-10-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Kari Lehtonen

Currently with the Dallas Stars.

Fan letter sent: October 14, 2008.

Autographs received: September 17, 2011.

Here is a blog post that has been almost 3 years in the making--literally. I wrote to Kari Lehtonen way back in October 2008. After 3 seasons, Lehtonen--who is now with Dallas--sent back all 4 of my cards, signed in black Sharpie marker.

Honestly, I had given up on this request.

By the way, this is not the longest I've waited for autographed cards. My longest-ever return will be the subject of a future blog post.

Ron Low

2011-09-28T00:01:00.001-05:00

Ron Low

Retired player.

Signed insert card. Acquired in a trade on August 6, 2011.

The very last Decades: 1980s card I acquired. Like the Brad Marsh card, I also got this from Tim (The Real DFG).

Ron Low played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Washington Capitals, Detroit Red Wings, Edmonton Oilers, Quebec Nordiques, and New Jersey Devils.

Brad Marsh

2011-09-27T16:50:00.000-05:00

Brad Marsh

Retired player.

Signed insert card. Acquired in a trade on August 6, 2011.

Tim (The Real DFG) traded this to me. It is a rare hockey card of Brad Marsh with hair.

Just kidding! It isn't a rare card, but it is autographed. By the time I got into hockey, though, Marsh was with the Maple Leafs and his hairline (much like the Leafs in that era) was on the delcine.

Billy Smith

2011-09-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

Billy Smith

Retired player. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1993.

Signed insert card. Acquired in a trade on August 6, 2011.

Yet another card that Justin G. traded to me. I have amassed quite a nice collection of Islanders autographs (Smith, Denis Potvin,
Bob Nystrom and Kelly Hrudey) from the In The Game Decades: 1980s set.

Kelly Hrudey

2011-09-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

Kelly Hrudey

Retired player.

Signed insert card. Acquired in a trade on August 6, 2011.

Kelly Hrudey is probably best known as a member of the Los Angeles Kings, but he got his start with the New York Islanders. Justin G. (The Hopeful Chase) traded this card to me at The National Sports Collectors' Convention back in August.

Bob Nystrom

2011-09-24T10:26:00.000-05:00

Bob Nystrom

Retired player.

Signed insert card. Acquired in a trade on August 6, 2011.

This card is from In The Game's Decades: 1980s set, which featured 3 autographed cards per box. The signatures are in black and signed on-card.

Bob Nystrom was a part of the New York Islanders four consecutive Stanley Cup championships. The Islanders were the only team he played with during his 14-year career.

Thanks to Justin G. for trading this card to me.

Jeremy Roenick

2011-09-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Jeremy Roenick

Retired player.

Signed insert card. Acquired in a trade in September 2011.

This is actually a signed insert that was seeded in packs of 1992-93 Fleer Ultra Series One. This is just like the normal insert card, but was autographed by Jeremy Roenick. It also has the words "Fleer Mark of Authenticity" embossed on the card.

I have to thank Dave H. (Wax Stain Rookie) for trading me this card of one of my childhood heroes. Sure, I gotten Roenick's autograph numerous times--both in person and through-the-mail. But it is still very cool to get a signed insert of one of your favorite players. Especially when it's one of those cards that's been eluding you all these years.

Tim Kennedy

2011-09-21T00:01:00.002-05:00

Tim Kennedy

Most recently with the Rochester Americans.

Fan letter sent: February 14, 2011.

Autograph received: September 16, 2011.

Tim Kennedy was born in Buffalo, New York and played the 2009-10 season for the Buffalo Sabres. I'm not sure if he is the first person from Buffalo to play for the Sabres, but that is still a pretty cool accomplishment.

After that season, Kennedy and the Sabres could not come to a contract agreement, so they waived his rights and Kennedy ended up with the New York Rangers. The Rangers sent him to play for the Hartford Wolf Pack (who renamed themselves the Connecticut Whale midway through the season), and then he was later traded again to the Florida Panthers, splitting time between them and the Rochester Americans.

Anyway, Kennedy signed my AHL Top Prospects card in thin black marker, adding number 10 next to his name. Also notice the McDonald's logo on his chest.

Steve Bozek

2011-09-20T00:01:00.001-05:00

Steve Bozek

Retired player.

Fan letter sent: July 2, 2011.

Autographs received: September 13, 2011.

Steve Bozek played 11 seasons in the NHL and was a member of the inaugural San Jose Sharks team in 1991-92. He signed all 5 cards sent in black Sharpie marker.

Sal's Hockey Autographs

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