If you have a sports fan in your life who you are looking to buy a gift for then it can be super easy to buy for them if they are just starting out and they love to collect any sports memorabilia; but, on the other hand it could be a little bit trickier if they are huge fans and they have most of the items on sale that you have been looking at, as they have been collecting and building up their collection over a number of years. Even if it is a little bit trickier, it is still possible to find fantastic gift ideas both online and offline, so, where should you start?
Think About Your Budget
Sports memorabilia can get expensive, especially when you start talking about one-offs or limited editions; so you must have a budget in mind, and it must be realistic for what you are looking to buy. As some gifts are expensive to buy and they are seen as considered purchases then you could try to set aside a little bit of extra money every month (or whenever you can) to ensure you have sufficient funds for when they are needed.
Look at What to Buy
From bespoke clocks with their team’s photo in the background to hoodies, swimwear, and ponchos, there are literally hundreds of products and items that you can spend your money on. When you are looking at what to buy you should try and take a step back before you get caught up in everything. Stepping back will allow you to see what is on offer and evaluate the choices available to you. Rushing a decision or purchase could potentially see you purchasing an item that they might not like or enjoy as much as you had hoped for.
Think About What They Would Like
When you step back you get chance to think about what the recipient will actually like. So, how well do you know them? If you have heard a friend or colleague talk about their team, but, you have never heard them say what they need or want, then the whole process may be a little bit trickier. However, if you have a vague idea of what they want and would like, then this will obviously put you in good stead for your search and subsequent purchase. Here are a few suggestions:
A Signed Photo
This could be a signed photo of their favorite star or team, or, it could be a picture of the recipient—or of an item personal to them. Signed photos can be worth a lot of money later on down the line, but right now they will be treasured and valued by the recipient; so with this in mind you must ensure that you get a good, high-quality photo ready for signing. So, who is their favorite player or sportsperson and can you readily get hold of a photo of them that is suitable for signing? Once you have a photo in your hands you also need to try and arrange for the physical signing, which might of course, prove to be a little bit trickier.
An Autograph Book
Autographs from their favorite team will go down a storm, especially if they have an autograph book that needs adding too. If they do not have a book related to their team already then this could be the perfect gift that you can look at purchasing from a registered supplier. Purchasing a high-quality, well-produced book that can hold quality autographs will make the whole gift that extra bit special, as you know that they will be able to hold, look at, and flick it through year on year.
A Flutter on Their Favorite Team
Not every sports fan wants physical items; some would prefer an alternative, such as a bet on their team or favorite player, as it gives them a thrill similar to when they watch their team. When it comes to sports bets and placing a bet, if you are taking out the bet on their behalf you must ensure that you bet on the correct team and for the correct match; whereas if they are placing a bet you should strongly urge them to proceed with care, and never chase any losses they make as this will take out all of the fun and enjoyment of betting.
Personalized Kit or Teamwear
From a team’s shirt to a full kit, getting a personalized item of clothing is certainly a gift that they will appreciate and enjoy using for many years to come. Getting a gift that can be worn and used, rather than just sat around gathering dust is what a lot of people would like. Showing their support and love for their team is what sports fans want to do, and they can do this very effectively when they are wearing a personalized kit or piece of teamwear.
Unique Homeware or Accessories
From vases to cups and bedding, there are so many items and accessories that you could purchase for the home for the recipient. So, before you rush out and get that vase think about if they even have any need or use for it. If they don’t then it will have been a waste of your time, and it will be a waste of theirs as it will just serve to clutter up their home. Get homeware and accessories that you know they will love, use, and cherish all year round if possible.
Watch Out for Fakes and Counterfeits
Unfortunately, when buying anything related to sports and games you have to be wary of fakes and counterfeit goods. Sometimes fake goods are easy to spot, but on other occasions items purchased online—such as tickets to a soccer game next weekend—can be difficult to verify and authenticate, especially if you do not know what you are looking for. To avoid losing money to fraudsters it is always wise to keep your guard up at all times and to only buy from reputable online stores and sellers.
