I don't think autograph collecting will ever go away.
But it may evolve, and exist in different forms. I think a picture or an encounter is much, much more memorable to a child or a collector than an autograph. But then again, we're talking about two different things here. The autograph may have long term value to the hobby, but the selfie (Whether autographed, personalized, etc.) is really specific to the individual.
The past generation has taught players, collectors and kids alike that autographs are a commodity, to be bought and sold. Experiences are memories, which are more important to building fans and love of sport.
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