Sportsfest 2008..Anyone attend?

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Posted By: paulgrubor

I was going to set up at this show but I coach a girls 18U fast pitch softball select team and we had a game scheduled on Sunday.
From what I'm hearing, the attendance on Friday was pathetic. Did any of you guys go? How was Saturday and Sunday?

I was called a few times by a rep of Sportsfest asking me why I wasn't setting up at the show. I even heard they were giving deals or a gas allowance. Well even if I wasn't coaching a team, I probably still would have passed on the show. For me its easier auctioning cards on Ebay vs the show scene. The booths are 795.00 and gas, food, tolls, lodging, etc. make it not very cost efficient. Now, If they lowered the fees for tables and quit charging $150.00 an autograph, I might just reconsider.

I would say if I sold $10,000.00 worth of merchandise/cards on Ebay my fees including paypal would probably be around $1200.00.
Now if I buy a booth and figure in all the rest my fees my cost would be around $1400.00. I agree that the one on one dealing is fun and there's nothing like a good trade. How many good show are there per year? I did the National and Sportsfest last year and dealers were telling me that there are maybe 5 or 6 good shows left. I remember the late 80's and setting up in Minnesota at the Fair grounds 4 times per year, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, San Francisco, Gloria's, St louis, etc etc were dynamite shows. The lack of good shows must have to do with the internet. I've got some great customers that send me want lists and auction off 500 or so cards per month, and its all because of the internet. Now, If that Ebay stock would just get past $31.00 and stay there I'd be even happier!