I've been collecting footballers' autographs for 5 or 6 years now and I have over 700 in my collection. People have asked me, from time to time, how to go about it - so here are some tips! It is often possible, of course, to get players' autographs when you see them (before/after games), but this isn't always practical - especially for foreign players. Your best shot is therefore to write to them.

Who to write to?

Write to whoever you want; in fact, start with your favourite player! In my experience, you are almost as likely to receive a reply from a big star as from a lower division minion - so go for it! Remember though, that for every letter you receive a reply to - there will probably be another that you will not! You have to be patient in this game!

What to write?

Write whatever you like - but do be polite. Just say how much you like the player and give some examples of recent achievements by him. (In other words, grovel!). It's best if you can write *at least a little* in the player's own language. You should be able to pick up a few phrases from any foreign dictionary (or you could even try an online translator, but I wouldn't guarantee that what you write will make any sense!) In any case, there is no need to go into a long, rambling essay. Short and straight to the point ("gimme autograph") is often the best policy.

Where do I send my letter?

Usually to the player's club. Most clubs have pigeon-holes for the players, from where they pick up their mail. It's also worth writing to players when they visit your country, for European games or friendlies - as this saves on having to provide a foreign stamp on your s.a.e. Write to the club who the player's team is playing and you will often get a reply.

Should I send a stamped-return-envelope?

YES! Always! Whenever you go abroad, or whenever you know somebody going - always bring back a supply of that country's postage stamps! If it is impossible to obtain a stamp from the country the particular player plays in - then you should provide an International Reply Coupon, which are readily available from most post-offices.

How long will it take?

Players vary enormously in the amount of time they take to reply (if at all!). You must be very patient. Sometimes players reply within a couple of weeks - but sometimes it can take them up to a couple of years!!

What will I get back?

Footballers usually send back a signed photograph. You could always send something for them to sign in with your letter. I often do this - sometimes sending whole posters to the entire team, although this doesn't always end in success!

The main thing is to enjoy it! And when you are rewarded with an envelope popping through your door one morning, with you favourite player's autograph inside, then all the effort will have been worth it!

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