How to Get an NHL Player's Autograph

The key to getting an NHL player's autograph is to be patient. They are among the nicest players of any of the professional sports. If you know when and where they're going to be, the players are pretty accessible. It's not about becoming a stalker. You can ask them for an autograph as they walk in and out of the arena on game day. You just have to make sure you're prepared.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Figure out the players' schedule. Usually, the home team practices from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on game day. The visitors skate from 11 a.m. to noon. Players will arrive two to four hours before game time. Ask an arena employee.
2. Have something for the players to sign. Many people are caught off guard when they see an NHL player, so they're not holding anything that can be signed.
3. Carry a program, hockey cards, puck, stick or photo for the players to sign. If you have nothing else, ask him to sign your hat or shirt.
4. Use lumocolor pens or sharpies to get your autographs. They both work pretty well on all surfaces. If you want the NHL player to sign a puck, carry a paint pen with you.
5. Know who all the players are. You'll kick yourself if you allow a player to walk right by because you didn't recognize them right away.

Tips & Warnings

• Show respect for the NHL players.
• Always thank the players for signing your item.
• Handle your pen with care so you don't get ink on the players.
• Ask parking attendants where the player parking is. This way, you'll know which route they'll take into the arena.
• Don't bother NHL players inside restaurants or hotels.
• Don't yell at them if they refuse to sign their autograph.