Alright, let me tell you about the time I went to get Joe Burrow’s autograph back in 2023. It wasn’t exactly a walk in the park, but definitely an experience.
Getting Started: Hearing the News
So, I first caught wind of this signing event, I think it was through one of those sports memorabilia sites I follow online. You know how it is, scrolling through stuff, and boom, there it was: Joe Burrow signing session. My first thought was, “No way, gotta do this.” Huge Bengals fan here, obviously. Getting Joey B’s signature felt like something I just needed to check off the list.
The Prep Work: Tickets and Gear
Getting tickets was the first hurdle. They went on sale online, and it was one of those click-fast-or-cry situations. Managed to snag one for the signing itself, plus you usually have to buy the item ticket separately depending on what you want signed – like a flat item (photo) is cheaper than a premium item (jersey, helmet). I decided to go with a football. Had a nice Bengals logo ball sitting around, figured that would be perfect.
So, ticket secured, ball ready. Then it was just figuring out the logistics. The signing was a couple of hours drive away, so had to plan the trip, make sure the car was gassed up, figure out parking near the venue – the usual stuff you do for these things.
The Big Day: Arrival and the Wait
Drove down on the day, gave myself plenty of time because I expected crowds, and boy, was I right. Found parking eventually, cost a bit, but what are you gonna do? Walked over to the venue, and the line was already snaking around the building. Seriously, it was massive.
Finding my place in line, the waiting game began. This is the part nobody loves, but it’s part of the deal. Stood there for, gosh, must have been nearly three hours. You chat with people around you, everyone’s excited, showing off what they brought to get signed. Saw jerseys, helmets, tons of photos. The atmosphere was pretty cool, lots of orange and black everywhere. Staff were trying to keep things organized, checking tickets, moving the line slowly.
- Stood in line (forever!)
- Chatted with other fans
- Watched the line slowly inch forward
- Kept my football safe
The Moment: Meeting Joe (Sort Of)
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I was getting close. You could see him up at the table, just signing away. They move you through pretty quick at this point. It’s like an assembly line. You hand your item over, they put it in front of him, he signs it, they hand it back, and you’re moved along.
My turn came. Handed over my football. He glanced up, gave a quick nod, signed it with the silver marker I requested (always check what marker they use!), and that was basically it. Maybe ten seconds total? Not much interaction, but honestly, I didn’t expect a deep conversation. The guy had hundreds, maybe thousands, of items to sign. You’re there for the autograph, mainly.
They handed the ball back, sharpie still looking fresh. Got ushered out of the signing area pretty quick to make room for the next person.
Aftermath and Thoughts
Stepped outside, holding the signed football. Bit of a daze, really. The whole thing happens so fast after waiting so long. Looked at the signature – clean, right where I wanted it on the ball. Felt pretty good, gotta say.
The drive home was easier, feeling satisfied. Got the ball home and put it straight into a display case. Don’t want that signature smudging or fading.
Was it worth the time, the money, the standing around? Yeah, for me it was. It’s Joe Burrow, one of the biggest names in the game right now. It’s a cool piece of memorabilia to have, a good story to tell. It’s not glamorous, getting these autographs, it’s mostly waiting. But seeing that signature on my football? Definitely worth it in the end. Just gotta be prepared for the process.
