Derek Jeter Knows About My Collection ... Finally
When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Derek Jeter joined the social media world on May 31. So, I did what any self-respecting card collector would do – I made a silly video.
Here was my chance to interact with Jeter and get him to notice my collection. I've been collecting his cards since 1996, his magical rookie season when the Yankees won the World Series.
I’ve dedicated more than half my life to collecting his cards.
He should know.
The plan was to post every day (or just about every day) on social media about my Jeter collection. I’d discuss different facets of my collection like my favorite cards, notable stories or new pickups.
I tagged him often.
Did he respond – or even like one of my tweets?
Nope.
But I had a backup plan. This past Saturday, Jeter was the guest of honor at an event held at Yankee Stadium. I was fortunate enough to attend. He spoke a bit, did a Q&A with the small audience, and then took pictures with each of the attendees.
Several collectors there asked me if I was going to tell Jeter about my collection. They’ve seen the social posts, just not Jeter.
I considered asking about it during the public Q&A. I’d hold the mic up to my face and say as calmly as possible, “Hey Derek, have you seen my card collection?”
I didn’t think it would go well, because the answer would undoubtedly be "no."
Instead, I waited until I went up for a photo op. Jeter stood next to an oversized number 2 decorated in Topps cards from over the years. He seemed patient and friendly with those that went up before me. I was one of the last ones to take a photo.
As I walked over, I tried to give Jeter a fist bump … he extended his hand for a shake. We were already in awkward town.
“I’m Susan. Nice to meet you,” I said, as we managed to figure out what to do with our hands.
“How are you?” Jeter said.
“I’m crazy.”
This got a look from the former Yankees shortstop. But here was my chance and I was not going to miss it.
“I’m a big fan and I’m also a huge collector. I have a massive collection of Derek Jeter cards. I have over 3,000 Derek Jeter cards. Since you joined social media, I made it a point to tag you because I just wanted you to see my collection and acknowledge it. I thought it’d be fun.”
Did I realize I said his full name to him more than once? Yes!
Did I feel crazy about it? Also, yes! He obviously knows his name! But I didn’t care. I was in the zone!
Being the pro that he is, he said to me, “What did you say your name was again?”
“Susan, but they call me Sooz.”
He then extended his hand to shake mine. I nailed it. Phew!
“Thank you and it’s great to meet you, Sooz.”
It wasn’t anything wild. We didn’t scroll through pics of his cards on my phone. He didn’t follow me on social media (yet!). The interaction was what it needed it to be and now my mission is accomplished. He knows there’s a supercollector from New York who talks fast with her hands.
It’s not the first time I’ve met Jeter. I was a sports journalist for 15 years and had the opportunity to interview him several times, including the 2009 World Series.
This time, I was just a collector.
A collector who got to tell Derek Jeter about her collection. Finally.
Really well written Sooz!!
I enjoyed reading this! He needs to like one of your posts!! Come on Derek!
Fantastic!!