The Baltimore Ravens have announced a new autograph policy that may make it nearly impossible for anyone beyond middle school age to get an autograph.
The team announced its controversial new plan just a couple of weeks before the start of the team’s training camp.
Players will sign autographs for children only after all morning practices. Autographs will not be available following afternoon practices.
The Ravens say “safety” is the key factor for the change.
“We have considered changing the way we do autograph signings for a few years,” team president Dick Cass said. “Our crowds for the morning practices have become so large that we’ve had safety situations with people pushing each other to try and get closer to the players. Often times, children would be put in difficult positions with the rush for autographs, especially from our most popular players.”
Children ages 6 through 15 will be allowed on the field after each morning practice. Children can bring one item to be autographed, and adults will not be allowed to enter the autograph area.
While it’s clear the team is aiming to shut down the sometimes aggressive nature of some fans and the inevitable autograph dealers who show up with multiple items, the move has angered many fans and collectors in the area. At least the team’s official website is offering the chance to comment and many have.
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