Im new to this.. just wondering what you guys say in your email requests to athletes and various other people. There are some players I'm huge fans of and would love their auto, but I dont want to come off as "YOURE AWESOME CAN I HAVE YOUR AUTOGRAPH>???" obviously i wouldnt say that exactly, but still.. suggestions or would be wonderful

I say something along the lines of:

Dear Mr/Mrs (Last name),
I have been a big fan of you for years! I appreciate your work on and off the field and I was wondering if you could take some time out of your busy schedule to sign an autograph for me? I understand if you can't, but a fan like myself would highly appreciate it from an athlete of your caliber. Thank you for your time and I wish you the best of luck in the future!

Sincerely,
Name
[Address]

thanks, thats really helpful :)

I usually try to make it somewhat personal, though it does take time. The non-mainstream celebs may actually read their mail and email you back. A number of the Nobel laureates have written me back.

So, in general, I'd mention some specifics (teams or accomplishments), mention that you are a fan and all, and thank him/her. Obviously, remember to put in your address. :)

Honesty works best.

If you want really good results, take the time to send them an actual message and not just request an autograph. No matter if it is an assistant you are sending to, agent, employee or whomever, make it sincere in what you are trying to say. I mean, you are asking them to do you a favor that is not in their job description anywhere, the least any of us could do is be honest about why we are a fan.

Just tell them why you are a fan, how you became a fan, some of your favorite moments from them -- anything of the sorts.

I'm sure you have sent a letter to an athlete. I'm also sure you did not BS them and write 2-3 sentences to request an autograph either. Just do it thru email in the same sincere way.

Really, you would be surprised at how many people are kind enough to at least respond back and to even send you an autograph when you show them you are a true fan, rather than just after a free autograph.

that is exactly how i do it. works all the time. i have over 50, i could have more, but i am very selective of who i get.