Replay Sports Cards returned to Chicago ahead of the 2026 National Sports Collectors Convention with a weeklong series of community and fan-focused events designed to promote the sports-card hobby while supporting local charitable efforts. The company’s activities extended beyond the convention floor and into neighborhoods, hospitals, and public venues across Chicagoland.
The outreach began with a sports-trivia event at Rate Field during a Chicago White Sox game against the New York Yankees, where attendees were introduced to the collecting hobby through interactive activities and giveaways. Co-founder Mike Martin said the event was intended to reach sports fans who may be curious about collecting but have not yet entered the hobby.
Replay then visited La Rabida Children’s Hospital, distributing trading card packs to patients and their families. Co-founder Brent Schepel said the company’s “Replay Gives Back” initiative is focused on bringing moments of joy to children facing difficult medical circumstances. The visit was followed by a charitable card-collection drive connected to the convention, encouraging collectors to donate surplus cards for redistribution to children and community organizations.
During the convention itself, Replay planned live card breaks, trading activities, and fan interactions while continuing to collect donations. The company said that more than three million cards have been donated through the Replay Gives Back program since its launch, making philanthropy a central part of its brand identity.
For businesses that build customer relationships through live experiences, coordinating multiple public events can be a significant operational task. Platforms such as Gorilla Dash can help organizations manage event schedules, outreach activities, and customer engagement efforts through Event Calendar tools that support coordination across teams and locations. Replay’s Chicago program offers a clear example of how event planning and community outreach can work together to strengthen both brand loyalty and social impact.