Spotlight: Panini America Hockey Collector Joseph Schacter Discusses His Passion
Here’s one way we know the future of card collecting in Canada is in good hands: Former Toronto-area third-grade teacher Joseph Schacter spent almost two decades inevitably sharing his passion for the hobby with his students.
Although Schacter recently changed professions and now handles personal lines for First Service Brokers, his dedicated pursuit of Panini America NHL trading cards — especially the 2010-11 Dominion brand — remains intact.
What follows is a brief rundown, in Schacter’s own words, of his collecting history and just how he came to appreciate Panini America’s hockey offerings.
“I’ve been collecting cards since I was 7 — over 40 years. Hockey cards are not just a hobby; they are my passion. My collection includes rookies, graded cards, autographs, jersey cards, patch cards, autograph patch cards, vintage cards, a large goalie collection and a high-end collection.
“I am known as ‘Patch Man’ on Hobby Insider and Emblems2011 on eBay as I seek out unique emblems. I started buying Panini America products when they first came out with the Official NHL Sticker & Album Collection — buying albums for me, my family, and some for my friends’ kids.
“The Peerless Patches insert in 2010-11 Dominion blew my mind and, as you can see, I have some beauties. As today’s kids would say, ‘They are sick!’ I also love the Net Presence cards because they are so thick and have huge pieces or All-Star Game-used net in them, with great player graphics on the side.
“The best story I have regarding my collection happened when I went to a flea market just outside Toronto and my card dealer friend had a Crosby Laundry Tag card out of six and he actually traded it to me for a few average cards. Talk about a great deal. I am still seeking a wild Peerless Patches card of Crosby. That would really enhance my collection.
“I love the regular email updates from The Knight’s Lance in all sports and the best thing is to watch all the Panini America videos on You Tube where you can watch the awesome cards being made in that huge Texas factory and watch fine representatives bust open hockey products to reveal amazing finds.
“One thing that really sets Panini America apart is the company’s innovation. Panini America is constantly coming out with varied products which are so well-made, feature today’s stars and future stars. Panini America shares my passion, and that of the hockey nation of Canada. We watch our games, cheer on our teams, and get together to trade and exchange our stories. The hobby has brought us more together as a nation.”