I think we all have a story of getting disappointed by a famous sportsperson or celebrity when we were young.
You might have approached your sporting idol for an autograph or photo, only to be declined?
My story (years ago) involved a famous Australian cricketer at a Test match at the SCG. I was sitting in the members stand and the cricketer, who was recently retired, was about 10 rows away. I was a big fan. And having grown up in the country, I rarely saw my idols in the flesh. So I didn’t want to waste this opportunity, I just had to get an autograph.
With the guidance of my dad, I waited until the first drinks break to approach the cricketer, pen and paper in hand. “Can’t you see I’m watching the game,” was the reply to my request. “Come back at lunch.”
I was extremely hurt and embarrassed, but I mustered up the strength to try again at lunch. I let the cricketer eat lunch, have a beer and talk to his mates. Just before the players were due to come back out on the field, I approached again. Rejected.
I was no longer a fan after that.
In this case, the cricketer had no excuse not to sign an autograph. However, I also understand the pressures and expectations of our sporting heroes, and meeting the demands from fans is not always possible.
Now working in athlete management, I get to experience this first hand when I’m out in public with a high profile person. I see the looks and finger pointing, the nervous kids wanting to approach, or the guy who wants a cool facebook photo.
Where possible, I encourage my athletes to interact with the fans. But unfortunately there will always be someone you disappoint. And under my watch, it’s never on purpose.
If an athlete can’t fulfill a fan request in public, then I do my best to protect the athlete’s reputation. I play the bad guy.
If for whatever reason, an athlete has to leave a function early, turn down a photo, deny an autograph, it’s because of me (or at least that’s how it’s perceived by the fans). I do whatever it takes to divert their attention to the mean manager.
Hate me, not the athlete.
I’m not sure if this strategy helps the athlete totally save face, but for me it’s the best solution to an awkward problem.
