In this special edition of “Flames Unfiltered,” hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis dive into the captivating realm of Calgary Flames hockey collectibles. As die-hard Flames fans and avid collectors, they explore their personal collections ranging from game-used jerseys and hockey cards to autographed memorabilia and unique team gear. The episode sheds light on the challenges and thrills of pursuing rare collectible items and the sentimental value attached to these cherished pieces.
Throughout the discussion, Brad and Kyle share stories behind their most prized items, offering an intriguing glimpse into their extensive inventories. Brad highlights his journey of collecting over 1,000 Theoren Fleury hockey cards, underscoring the magnitude of the collection task and the satisfaction that comes with procuring rare items. Alternatively, Kyle discusses his passion for collecting game-worn jerseys, sharing tales of acquisitions like Trevor Lewis’s Flames jerseys and a unique Jeff Cowan rookie jersey. They share insights into the methods collectors use to obtain these treasures, including eBay and various collector groups, thereby providing listeners with practical advice on expanding their collections.
Key Takeaways:
Brad Burud has amassed over 1,000 Theoren Fleury hockey cards, revealing the immense scope and dedication required to build such a collection.
Kyle Lewis values his game-worn jerseys, including a rare Jeff Cowan rookie jersey, and highlights the community aspects and trading strategies involved in collecting these items.
Specialized collectibles like game-used pucks and jerseys can spark strong nostalgia and possess significant historical value, connecting fans to memorable moments in the Flames’ history.
The world of collectibles can be highly addictive, with collectors facing the dual challenges of financial investment and space management for their treasured items.
Resources like the annual Flames equipment sale offer affordable opportunities to acquire unique memorabilia directly from the team.
Notable Quotes:
“I miss collecting cards like a kid. Like we did when we were kids. You probably never got to experience it just because it was already insane when you were a kid, but now it’s even more insane.” – Brad Burud
“Collectible collecting is a really dangerous thing to do because it can take over your house and take over your bank account, get pretty out of control.” – Kyle Lewis
“Could you imagine if you could collect, like, how cool would it be to have a goalie mask from all the Flames goalies over the years?” – Brad Burud
“Yeah, it’s just, you know, it’s like any addiction. You got to try and manage it.” – Kyle Lewis
“I was friends with a linesman in the National Hockey League, and he would… bring me pucks all the time. Like, they could take pucks or whatever.” – Brad Burud
Dive deeper into the world of Calgary Flames collectibles by listening to the full episode of “Flames Unfiltered.” Stay tuned for more engaging episodes that capture the essence of Flames hockey and fandom.
About the Hosts:
Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis are the hosts of the “Flames Unfiltered” podcast. Brad and Kyle delve into the world of Calgary Flames hockey, discussing a variety of topics related to the team and its fans. Their insights are enriched by their personal collections of Calgary Flames memorabilia, as well as their engaging discussions about the team’s history and current performances.
The Allure of Calgary Flames Collectibles: A Dive into Hockey Treasures
Key Takeaways
The passion for collecting Calgary Flames memorabilia is fueled by nostalgia and personal sentiment, with items ranging from hockey cards to game-used jerseys.
Engaging stories and personal connections enrich the value of collectibles, transforming them into cherished memories rather than mere possessions.
The community around hockey collectibles fosters discovery and shared enthusiasm, driven by the thrill of finding rare items and connecting with fellow collectors.
The Passion for Calgary Flames Collectibles
Collecting memorabilia, especially within the realm of sports, is an endeavor that blends nostalgia, passion, and a bit of treasure hunting. For Calgary Flames fans, the memorabilia market offers a fascinating world filled with everything from cards to jerseys emblazoned with history. Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis, hosts of Flames Unfiltered, have cultivated experiences and stories that illuminate the bond fans share with their collections.
Brad’s journey began with trying to collect every Theoren Fleury hockey card, an endeavor laced with childhood memories. “When I was a kid,” Brad reflects, sharing his early experiences, “I’d go to the Valley Dairy, which is like a convenience store… It was 25 cents a pack, and you got 15 cards.” His collection represents more than just cardboard; they are pieces of history that connect him to formative years spent watching Flames hockey. Similarly, Kyle’s focus on game-worn jerseys signifies a deeper connection to the game, having even met some players like Jeff Cowan and had them sign pieces of equipment that bear the wear of professional play.
The Treasures Within Flames Memorabilia
Exploring the World of Hockey Cards
Hockey cards are not just simple depictions of athletes; they’re snapshots of history and relics of fan devotion. With 2,634 different cards of Theoren Fleury out there, Brad’s collection serves as a testament to his dedication. “There’s actually 2,634 cards of Theoren Fleury out there,” he noted, with an aspirational goal that acknowledges both his accomplishment and the elusiveness of completeness. These cards, whether portraying the fiercely scarred or rookie-season shine, carry values that fluctuate like commodities but always hold personal resonance.
Reflecting on his childhood, Brad recounts, “you were happy with what you got,” recalling simpler times when opening a pack yielded pure joy. Cards like these often forge connections across generations, each with its own stories about discovering a rookie card or finding a rare variant, shaping communal and personal narratives. The impact of these collectibles is profound, as they hold sentimental and monetary value, uniting fans through shared stories and mutual enthusiasm.
The Intrigue of Game-Worn Jerseys
While hockey cards encapsulate moments, game-worn jerseys carry the texture of history. Kyle’s journey into these wearable relics began modestly with a used Jeff Cowan jersey but soon grew into a prized collection. “I got it really cheap,” Kyle reminisced, illustrating how small beginnings can grow into serious collections with pieces like Mike Cammalleri’s only home playoff jersey and the famously rugged Matthew Lombardi’s 2004 playoff jersey.
These jerseys are not just cloth and thread; they are storied artifacts bearing the sweat and grit of Flames players. Kyle’s collection boasted over 20 jerseys, each narrating its part of the Flames’ saga. The rarity and richness of game conditions imprinted on them increase their allure. The emotional weight is considerable, making even budget-friendly purchases feel invaluable both to collectors and the communities eager to trade and showcase their prized items.
The Community and its Collectible Stories
The magic of collecting extends beyond personal enjoyment; it thrives within a community of shared passions and narratives. As discussed by Brad and Kyle, collector groups on platforms like Facebook and eBay serve as vital hubs for exchanging items and stories. Direct transactions often prove economical and social, particularly for niche Flames collectibles. This peer-driven dynamic ensures collections continuously evolve, fed by community interactions and shared efforts to pursue elusive items.
Kyle reflects this camaraderie through stories like Rob pretending to be security to fetch a puck for him—instances that highlight community spirit and collective dedication. Collectibles are not merely possessions; they’re catalysts for connection across fans and generations. They stitch together collective dreams, fan narratives, and friendships while broadening one’s appreciation for Flames’ heritage, further fueled by interactions at events like the Flames’ equipment sale.
Through artifacts as varied as hockey cards and game-worn jerseys, Flames fans weave a rich tapestry of collective memory, one story at a time. These pieces allow fans like Brad and Kyle to bridge past victories with present accomplishments, each artifact a physical token of shared history and personal connection. In the ongoing journey to discover and share, every collectible becomes a piece of a larger narrative—a living tribute to the enduring spirit of Calgary Flames fans worldwide.
Flames Unfiltered features two passionate and opinionated hosts. Brad Burud has been with the show since the beginning and was the creator of the show. A Flames fan since 1986 he brings the old school approach to the show. As a Theoren Fleury and Mikka Kiprusoff fan he longs for the playoff runs he watched decades ago. Kyle Lewis joined the show for the start of season four. A Flames fan since the 90’s, Kyle is a huge collector of Calgary game-worn jerseys. Jarome Iginla was the hero for the Flames when Kyle started this journey and Iginla will always be a favorite. Kyle hopes this year’s version of the Flames can bring him the happiness he felt when Gelinas scored the overtime game winner over Detroit. Thanks for joining us. Sit back and enjoy some Flames hockey talk.
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