HGA Grades In The Game Cards
In The Game (ITG) made its entry into the trading card market during the 1998-1999 season with the creation of the “Be A Player” brand trading cards in collaboration with the NHL Player’s Association (NHLPA). Notable for featuring one certified autograph card per pack, Be A Player marked ITG’s initial foray into card production. The brand’s origins trace back to 1994, and after Pinnacle Brands, the NHLPA licensee for 1996 and 1997, went bankrupt, ITG’s founder, Brian Price, played a pivotal role in determining the fate of Be A Player.
Ted Saskin of the NHLPA sought Price’s expertise in deciding the future of Be A Player, and despite Price initially recommending the return of the brand to Upper Deck due to collector loyalty, Saskin proposed that ITG manufacture Be A Player in partnership with the NHLPA. This led to the establishment of In The Game, Inc.
However, the relationship between ITG and the NHLPA faced a challenge in 2005 during the NHL lockout. The NHLPA terminated its license agreement with ITG, granting Upper Deck an exclusive five-year license. Despite this setback, ITG continued to produce trading card sets featuring NHL players and expanded its reach to include Hockey Canada-licensed cards after the 2005-06 season.
In 2014, In The Game’s assets and trade name were acquired by Leaf Trading Cards in Dallas, Texas. This marked the transition of ownership, concluding ITG’s significant presence in the trading card industry.
Graded cards often have a higher resale value and are more sought after by serious collectors to display, invest, and sell. It doesn’t matter if it is for personal collection or you are selling your cards, the first step to upgrading your collection is to get it graded.
Importance of Grading Flesh and Blood Cards
Grading is an important part to any collector who wants to preserve, protect, and authenticate their collection. Grading your cards gives you assurance and piece of mind of the following points.
Condition Determination
A card’s grade can significantly influence its market value. A mint condition card can fetch prices exponentially higher than its worn counterparts.
Authenticity
Grading ensures the card’s authenticity, protecting collectors from counterfeit cards. As well as being labeled with the detailed information about the cards set, release and variation.
Protection
Once graded, cards are sealed in a tamper-resistant, protective case, preserving their condition. Allowing you to display and show off your cards without fear of damage or wear.
Our Unique Label Designs Enhance Your Cards
HGA’s custom labels enhance graded In The Game cards by offering a personalized and visually striking touch that complements the design aesthetics of In The Game’s trading cards. The ability to tailor labels with custom designs and colors allows collectors to create a cohesive and unique presentation that resonates with the themes of the In The Game cards. This level of customization not only adds an extra layer of visual appeal but also serves as a storytelling element, allowing collectors to highlight specific details or commemorate special moments associated with their In The Game cards. As a result, the combination of In The Game’s quality cards and HGA’s custom labels creates an individualized collector experience, fostering a deeper connection between the collector and their graded In The Game cards.
What Makes Grading With HGA Different
With the launch of HGA in 2021 a revolution in the grading industry began. HGA focuses on bringing a new focus to the many things that customers had been wanting from existing companies for years. Focusing on these 4 principles HGA continues to improve the grading process and strives to push grading to the next level.
Precision
Our hybrid grading approach combines the best of technology with human expertise, ensuring accurate and consistent grades.
Turnaround Time
We pride ourselves on our efficient grading process, ensuring you get your cards back in a timely manner. Your turnaround is guaranteed, or the grading is free of charge.
Customer Service
Our team is always available to answer any queries and guide you through the submission process. We’re committed to customer service.
Transparency
With HGA, you’ll always know the status of your card, from submission to return.
Start Your Submission
Ready to get your In The Game cards graded with the best in the business? Click here to start your submission with HGA today!