Ansalone’s decision to join the national franchise follows a period of reconnecting with the hobby alongside his son. Seeking a business model that balanced his passion for sports with professional support, he found a partner in Replay co-founder Mike Martin. The two share roots in the Bellmore-Merrick area, a connection that shaped the shop's focus on neighborhood engagement and accessibility. The store will offer a full-service environment designed to demystify the collecting process for newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Replay Sports Cards Expands to Long Island With New Franchise
Rob Ansalone, a former gym owner and lifelong collector, is bringing the first Replay Sports Cards franchise to New York. The Bellmore-Merrick shop, slated for a fall opening, aims to anchor the local hobby community by providing a structured, family-friendly retail space for trading, grading, and buying cards.
Ahead of the Long Island launch, the Replay leadership team is heading to New York City for Fanatics Fest, running July 16-19. Alongside co-founders Mike Weinberger and Brent Schepel, the team will operate a retail space within the Fanatics Collect Card Combine. This activation serves as a physical introduction to the brand, featuring affordable inventory and educational resources aimed at families. By focusing on approachable price points and hands-on guidance, Replay intends to lower the barrier to entry for the next generation of collectors.
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