Few things are as sad as an athlete dying young. The names Clemente, Munson, Bias and Bostock are etched in our memories forever. Their play on the field led us all to believe they were invincible. But tragically each died well before his time.
Brian Piccolo's name is near the top of the list.
The man who was the inspiration for Brian's Song, one of the all-time sports tear jerkers, signed this 8" x 10" in blue marker. Piccolo played for the Bears for four seasons and was gone after a short battle with cancer. Signed 8" x 10" photos of Piccolo are almost non-existent. While Piccolo signed index cards and scribed his name on team-signed footballs, a signature on a photo is very tough.
Of the known Piccolo autographed photos, many are personalized. This is one of the few which isn't. The running back added his "Best Wishes" in blue marker. The signature is flawless. There is a tack hole on the top but it does not approach the autograph.
Easily, one of the most coveted signatures of any Chicago Bear.
A letter from a former Cubs grounds keeper will attend and further vouch for authenticity. This has never been offered before.
02057
(JSA Auction Letter)