How to Write to Pro Football Players

Nothing beats the thrill of watching your favourite pro football player make a great play. Sending a letter to a professional football player can be a memorable experience for children and adults alike. All members of the National Football League (NFL) support healthy fan involvement and welcome open communication with team members. Keep in mind that while football players receive a lot of media attention for their professional skills, they are still human beings. Write your letters with respect and consideration for them as individuals.

Decide who you wish to contact. You can write to an individual, an entire team or a subgroup such as the "O-line" (the offensive line).

Consider what you would like to say in your letter. Congratulate the player or group on a game well played or offer condolences for a loss. Avoid addressing personal issues with a familiar tone. (e.g. Your baby looks just like you. I hope he didn't inherit your fashion sense!) Keep in mind that you do not have a personal relationship with this person. Even well-intentioned comments can cause offence.

Write your letter, then ask friends and family for suggestions and comments.

Make any changes you wish, then finalise the letter.

Go to your player's team website and click on the link to contact players. Each team uses a different link; check "Contact Us," "FAQs," and "Fan Zone."

Follow the instructions to send the letter. While many teams accept e-mailed fan letters, they recommend hard copies be sent directly to the stadium. Adhere to these guidelines when sending your letter. Improperly addressed or packaged letters are likely to be thrown away.