Replay Sports Cards, a national franchise dedicated exclusively to the hobby, has signed a new franchise agreement with Rob Ansalone to bring the brand’s modern card shop experience to the Bellmore/Merrick area of Long Island, marking Replay’s entrance into New York. The new shop is currently in development with a targeted fall opening.
A Long Island native from Merrick, Ansalone spent several years as an insurance broker and previously owned a gym franchise before exploring his next entrepreneurial opportunity. While sports and sports collectibles have always been a passion, Ansalone was drawn to Replay because it gave him a way to enter the card shop business with the support, structure and collaboration of an experienced franchise team.
Ansalone first became interested in the hobby again after reconnecting with the cards he had saved from childhood. When he shared them with his son, the two formed a special connection around collecting, eventually turning the hobby into something they could enjoy together. That experience is shaping his vision for the Bellmore shop.
“I’ve loved sports and collecting since I was a kid, but getting back into cards with my son reminded me how special this hobby really is,” said Ansalone. “I saw a real opportunity on Long Island, but I didn’t want to build a card shop on my own without the right support. From my first conversation with Mike Martin, it felt like we had known each other for years, and Replay felt like the right opportunity for me.”
Both Ansalone and Replay Co-Founder Mike Martin are from the Bellmore/Merrick area, and that shared Long Island background made the opportunity feel more personal from the start for Ansalone.
“Long Island has a deep sports culture and a strong sense of community, and Rob understands both because he grew up here,” said Martin. “When Rob and I realized we were both from the same area, there was an immediate connection. He understands the kind of neighborhood shop Replay is building: one that is inviting, educational and centered on relationships. We’re excited to support him as he brings that experience to Bellmore/Merrick and helps make the hobby more accessible for families across Long Island.”
