Turning his childhood hobby into a thriving business, Alex Altenhof spends everyday surrounded by his passion while connecting with fellow collectors who share his love for trading cards. Michiana Sports Cards in Granger has become a welcoming space for collectors of all ages to buy, sell, and trade cards.
Altenhof discovered his love for trading cards at a young age.
“As a kid, I started collecting Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! cards,” Altenhof said. “Later, as I got into sports. I became interested in collecting sports cards, too — especially Kobe Bryant cards. My stepfather was massively into collecting cards his whole life, so he helped me out a lot along the way.”
Growing up, Altenhof moved frequently across several states, ultimately attending Elkhart Memorial High School. He then continued his education at Indiana University South Bend, where he studied history.
As he worked in various fields through the years — from coaching and car detailing to the steel industry — Altenhof had a lingering desire to start his own business.
“I’ve always wanted to work for myself and run my own business — I just didn’t know what kind,” Altenhof said. “When the opportunity to open Michiana Sports Cards came around, I knew this was it.”
While visiting a friend’s shop, Altenhof felt a spark.
“My friend, Andy Albert at Indy Card Exchange in Indianapolis, was a huge inspiration,” Altenhof said. “As a collector, I’d visit his shop, and it made me want to create something similar.”
With Albert’s support, Altenhof opened Michiana Sports Cards in June 2023.
Altenhof’s vision was to create a welcoming environment for collectors to come together and have fun. To foster that community, he hosts regular trade nights where collectors meet to trade cards, enjoy food, and build connections.
Working with his favorite hobby every day brings Altenhof a sense of fulfillment. He enjoys meeting fellow collectors and finds excitement in the variety of items people bring into his store.
Beyond his shop, Altenhof is committed to giving back, supporting charities — like Pucks for Autism — by giving out cards or donating sports memorabilia to charity auctions.
When he’s not in the store, Altenhof likes to stay active by golfing, playing pickleball, and spending time outdoors. Of course, he still collects cards of his own as well.
“I’ve shifted from quantity to quality in my collection,” Altenhof said. “I still like picking up new Kobe cards, and as a Seattle Seahawks fan, I collect their cards, too. I also go after Pokémon cards that I couldn't afford as a kid; it's kind of nostalgic.”
For Altenhof, the biggest reward comes from the friendships he’s formed and the new people he meets every day through his shop.
“Hitting a nice card is only awesome when you can share it with others!” Altenhof said.