I've had the pleasure of knowing a few pro athletes in hockey and football, one superstar the rest role players. They all talk about the days when a kid would come up and ask for an autograph because they were excited about meeting a pro athlete. The kids would cherish them, pulling them out to show friends that they had met a celebrity.
Now as often as not the kid runs to an adult and asks "how much is this one worth?" I don't blame guys that have lost their enthusiasm for fans.
Back in the 60's when I was a little tot we lived on Maplewood Ave near Irving Park Rd. To avoid traffic on Irving, some of the players living in the north suburbs would short cut behind out neighborhood. My friends and I would hang out at one corner with a sign asking for autographs. I remember Santo, Kessinger, Huntley, and a few others stopping and signing autographs. I forget which pitcher threw a no hitter and received a car (Hootin?) he stopped and gave us a ride. Imagine if a 7 year old jumped in a car with a stranger today.
I'm not sure if it's the money that spoiled today's athletes or if they are just reflecting society.