Cory Quirk
Center (Ice Hockey) · Worcester Sharks (AHL Affiliate of San Jose Sharks)
Choice AHL Worcester Sharks Team Set #Not visible on front
Year & Era
2010-2011 — Modern Minor League Era
Card Type
Minor League Team Issue Base Card
Grade
4-5 (VG-EX) estimated
Rarity
Relatively rare compared to NHL cards; produced in limited quantities for local distribution at Worcester's DCU Center.
Overall Assessment
A standard minor league hockey card in mid-grade condition. Its primary value is sentimental or for team-set completion rather than financial investment.
Condition Grade
4-5 (VG-EX) estimated
Centering Assessment
Front: 60/40 Top-Bottom, 55/45 Left-Right; noticeably shifted toward the bottom-left.
Surface Condition
Near Mint; standard semi-gloss finish appears intact with no visible major scratches, though minor scuffing is common for this stock.
Corner Condition
Significant softening and whitening visible on the top-right and bottom-left corners; consistent with handling in a team-set environment.
Edge Condition
Noticeable chipping and white 'snowing' along the top and left edges due to the dark ink design and paper stock quality.
Print Quality
Average for minor league production; low-resolution photography and standard digital CMYK printing.
Estimated Value
$1.00 - $3.00 USD (Low liquidity, primarily sold as part of complete team sets)
Comparison to Known Examples
This copy shows more edge wear than typical 'top-loader' preserved examples from this set.
Authentication Tips
Look for the metallic 'Choice 2011' logo in the top right; check for standard card stock thickness and lack of pixelation in text.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended; the cost of grading significantly exceeds the market value of the card.
Red Flags
Note: This is an ice hockey card, not a football card, which may represent a misidentification by the user.
Provenance Notes
Distributed via the Worcester Sharks team store or given away during promotional nights at games in 2011.
Historical Context
Cory Quirk was a standout at UMass-Amherst before playing for the Worcester Sharks; part of the San Jose Sharks developmental system.
Market Trends
Flat; minor league cards typically only see movement if a player becomes an NHL star. Quirk spent most of his career in Europe (DEL/Denmark).
Investment Potential
Low; purely a niche collectible for fans of Worcester hockey or UMass alumni.
Similar Cards
Joe Pavelski or Logan Couture Worcester Sharks cards from the same era/brand.
Display & Preservation
Standard penny sleeve and top-loader; store away from direct sunlight to prevent the thin ink from fading.
Interesting Facts
The Worcester Sharks eventually relocated and became the San Jose Barracuda in 2015.