I think the local angle is always a good card to play, as you say there are always those that don't want to wait, and feel more comfortable buying somewhat locally anyway.
Having the stock also gives you the flexibility to list in other areas, such as free classified offers in local newspapers and those sorts of avenues.
When you have the stock ready to send then you should find a market, but don't go crazy with the price, people will pay a little more in my opinion, but there will most definitely be a limit.
If you're confident that it's a seller, then I would suggest it's worth a risk.
Here is an interesting angle to look at. You mention the football games where these items are popular, so check out the merchandise stands, see if they are actually selling them there at the game.
If they are, check your pricing. You may well find that they aren't cheap, they certainly won't be anywhere near as cheap as on ebay in that environment.
If you find that you have a better source that the seller, work on developing a wholesale deal. That would put you in a very simple supply situation where you could reduce your margin on a volume deal.
Who knows, never simply assume they are getting the product at the same price as you. Check it out, if there turns out to be an avenue there, there will be other avenues with other stall holders at other events.
Of course the more volume you purchase in, the sweeter the price you'll be able to negotiate from your supplier, and the better the price.........the more business you would be able to do!
Just an idea, but as you are one for thinking outside the square I would suggest it could be worth taking a good look at!