Ceremonies that celebrate athletic achievements date back to ancient times. The modern tradition of presenting sports medals and trophies was inspired by the ceremonies held in ancient Greece during the Olympics, which began as a religious festival and would later incorporate athletics. In those days, Olympic victors were honored with ceremonies and given keepsake objects to remember their feats. Organizers of the ancient Olympics were imperial officers tasked with making the ceremonies feel meaningful.
Here are some tips you can follow to make your next trophy presentation a meaningful and memorable event.
Dress Appropriately
If trophies are going to be awarded right after a final game or competition, presenters should dress up in a manner befitting the moment, particularly if they are league administrators or school officials. Coaches can wear dresses or suits even if they are not expected to present awards.
Make the Coach or Manager a Presenter
For children and young athletes, playing tournaments is a developmental part of life, one that emphasizes mentoring, learning, achievement, and gratitude. These values can be instilled when presenting trophies by letting a team coach or manager hand out trophies, plaques, or medals to each player. The words “Congratulations, I am proud of you” can go a long way toward shaping a young person’s life.
Recognize Everyone Who Should Be Recognized
The sports trophy tradition involves one major award for the organization and related medals or keepsakes for players and other individuals. Leagues have rotating cups or trophies that teams can hold for one tournament season. A smaller replica trophy can be kept for posterity. Team members can either get medals or tiny versions of the trophies, and these awards should be given to all individuals who worked with the team. All players should receive awards, even those who were injured or did not get to play for another reason. Moreover, coaches, assistants, managers, and administrators should get at least a small plaque.
Plan a Casual Celebration
Young athletes are more likely to enjoy going out for pizza after the awards ceremony than the ceremony itself. Trophies and medals can be displayed at a casual gathering right after the ceremony, but not at a party scheduled to take place days later.
Deliver a Memorable Speech
Whether a coach, manager, or organizer is tasked with speaking at the awards ceremony, the speech should be rehearsed for adequate delivery. A good speech will have three major parts: a recap of the season, personal stories about players who worked very hard to secure their position in the team, and an inspirational message about the future.
Get in touch with Gold Medallion Awards if you need a trophy or multiple trophies to give out to the winners on your team. We also provide a wide array of glass and acrylic awards for various occasions. Give us a call today at 858-279-4970 to learn more.