How to Plan a Sports Medal Ceremony

Sweat, tears, and even a bit of blood -- your team has given it all during the season. The wins were exhilarating and the practices grueling, but you learned valuable lessons and always had each other's backs.

At the end of the season, what could be better than recognizing athletes' efforts and talents by hosting a sports medal ceremony? Read on for some tips and tricks so that you can plan an event that will be remembered for years to come!

Set the Date

Choose a date that falls not long after the season has wrapped up. If your sports club participates in both home and travel seasons, you may want to hold ceremonies twice a year.

The day and time are dependent on the nature of your club.

If this is a peewee or junior sports club, an awards ceremony during a weekend day is preferable. This way, the whole family can come. For older athletes, choose an evening when everyone can get together.

Either way, make sure to give attendees plenty of notice so they can save the date.

Look at Your Budget

Chances are that celebrations like this one are already built into your sports club's budget. In fact, part of the athletes' dues may well be earmarked for an end-of-season banquet or party.

If you wish to host the ceremony at a private venue, such as a restaurant or banquet hall, most of your budget will go towards renting the space. Smaller teams can get together at the coach's house or meet up at a local park.

There are two options for sports clubs on a budget.

You can charge a small fee for tickets to the banquet or party. Or you can consider throwing a potluck, and ask everyone to bring a dish to pass.

If you choose this latter option for your sports medal ceremony, make sure someone signs up to bring paper plates, plastic utensils, napkins, and disposable cups.

What about Refreshments?

No sports medal ceremony is complete without food and drink.

You can feed everyone on the cheap by ordering a sandwich or cheese-and-cracker tray. Catered events can also be relatively inexpensive depending on what cuisine you choose.

For a truly memorable event, hire a food truck to come for the occasion.

If only adults will be present, it's a nice idea to spring for some champagne, or even just inexpensive wine and beer. For family-friendly events, provide enough soda or juice for everyone, or prepare a large bowl of punch.

Make Sure Everyone Feels Included

No matter what you think about Millennials and their "participation trophies," it's still nice to acknowledge every team for his contribution.

Some ideas for doing so include awards for "Most Improved Player," "Best Team Spirit," "Perfect Practice Attendance," or "Good Sportsmanship."

Don't forget the unsung heroes of your team, such as the water boys, bench managers, referees, or spouses and parents of players.

Any Medal Ceremony Calls for Great Medals

Medals are wonderful keepsakes. Your team members will cherish them long after they have hung up their skates, cleats, helmets, or trainers. So make sure to choose high-quality medals.

Want something fancier for those players whose efforts really shone? Try a trophy, a crystal award, or a loving cup.

Request a brochure to see the wide range of awards, medals, and other keepsakes we offer, or browse our website for inspiration!