The Ultimate Trophy Buying Guide for Coaches

The Ultimate Trophy Buying Guide for Coaches

Posted by Ted DeRuyter on Jun 18, 2025

The Ultimate Trophy Buying Guide for Coaches

The season’s over, the hard work is done, and now it’s time to celebrate. Whether you're coaching youth soccer, high school basketball, or a community swim team, honoring your players with trophies and awards is a powerful way to recognize their dedication, effort, and spirit.

But where do you start? Here’s everything coaches need to know to find the perfect awards—without the stress.

1. Start with Your Budget

Before you shop, define how much you can spend. You’ll want to consider:

  • Number of players

  • Team staff or assistant coaches

  • Types of awards (e.g., participation, MVP, specialty awards)

  • Shipping and customization costs

Pro Tip: Look for bulk pricing or free shipping on orders over a certain amount—like at DecadeAwards.com.

2. Choose the Right Award Types

Not every player gets the MVP, but every player deserves to be celebrated. Consider a mix of:

  • Participation Trophies or Medals: Perfect for showing appreciation to every player.

  • MVP, Coach’s Award, Most Improved: Highlight standout achievements.

  • Funny or Custom Awards: “Best Hair,” “Loudest Cheer,” or “Practice Hero” bring smiles and boost team culture.

3. Pick the Right Format

Here are the most popular formats for youth and amateur sports:

  • ? Trophies: Classic and traditional—available in all sports themes.

  • ? Medals: Budget-friendly, lightweight, and great for younger players.

  • ? Plaques: Ideal for coaches, sponsors, or team captains.

  • ? Ribbons: Great for younger age groups or specific event recognition.

4. Personalization Options

Adding names, stats, or team details makes a trophy feel truly special. Look for:

  • Free engraving (often included with orders from Decade Awards)

  • Multiple lines of text

  • Options to upload logos or mascots

Engraving Tip: Keep it short, meaningful, and accurate. Double-check spelling!

5. Match the Award to the Age Group

  • Ages 5–10: Colorful, fun designs; medals are great too.

  • Ages 11–14: A mix of trophies and individual awards; they love seeing their names engraved.

  • High School & Club Teams: More serious, personalized plaques or resin trophies go a long way.

6. Don’t Forget the Coaches and Volunteers

Show appreciation to your assistant coaches, parent volunteers, or team managers with a special thank-you plaque or a “Team Spirit” award.

7. Plan Ahead

Order at least 2–3 weeks before your banquet or ceremony, especially during peak seasons. Need it fast? Look for vendors (like us!) that offer rush shipping or next-day production.

8. Where to Buy

✔️ Online Retailers like Decade Awards

  • Wide selection of sport-specific designs

  • Free engraving and fast shipping

  • Easy to browse, customize, and re-order

  • Also available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/decadeawards

Final Tip: Make It a Moment

Hand out each award with a story. Take a second to share what made each player shine. It’s not just about the trophy—it’s about the memory.

Wrap-Up

As a coach, your recognition can have a lasting impact. Choosing the right trophy helps mark the milestone—but it’s your words that make it unforgettable. Celebrate your team’s victories, big and small, with personalized awards that reflect their hard work and heart.

Need help picking the right ones? Reach out to our friendly team at DecadeAwards.com—we’re here to help you celebrate life’s victories.

#YouthSports #TeamRecognition #CoachTips #DecadeAwards

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