Kids' Basketball Award Ideas

Recognizing kids for their participation and hard work is as important as coaching the basic skills required to play basketball. Pointing out each child's efforts boosts self-esteem and self-confidence. Every player on the team requires some sort of recognition. Creativity will help you determine which basketball awards to give each team member.

  1. Certificates

    • Every player that participated on the team should get a participation certificate. Pre-printed achievement certificates are available, making it easy to fill in the name of each team member. Date the certificate and sign it, along with the other coaches names. This provides the players with an item they can hang on their bedroom wall.

    Plaques

    • Plaques are a way to provide kids with something valuable and that lasts a lifetime. Most plaques are made of wood and have a metal plate that can be engraved. Instead of wood, some awards providers have glass or plastic plaques available. Add a photo of each team member on the front of the item.

    Ribbons

    • Ribbons are a popular award for youth basketball players. A ribbon makes the kids feel they've accomplished something. Ribbons come in different colors, blue usually signifying first place. Hand out other colored ribbons to players for individual achievements. Customize the ribbons to say anything you want, in order to recognize each individual player.

    Medals

    • Medals are less-expensive than other awards, but can enhance the power of the award given to the players. Different medals can be given for individual achievements. These awards can have chains or ribbons attached so that the medal can be worn around the child's neck. Each medal can be engraved with the child's name and achievement.

    Trophies

    • Trophies are one of the most popular basketball award given to kids. Trophies are available in different styles, such as a basketball player shooting a ball or a basketball on a stand. Each trophy should have the child's name engraved on the award, in addition to an individual achievement, such as outstanding passer or most spirited.

    Creativity

    • One of the most important things to remember as a youth basketball coach is that each player should be recognized. Be creative when deciding on individual achievements. Every player has something that makes them an individual; have fun with this as part of the awards ceremony. Hand out awards for the craziest shoes, most unusual jump shot, best hairstyle and other individual characteristics.