Participation Trophies Yes? No?

One of the talked-about topics among coaches, sports teams, sports organizations, and parents is Participation Trophies.

Should we give young athletes Participation trophies? Is it a good thing or a bad thing?

Some believe it gives kids a sense of entitlement and gives them a false reality of the real world. While others believe it's a great way to increase participation in youth sports and build youth athletes' self-esteem.

I thought I'd share with you the benefits and drawbacks of participation trophies and allow you to your conclusion.

Benefits:

To many people, having participant trophies encourages young athletes to attend training and games. This gives them a sense of recognition of their efforts and also teaches the importance of being involved in a team and being active. Consistently encouraging young athletes, can lead them to take part in future sports and be contributing members of the sports organization.

It can help improve a young athlete's self-esteem and confidence. Even though they might not be the best player on their team, the fact they are recognized for their efforts and dedication will stand them in good stead. They will constantly continue to work hard and may even stay in the sport for the long term.

Participant Trophies can also elevate a young athlete's success. If they are showing up at the correct time for training, dedicated themselves to improving their game, and being good team players, these values should not go unnoticed and should be recognized as these are the life skills that sport teaches us and can be used throughout their life.

Drawbacks:

A consequence of participation trophies is that it kills the competition in youth sport. It sends a message that you don't have to play hard or try to do your best. Because no matter if you win or lose you will still be rewarded. Losing is not a bad thing, it can teach young athletes the importance of perseverance and dedication and that losing is part of the long-term process.

Failure is part of sport and life. Young athletes must learn from their mistakes and failure so that they can develop mental strength and learn how to recover and face adversity. By handing out participation trophies, young athletes will not learn from their mistakes, will struggle to face adversity, and won't grow as a person.

Many people believe that participation trophies can be misleading for youth athletes. It motivates kids to participate in sports for the wrong reasons. A young athlete should not just participate in sport for a trophy but understand the positive effects sport has on their life. It allows them to be active, play with their friends, and learn life skills that will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

No matter where you sit on this topic it's important to think about the following:

If you do hand out participation trophies at what age do you stop? The older kids get they could lose their value and meaning.

Participation trophies have s different effects on young athletes. Some young athletes thrive with the concept,others may need other forms of motivation.

You need to also assess your goals and objectives as a coach, team, or organization. Is your team or organization focused on participation or performance?

For me, I believe that young athletes should enjoy sport, and be taught the value of sport and the life lessons learned through sport.