Comments and some suggestions for consideration.
First, I (and obviously others) like getting a tangible trophy at the end of the year. Yes, I would still come and play even if I didn't get a ribbon or an end of year trophy, but they are fun to have and I haven't gotten completely jaded yet.
Second, trophies in past years were much more attractive and interesting than this year's. The engraved glass and wood ones and even the one with the car and cones are things you can hang in a den. I am sure a fair amount of work went into this year's plaques, but they just don't compare to previous years.
CoryM's suggestion of having separate trophies and engraved plates is workable, although it then eliminates the etched glass and engraved wood trophies of a couple of years ago.
Suggestions:
1. Throughout the year, allow AX attendees to fill out a "trophy form". Basically, three choices-
If at end of year, I am eligible for a trophy,
___ A. I do not want to receive a trophy - the club may use the trophy funds for other purposes;
___ B. I wish to receive my trophy by mail, at:
<mailing address>;
___ C. I intend to collect my trophy in person, either at an awards dinner or at one of the first AX events of the next year. If I cannot collect in person, please mail to:
<mailing address>.
2. Announce and post a notice prominently on the trailer all year:
"If you think you may be eligible for a trophy at the end of the year, you MUST fill out a "trophy form". If we don't have one on file for you by 1 December, and you are otherwise eligible, NO trophy will be made."
3. Only make trophies for those that want them.
4. Mail the trophies to the mailing address if they aren't picked up in person.
This approach would seem to address all the concerns and issues raised in this thread.
Those that want trophies will get them, and none will be thrown away.
Comments
Other ideas