Planning your club's presentation night

An end-of-season presentation is the night players remember. It thanks volunteers, keeps juniors coming back next season, and gives parents something to share. Here's a simple plan any grassroots club can follow.

1. Pick the date early

Most clubs hold presentations within a few weeks of the last game, while the season is fresh. Book the venue (clubhouse, school hall or function room) two to three months ahead; popular weekends go fast in May and June for football and in September for cricket.

2. Decide the awards

Keep it fair and keep it consistent across age groups. Popular choices are:

• Players' Player: voted for by the squad.
• Manager's Player or Coach's Award: chosen by the coaches.
• Most Improved: great for juniors and new starters.
• Top Scorer, Golden Glove or Best Bowler: for the stats fans.
• Clubman or Clubwoman of the Year: for the volunteer who makes it all happen.

For under-sevens and mini sections, many clubs give every child a medal rather than picking winners.

3. Set a budget per player

A simple way to budget is a medal for everyone plus a few trophies per team. Medals with ribbons usually cost a pound or two each when bought for a whole squad, and individual trophies range from a few pounds to £30 or more for a centrepiece award. Bulk medal and team packs can bring the cost per child right down.

4. Order with time for engraving

Engraving takes time, so order at least three to four weeks before the night, and get names checked by each team's manager first. Spelling mistakes are the most common reason for a re-order.

5. Run the night

• Start with the youngest age groups so families with small children can head home early.
• Have a running order, a microphone and someone taking photos.
• Thank the sponsors, the volunteers and the referees.
• Share the photos on your club's social media and your TopSitez page afterwards.

Where to get trophies and medals

Our sister site Trophy Supplier brings four UK trophy shops together in one place, sorted by sport and award title: football, cricket, rugby, netball, medals and presentation cups. Free engraving is included on selected lines.

Trophy Supplier is run by the same Sheffield business as TopSitez.