A championship team’s season is long, grueling, rewarding, and fun. Any team that makes it through all that to win the league’s championship or another big game deserve a special moment. Their win should be celebrated and captured with team photographs, plaques, trophies and more. Let’s take a look at 5 important reasons to recognize and celebrate championships.
1. You worked hard to get here.
This isn’t a youth league participation trophy. Championship trophies aren’t just handed out. Your team earned that trophy or that medal- and the recognition and respect that come with it. Think of all the hard work that the players put into the season. They worked for glory, not just a pat on the back. Do something special to recognize and memorialize their effort, such as hanging a championship banner in your gym for all to see for years to come.
2. Big games don’t come around every day.
When the players pull out a big win in a game that matters more than others, it should be rewarded with an extended celebration. This reinforces the notion that when the stakes are higher, performance and execution will be rewarded. So, when the players come through and step up their games to pull out the victory in a championship or another big game, let it be known that it is indeed a big deal. This will motivate them to ramp up their efforts to make it to the next season’s championship game and win it.
3. It’s fun!
Remember, sports is all about having a good time. When the players come through in the clutch, they should be allowed to do what they’ve always wanted. Most just want to have a good time with their teammates. Take them out to dinner, throw a party at the coach’s house or do something special like renting out a movie theater, restaurant or a gaming room.
4. Motivation for next season.
When your student athletes get a taste of victory, they’re going to be hungry for more. Let them savor the taste, remember it, and feel all the glory that comes with a big win. Then, make sure they’re ready to come back for seconds. When they emerge with the victory, seize the moment and celebrate it for all that it’s worth. Success is a powerful motivator- let them eat it up, and they’ll want it again.
5. Do it for the memories.
By relaxing in a championship celebration, the team will create memories that will last a lifetime. Players and coaches will look back on that moment in time as a high point that they’ll cherish forever.
Note: This post was originally published in September 2014 and has been revamped and updated with new ideas and information.