[Mr. Pockets]

Here's a crazy compromise suggestion: Instead of medals or pins (neither or which you will probably not wear a whole lot) what if FIRST gave out safety glasses or some sort of mini-tool as awards for participation (e.g. at Wayne state district everyone got a participation screwdriver from the college). Chances are the tools-awards would be significantly cheaper than the medals and more frequently used than either the medals or the pins. Plus, if FIRST gave out a different tool every year then the "awards" would be less redundant and hopefully wouldn't just pile up and be forgotten. Additionally, the tools might almost end up conveying the idea: great job for making it through, here. Keep up the good work and let's see you do even better next year! The recipients can would then hopefully make use of their "awards" and by doing so keep the significance and the memories associated with the "award" always in their minds. Not to mention that the extras are still usable for team workshops and such. I admit the idea has flaws, but it seemed kind of, sort of, maybe plausible. Any thoughts?