[bigbeezy]

during my first year, i thought the bronze medals we got were for making it to the elimination matches. This was, to me, a sort of 3rd place medal. when i came to learn that they were a "thanks for coming" medal I was sort of bummed. I dislike participation medals. Since then I only accepted a bronze medal if we were in the elims.

I would say if participation awards must be given, pins would be the best choice. Regionals could customize their own pin design. I would like to see bronze medals go either for making it to the elims, or for the semifinals.