From Bill's Blog: Merits of replacing bronze participation medals

[smurfgirl]

I think replacing the bronze medals with pins is a good idea and it will be embraced by most teams and individuals if it is the decision that FIRST makes. Logistically, it makes more sense- pins are smaller, weigh less, use fewer materials, easier to ship, cost less, etc. In terms of having a memory from the season, pins are also a great idea- it's cool to have a memento of each game and season that varies from year to year instead of the same medal each year. Pins are fun to collect and easier to wear and store than medals. Since the bronze medal at the end of your regional event isn't the reason why people are involved in the program, I don't think most people would have a problem making the adjustment to pins instead of medals.