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

[Tom Line]

Originally Posted by EricH

I'd go for the following:
1) replace the bronze medals with pins of some kind
2) restore the old trophy sizes
3) eliminate the automatic second trophy per award (Any team that wants it can request it, though--they pay shipping)
4) local suppliers for the trophies and medals, if possible--have them show up Wed. during field setup with trophies boxed, then any leftover trophies get set on to the next event or ATL.

Seems that that could reduce a lot of shipping costs, and some production costs at the same time. Logistics are a little more convoluted, but how many teams actually give the second trophy to a sponsor? (And how many sponsors already have too many?)

I like the majority of your ideas - except #3.

We ALWAYS give our trophies to our major sponsor - the one that gives us space for our build, design, field, and kicks in a pretty penny to boot. They have the trophies in their community outreach cases, right in the main isle when you walk in.

Keep the second trophies!