Updated 9 November 2026 · Written for grassroots coaches by Gafferbook
Great end-of-season awards for kids recognise effort and character as well as ability: most improved, best team-mate, never-give-up, coach's award and fun awards like best celebration. Many youth teams give every player something, such as a certificate with a personal line about their season, so no one leaves feeling forgotten.
Award ideas
- Player of the season and players' player
- Most improved and best attitude at training
- Best team-mate and never-give-up award
- Golden glove and top scorer (if your league is competitive)
- Fun awards: best celebration, loudest on the pitch, best hair
Keeping it fair
For younger teams, many clubs give every child a medal or certificate and keep individual trophies to a minimum. Write one personal line for each player about something they did well. Keep a note during the season (your team hub keeps player notes) so you're not trying to remember in May.
Make it look good
Make free player of the season graphics and certificates in your club colours. A season reel is a lovely way to end the presentation night.