I probably will have an unpopular opinion but... I definitely see the value in giving every kid a participation trophy - each one participated in making the team have a successful, fun season, and they all deserve to be recognized for helping the team. When it comes to individual, "best" awards, well... that's a whole different issue. Yes, each child has made an important contribution to the team. However, if you have to come here to get ideas of awards to issue, I would argue that these awards aren't really... personal or important. Generic awards are transparently generic - the kid who gets the "best cheer curls" award (just throwing a crazy idea out there because you need ten more, lol) is going to know that you were reeeeeeeally stretching to get that last idea for a best award, you know? I'm not sure if I'm being clear.
Here's my suggestion - have each kid write down the three things they are most proud of about themselves, three things they liked best about the season, and three things they look forward to doing next year (always want to have a reason for your customers to return!) Use those as a guide when giving out awards. The kid that you (or the coach) thinks has "Highest Jumps" may actually be most proud of finally getting a particular skill in tumbling this year, and the kid who has just so-so jumps may be really proud about finally learning to rotate her hips in toe touches. When Suzie is awarded her trophy, it won't be for "Highest Jumps," but rather, the coach will say "Suzie really improved her toe touches this year, and had a great time at the competition where she performed her back handspring for the first time. I look forward to next year, where she will work on achieving her tuck!" It will take more time to do awards this way, but I really think it would be much more meaningful to the kids and it will highlight everyone's contributions rather than foster jealousy (because there is *always* a kid who thinks she has higher jumps or a better smile or is a better back spot, you know?)
