Trophies symbolize triumph and the reward of success. The most common accomplishment where winners receive these symbols are after some sort of sporting event. Read on to learn more about them.
Trophies symbolize triumph and success. The most common accomplishment where individuals receive these symbolic gifts are after winning some sort of sporting event. Medals,
plaques and trophies are commonly given to athletes after winning a game, race, catching a fish and more. While the most important aspect of any athletic event is the experience and sportsmanship that was exhibited, these metallic sculptures are often treasured memorabilia lining a person’s fireplace mantle or bookshelf. Here are some things to think about:
- Type of metal means something: These items are often made from metal which is golden, silver or brass. This detail pertains to statues as well as dangling medals and awards. Gold is often reserved for first place achievement; silver usually means second place and brass is quite often reserved for third or honorable mention. Some less expensive versions are made from plastic though may be painted in the metallic colors.
- Sculpture of athlete in action: These statues often have a replica of an individual performing the event in which the award was given for. Examples include a baseball player, runner, bowler or fisherman. Sometimes, an alternative choice is for sporting equipment to be commemorated in the statuary. Examples include a bowling ball and pins or a pair of running shoes.
- Engraved message: The winners’ names, date of win and title of the competition are often engraved in a plaque set into the statue. This makes the item an heirloom for the winner and family members, as well.
- Team trophy: If an entire team wins an event, the team award may be held in the school or public building’s display case.
- Other places to receive these awards: Statuary awards are also given out to entertainment stars, such as in movies, television shows and musical genres.
Emmy, Tony Awards and Grammies are all examples of this.
- Ancient times: Back in the ancient days of war, memorabilia deemed to be “prizes” or “spoils” were often hung up or displayed to prove who won a battle. Columns from downed buildings, weapons of the losing sides, etc. were put up to be viewable.
- Other names: Some types of trophies are referred to as “cups,” “jugs.” Some symbols which are similar are wreaths and ribbons.
- Common sports associated with these awards: Wrestling, golfing, bowling, boxing, archery, hockey, football, sharpshooting, soccer, baseball, running, auto racing, horse racing and other showmanship.
- Other arenas: The military rewards victors with various types of symbolic awards as well as athletic competitions. Video game competitions may sometimes give these statues to winners, too. Beauty contestants may offer a type of trophy to the winners as well as an array of other prizes.
- “Trophy wife”: Can a human female be considered to be in this category? Believe it or not; young and beautiful women married to older and successful men are often categorized as “trophy wives.” Why is this so? Although this term is metaphorical and somewhat sexist, it does imply that these attractive female arm ornaments were obtained by these victorious men as rewards for their success in life.
Trophies are symbolic ways to reward victors in many areas of life. They are souvenirs many are proud to own and display.
