The Recognition Minute

Clever Boys Take the Trophy May 18 2017, 0 Comments

The beautiful game was taken to new heights last night when Bidvest Wits made their debut by winning their first Premiership title in the club’s history.  Goals from James Keene and Daine Klate no doubt swelled Gavin Hunt’s pride in his clever boys. 

It was a long, tough fight.  They stumbled in December by moving sideways with four draws.  In good form and spirit, Hunt’s never-say die attitude caught on.  Fortuitously assisted by a draw between Maritzburg United and Mamelodi Sundowns, they pulled through and raised the trophy on a convincing win of two goals to nil. 

By all accounts, this won’t be the last time that awards and accolades will be seen by this club.  A win at this stage is a great confidence booster.  Fitness is one thing and the lack of it can be a barrier to the sight of any trophy.  But the corporate psychy plays a very important role and that battle is won, for now.

We are proud to have shared in the success of the Absa PSL as designers and manufacturers of the custom-made Man of the Match trophy using 3D technology and our in-house skilled designers and skilled technicians.   A truly South African design, made by South Africans for a South African team.  We congratulate you and acknowledge Absa as sponsor, without who’s help, these beautiful events would not be possible.


A trophy is a trophy when… April 24 2017, 0 Comments

What makes a good trophy?  It is a sign of achievement.  It is a means of communication.  It is also a work of art.  It may even be central to your brand.  Both traditional and non-traditional trophies share these aspects in common.   What makes them different is style.  And what makes them good - it's up to you!

Traditional trophies are typically in the form of a cup or a chalice, usually silver of gold in colour if not in substance and stand proud on a base.  The base may be reserved for insignia, names of winners, dates, possibly quotes and other engraving.  It gives a platform on which the trophy can stand, a sort of ‘red carpet’ or it's special shoe.

It is important that a trophy has height.  Height speaks of a big win, a great achievement.  It is more visible.  Like all good trophies, it boasts about the winner and certifies success.  This is not only true for traditional trophies but for any custom-made award as well.

Some organisations choose to break with tradition and design their trophies using contemporary materials such as acrylics, crystal or aluminium.  This allows for many different shapes and sizes, to break with tradition and stand out in a crowd.  The corporate brand can be included in the shape or colours of the trophy, making it all the more unique.

To be different, one can have a pair of shoes bronzed and mounted with a plaque describing the purpose of the trophy.   In keeping with a South African theme, animal statuettes can be beautifully incorporated, representing values such as strength, dexterity, ingenuity or speed.  Or, how about a sports emblem such as a cricket ball or boxing glove?

Whatever your need, if it is in the line of trophies, there is something available for you.  If not already made, you can have it designed and made with our help.    Have a look at a few examples here: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/collections/types?q=Trophies%20-%20Customised

 

 

 

 


A GOLDEN TROPHY FOR NETBALL April 20 2017, 0 Comments

This month we see the start of the Brutal Fruit Netball Premier League (#BFNPL) and this is the Trophy they will be shooting for!! This custom-designed trophy depicts the three pillars of excellence – tuned body, tuned mind, tuned spirit.  It is slender and tall, symbolic of reaching skyward towards the goals; the path to victory and achievement.  The beautiful netball crowns the golden trophy, supported by the three pillars of excellence which are reminiscent of the players in full stretch for the netted hoops.

The wining team can look forward to owning this trophy, if only for a moment.  Proof that they are tops. This trophy will entice and lure the players to run, throw and shoot all in the name of netball and success and sportsmanship, one of the marks of our beautiful country.  And it promises to be Brutal!

 


Easter April 12 2017, 0 Comments

At this time of the year, awarding trophies might be furthest from your mind. It is school holidays.  The extra long, long weekend is just around the corner and many people will be out of town, enjoying some well-deserved recreation and family time.

Easter is a time of deep reflection for many people around the globe.   We share those sentiments as we think about the meaning of this season.  It is both a solemn occasion and a celebration.  But the celebration is not because of a race won or trophy earned.  Neither are any there any medals.  It is simple and profound; a time to remember redemption for both Christians and Jews.

So, may we take this opportunity to wish our Jewish customers and friends chag semeach this Pesach and our Christian customers and friends a truly blessed Easter.

Wherever you may travel, be safe.  We hope to see you soon, rested and refreshed.

 


A Brutal Netball Trophy April 07 2017, 0 Comments

Netball is a sport played and contested in relatively few countries internationally.  South Africa is one of them!

This month we see the start of the Brutal Fruit Netball Premier League (#BFNPL) in Durban.   Two opening matches on the 21st of April kick off the tournament – or should I rather say ‘shoot off’. 

This year they will be playing for a custom-designed trophy that depicts the three pillars of excellence – tuned body, tuned mind, tuned spirit.  It is slender and tall, symbolic of reaching skyward towards the goals; the path to victory and achievement.  The beautifully crafted netball crowns the golden trophy, supported by the three pillars of excellence which are reminiscent of the players in full stretch for the netted goals.

The wining team can look forward to owning this trophy, if only for a moment, as proof that they have summited. This trophy will entice and lure the players to run, throw and shoot all in the name of the game of netball for the sake of success and sportsmanship, one of the marks of our beautiful country.  And it promises to be Brutal!

 


Netball April 04 2017, 0 Comments

Netball is a fast, exciting, true team sport that involves throwing, running, jumping and catching.

Netball may be considered similar to basketball but how similar is a matter worth noting.  Some differences are found in the equipment and number of players in the team.  Dribbling is not allowed, no running with the ball; 7 players per team; ball must be passed in 3 seconds; ball and basket are slightly smaller; there is no backboard; players are designated to certain areas of the court.  Netball also has similarities to European handball, korfball and ultimate frisbee.

Traditionally, in South African schools, netball was the winter sport reserved mainly for girls.  While boys played rugby or soccer, the girls tackled netball.  Unlike Rugby, Netball is not a contact sport.  Players play the ball, strictly, and not the man.  But strength and fitness are key, as with most sports that require physical exertion.

Recognition is given in the form of trophies and medals, which are awarded to players and teams alike. Now is the time to think about what your trophies will look like.

Trophies come in many shapes and sizes, traditional and unique.  Custom trophies can be designed from the base up, so to speak, in a choice of many different materials.  Materials frequently chosen are acrylic (Perspex), aluminium and wood.  So don’t confine your thinking to a cup or a statuette if you are looking for something a little different.  There is so much more to make netball special this season!

Have a look here: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/search?q=custom&x=0&y=0

Add spirit to your hockey game with a netball trophy from Prestige Awards. 


Who Recognised St Patrick? March 17 2017, 0 Comments

Well, today is a Green day if you live in Ireland.  17 March - a day to remember St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland.  He is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in c400 AD and for ridding Ireland from all it's snakes.

Legend has it that St. Patrick used the shamrock, a plant with three leaves to teach about the Christian Holy Trinity.  This rather intriguing yet simple little plant is now the symbol of St. Patrick's day.

The absence of snakes in Ireland gave rise to the legend that St. Patrick chased them into the sea after they attacked him during a 40-day fast he was undertaking.  Was he the early snake whisperer or did he have special powers that banished these serpents for good?  It doesn't matter.  What might matter more is that he is still remembered today, 1500 years later.  Now that is recognition!

St. Patrick was never awarded a medal or a trophy for his work.  He didn't boast any obvious academic achievements and may have lived a very non-competitive life, yet he has been immortalized with green shamrocks, and usually with lots of Guinness as well.

There are no medals or even certificates for being a saint today.  In fact, awarding trophies is not likely at all, as the recognition of saints usually happens many years after their death.  It is widely believed that St. Patrick died on this day, which is why the 17th of March was chosen for this annual celebration.

If you are celebrating excellent academic or sporting success, or top-class business performance in the corporate world, Prestige Awards has the trophy, the medal and the certificate for you.  Many classical and traditional options are available for view.  For a really special occasion, we will help you design something unique, to be remembered for the next 1500 years.

Contact us via the website or email: sales@prestigeawards.co.za

HAPPY SAINT PATRICK'S DAY ALL!

 

 

 

 

 


One Umpire, Two Umpire, Three Umpire, Four! March 16 2017, 0 Comments

Except for December perhaps, field hockey season could be yours to choose.  While competitions may be held during a specific season, there is always time for a friendly or a bit of extra practice.

Indoor turf is a wonderful invention, allowing for all year round hockey.  This means extra time to prepare for the competitions, for the trophies, the accolades and the medals.

As with all team sports, there are rules that give clear boundaries to the manner in which the sport is to be played.  Players may have one aim in mind: to score trophy-winning goals but this, not at all costs.  When a player is seen by one of the two umpires to break the rules, they will be blown up, the play stopped and the necessary sanction imposed against them.

Field hockey is a little different to some other team sports in that there are two umpires controlling the game. Technically, each umpire is responsible for one of the two halves of the field but in practice, they often control the diagonal half of the total playing field. Sometimes a reserve umpire is appointed since injury is a possibility in this fast-moving game.  In world class games, technology is used to check certain decisions.  A video umpire is also available.

A video umpire is reserved to assist with decisions pertaining to the legality of a goal. Some of the more common transgressions that are well monitored by the video umpire are related to whether the ball actually crossed the goal line, whether it was hit from within the circle and whether it touched a player’s stick illegally.  There is little chance to sneakily break the rules these days… or maybe just occasionally, but it’s not worth it. The trophy stakes are high and the competition is fierce!

All trophies from Prestige Awards can be customised for the occasion, making them special:  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award

Aluminium trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class.  These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of the club, school or event.  We would love to discuss with you and ideas that you have for different designs and bring them to life in  our factory.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425

Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast.  The resin is given and antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy

Add spirit to your hockey game with a hockey trophy from Prestige Awards. 

 


Green Field Hockey March 13 2017, 0 Comments

What do Ireland and field hockey have in common?  One quite obvious similarity is the colour of the hockey field - green.   But, before we go too far on that one, it is not always the case.  With the advent of indoor 'field 'hockey, the colour could be an azure blue.

But why even mention Ireland?  It's nearly March 17, the day that the Irish celebrate St Patrick's day, all a-green.  I thought that was good enough reason.  Traditionally, Guinness and all things green are the order of the day but Ireland does have hockey teams, men and women, who bring back the trophies as well!  And, by no coincidence, all dressed in green.

In Ireland, the game is referred to as hockey but in Canada and the USA, it is called field hockey in order to differentiate between the game of ice hockey, which is more popular in those countries.  In Sweden and Norway, it is referred to as 'stick hockey', although the rules remain the same. 

Unlike association football, where the positions of players are well-defined and to some extent, remain that way during play, hockey is more fluid.  Players generally arrange themselves into forwards, mid-fielders and backs, where the forwards are technically attacking positions and the backs are defenders.  However, during play, anyone with the ball is considered to be attacking and anyone of the opposite team who receives the ball, defending, no matter what their nominated position may be.   This dynamic type of play adds excitement and daring to the game.  And on synthetic turf, the ball moves all the faster and never kept in limbo for a second!  Since everyone is a potential attacker, each player needs to remain alert and be on their guard or risk missing the opportunity to score.  And only when one has control of the ball is one likely to score and scoring wins the trophies.

 

So, whether you are playing sport this week - maybe even hockey - or just celebrating life, give a thought to St Patrick, if for no other reason that he is green and Irish.  And maybe he played hockey, too.

Trophies help add spirit to any game.   All trophies can be customised for the occasion.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award

Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design, then cast. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy

Mounted aluminium trophies are specially designed by Prestige Awards for a number of different sports and are unique in their class.  These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of the club, school or event.  We would love to discuss with you any ideas that you have for different designs and then bring them to life in  our factory.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425

Be sure that you are prepared with all the right trophies for the season.  Everything 'awards' is available from Prestige Awards.


Never Too Young for a Medal or Too Old for a Trophy March 10 2017, 0 Comments

There are some sports that are clearly not for the young of age.  Running over hurdles, weight lifting and possibly gymnastics need some height and some power and height but hockey is different.   Start whenever you want to!

If you are young and you want to play, find a stick your size and begin.  If you are at varsity, choose a stick and boots that fit and play.  Now, this is where it gets interesting.  If you are a veteran, young or old, it is never too late.  Just start to play.

Starting something new is challenging at times but before you decide that the challenge may be beyond you, think first of the benefits.  One does not have to be a hockey star or living legend, earning all the trophies and weighted down with gold medals.  Nor does one need risk becoming a late legend with no trophies and medals left for the mantelpiece. 

There are many reason to play hockey, such as social, health and some good networking, too.

Hockey can be a strenuous game, so start out slow, at your own pace.  Be prepared to leave the shore or familiarity (and the couch, also often too familiar) and begin.

For those young players who dream of winning in their varsity years, it is advisable to start no later than during the first year of high school.  Even better would be to start during their first years of junior school, between ages four and seven.  To become familiar with the game and develop the skills takes a little time.  Starting early may give one the edge but nevertheless, it is always the right time to start.  It is also good to become known among the hockey fraternity if you want to be noticed for selection for regional or provincial teams.

Learning is a process, so the sooner one starts, the better.  Even a toddler can begin by being involved in the sporting activities and watching the game, for just a few minutes every week to develop interest in the game.  If Mom, Dad or older sibling play hockey, even better.  Parents who know just a little about the game can start teaching their children in the back yard!

One way of encouraging hockey is for kids to attend camps. This allows them to try out a stick, hit some balls and learn a few tricks from enthusiasts in an unpressured environment while having great fun.  Playing around with a sport as well as playing the sport is how it all starts, which is why football and rugby seem to come so naturally to many kids in SA, and sometimes cricket and tennis as well.  It also why people may wait until later in life before playing hockey!

So remember, if road-running medals are not your thing, squash trophies are a piece of old tacky, you can always play for a hockey award.  And if medals and trophies are for someone else, then I say again, just start.  It’s a fantastic, racy sport that will keep you fit for as long as you can run upright and hold a stick.

One day, when you throw in the stick, don’t throw in the towel because hockey would be so much less without you.  Become a spectator. 

Trophies help add spirit to any game.   All trophies can be customised for the occasion.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award

Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast. The resin is given and antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy

Aluminium trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class.  These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of the club, school or event.  We would love to discuss with you and ideas that you have for different designs and bring them to life in  our factory.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425

 

 


No Trophy Without a Stick March 08 2017, 0 Comments

It is said that the hockey stick is the most important piece of equipment used in the game.  Well, put another way, a game of hockey without sticks just isn’t hockey.

The stick is no ordinary branch from a tree.  It undergoes a lot of punishment in the hands of the player, which means careful crafting from the right materials is essential. 

Sticks can be made from a variety of materials, traditionally from hard wood such as ash.  As technology developed, other materials with equally strong, flexible properties were used.  These include composites such fiberglass, graphite, carbon and Kevlar.  Kevlar is a trade name for a very durable, spun fibre, used originally as a replacement for steel in racing car tyres.

Right-handed players may have an advantage when it comes to hockey since only right-handed sticks are manufactured. 

The stick becomes a natural extension of the player, who skillfully maneuvers it to either gently coax the plastic ball in a dribble, or send it scooting as a 100km/h towards the goal.  Length and weight vary and can be chosen to suite each player’s needs.  The weight of a hockey stick ranges between about 500gm and 750gm.

Composite materials may have some advantages over wood in strength and flexibility of design. Wood is also water absorbent and should be kept dry.  However, water can be attracted from both the field and the players, which is why the grip is importantly made of water-proof materials, such as suede, secured with plastic tape.

A stick is always a potential weapon. In a fast-moving game like hockey, sticks can get in the way of players, either to trip or injure.  A referee is always on the look out for rough play as competitive teams strive for their trophies and medals.

The trophies at Prestige Awards are also not all alike. Some are cast from resins, with fine detail and colouring.  Trophy cups could be made from metals, such a nickel, silver or pewter.  Certain designs also lend themselves to aluminium, a nice, slick option, representing the speed of play.  Shields are traditionally made of wood with brass or silver plaques that display winners' names.  Trophies in the form of mini-statuettes of male and female players are available in plastic, coated in gleaming gold and are ideal as memorabilia for each player in the team.

Trophies help add spirit to any game and can all be suitably customised for the occasion.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award

Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy

Aluminium cut-out trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class.  We would love to help you with your unique design, to bring it to life for your event.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425

 

 


The Role of a Ball March 06 2017, 0 Comments

Think of a team sport that does not involve a ball.  Well, there is badmington, which uses half a 'ball' and some feathers.  Then there is ice hockey which uses a puck.  But the ball is a prominent part of many team sports, as well as the individualistic games, like golf.  The one notable difference between these games is the variety of balls that are used (and abused - think squash!) during the game.

A ball is usually round, except when it's not.  Then it is usually more torpedo-shaped (what shape is that?) as in Rugby and American Footfall. 

Let's look at a field hockey ball.  This spherical object is dribbled and hit from stick to stick during a game.  It will hopefully find it's way to the back of a the goals on occasions, just to make the game a little more exciting (as if it's not exciting enough).

The hockey ball starts out life as a piece of cork, or as just a piece of platic.  The rest of the ball is made from hard plastic and is usually white.  Some balls are made in other bright colours, which is all OK as long as it is in contrast to the field.  (That would exclude green balls for obvious reasons)

The balls have a circumference of about 230mm and weigh around 160gm.  When this round object is travelling at full speed (even half-speed) can you out-run it?  Can you even run after it and catch it?  Well, not likely if it is drag-flicked at top league, international player's speed of about 120 km/h.  In fact, you had better have a stick in your hand, be clad from top to toe like a goalie, or duck or jump as fast as you can.  The hockey ball becomes a formidable weapon that is best avoided, if you can't play it.  And remember, Astro Turf has made higher speeds possible. 

Like other ball sports, the ball is integral to the game, as are the goals.  Remove the ball, or the goals and all you will have is a jumble of players just swinging sticks around, looking for something to do.  So, I'm sure you would agree that the ball is a critical element in field hockey... and perhaps deserves a little more respect than just being smacked around.  On the other hand, why not.  A good smack never hurt a hockey ball.

Now, for those who get past the formidably kitted-out goalie (often enough), they will have the right to the trophy.  Raising  a trophy is the third, important element (in addition to the ball and the goals) without which, hockey would be less exciting all round.  But remember, it is not the amount of goals that your teams scores.  It is the amount of goals they score PLUS one over the opponent.  One more wins the medals and the trophies.

At Prestige Awards, we carry a range of trophies that help add spirit to any hockey game, and maybe a little bit extra speed!   Trophies in the shape of cups, challises or plates and shields for the club; mini-trophies for each player are ready in male and female statuettes. See: http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award  Medal - gold, silver & bronze - also available with hockey motif, just waiting to be engraved with your name or team's logo.

A special trophy made from resin and hard wood may be an option for a floating trophy. The trophy is molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast in resin.  The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy

But, if you can't find anything that you really would like for your team, talk to us.  We also design trophies and all sorts of other awards.  Be a little unique.

Enjoy your game of hockey!


Synthetic Turf for Speed and Trophies March 03 2017, 0 Comments

For some, winter in South Africa is a complete non-event. Consider the ice-hockey players from Calgary who plays on a frozen lakes. They rush by in minus 25 degrees, sometimes colder.  For any sportsman from Canada, our winters are sunny and pleasant. But for us, what could be better than taking some time to watch a game of hockey in the winter sun. Our weather lends itself to picnicking, relaxing and cheering for the trophy winners through most of the year in Gauteng (central province).

If indoor is what you prefer, that is available too. The game is played on a synthetic turf, which replaces grass. However, not all outdoor fields are grassed.  Turf has gained in popularity for outdoors as well.

As early as the 60s, the first synthetic turf was developed as a replacement for grass. This was useful as indoor sports were growing in popularity. The first brand was named Astro Turf and has become the generic name for most synthetic turfs, of which there many.

The advantages of synthetic turf may seem obvious. It is always green, nice and even and never needs irrigation or cutting. However, there are disadvantages. Synthetic turf does have a life-span, which means it needs to be replaced as high cost and periodically needs cleaning with toxic chemicals.

Astro-Turf was first installed at a prep-school in Rhode Island. The turf became better known in the public arena when installed in the Astro Dome in Houston Texas.

Synthetic surfaces have changed the sport of field hockey significantly since being introduced in the seventies.  It has increased the speed of the game considerably and changed the shape of hockey sticks to allow for different techniques, such as reverse stick trapping and hitting.

Players on synthetic turf generally need to be conditioned differently, being a faster game with slightly different rules. But, it is great to watch!

At Prestige Awards, we carry a range of trophies that help add spirit to any hockey game.   Trophies in the shape of cups, challises or plates and shields for the club. Mini-trophies for each player are ready in male and female statuettes. See: http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award  Medal - gold, silver & bronze - also available with hockey motif.

A special trophy made from resin and hard wood may be an option for a floating trophy. The trophy is molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast in resin.  The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy

Enjoy your game of hockey!


OSCAR - A Trophy of Excellence and Merit February 27 2017, 0 Comments

It’s Oscar time again! The 89th time round, to be precise.  And no less glitsy than the 88th.  It red carpet time and time for actors and actresses to be recognised and awarded for their talent.  The trophy: and Oscar Statuette.

This statuette is the most recognised trophy in the world.

The aims of the academy were set out in 1929. “How best to honour outstanding movie-making achievements and thereby encourage excellence in all facets of motion picture production.”  It was a call to greatness for this industry and this golden award continues to call today.

The statuette is of a knight with a sword, standing on a reel of film. Originally a flat design by MGM art director Cedric Gibbons, then turned into a three dimensional trophy that we have to day.

Prestige Awards has been operating in the awards and recognition business since 1983. Many trophies and awards are available for your recognition evenings, including replicas of the Oscar.  See:  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/achievement-oscar-award

You could have your trophy, your medals or signage designed by Prestige Awards to your specifications. Custom made trophies are gaining popularity as schools, companies and clubs who need to differentiate themselves from other institutions. Excellence is the name of the game and we aim to help you to give recognition to your most excellent employees, school learners and club members.

The Oscar is made of solid bronze, coated in 24 karat gold. If you really want your trophy coated in gold, it is possible.  More favoured are materials that represent gold, silver or bronze.  Trophies are also made from aluminium, acrylics and resins, which can be enhanced with a number of different finishes.  A trophy for every occasion, all in the name of excellence.


Trophies for Djokovic - Commitment and Hard Work Pays Off February 22 2017, 0 Comments

How often does a starry-eyed child sit at the sidelines of a champion playing a great game of tennis and dream of being a champion one day? It has been said before that if you don’t have a dream, how can you make a dream come true?  So, I suppose dreaming about trohpy’s, medals and badges of honour are a good start.

In the tennis world, currently we have the Big Four – Djokovic, Murray, Nadal and Federer.  No one has won more men’s singles grand slam tournaments than Federer’s seventeen and amongst is awards you will find four Indian Wells trophies.

Nadal claimed the French open nine times, a record so far unbeaten.  Djokovic captured the Australian Open for the fifth time in February, matching Federer’s Open Era haul.  And Murray?  No more need be said.  He's a champion and his mantelpiece is cluttered with all sorts of medals and trophies. 

Each of these men were little dreamers once and they dreamed big.  But what were the realities that they faced in order to reach such heights and raise so many trophies?    

I suppose one could say that Djokovic did not just dream.   "Talent, hard work, commitment to the sport and having Federer, Nadal and Murray around," was his answer when asked by a CNN reported recently.  Earning trophies all starts with the individual.  “You have to be able to put in the hours of practice and make many sacrifices,” said Djokovic. 

Clearly, the promise competing in the final, of having a record marked against your name and magnificent trophy or golden medal is part of the incentive.  Without trohphies and awards, perhaps tennis would have remained a family game for the back garden.

What is interesting is that Djokovic attributes his success partly to having excellent competition along the way.  All said and done, he emphasized that hard work is what did it in the end.

Any worthwhile trophy will attract talent. The winner will raise his award and think back on months of thankless training, interrupted social life and dogged commitment to the sport, all for the sake of a win.  And in the case of Novak Djokovic, what a winner!

Super trophies for winners are found here:  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/collections/types?q=Trophies%20-%20Premium

 Leave nothing to chance.  Dream, practice, play hard, commit, learn from your rivals and WIN, with Prestige Awards at your side.  http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/