The first half of the season is over, the Christmas party is coming up, and someone in the parents' group asks: what shall we get the team? Or the coach? Here are twelve ideas that really go down well, from budget-friendly to shared experiences.
First decide: who is giving to whom?
Is the coach giving the team a gift, the team giving the coach one, or the parents giving everyone one? Decide that first, along with a budget per person and someone to organise it. It saves long discussions in the group chat.
12 ideas
1. One team book for everyone
Everyone gets their own double-page spread with a photo and answers, plus a team photo and team awards. It stays on the shelf long after the team has gone separate ways.
2. The framed team photo
A classic that makes an impact, especially with everyone's signatures on the mount.
3. A shirt signed by everyone
Ideal as a gift from the team to the coach.
4. A season review video
A few parents collect phone clips, one does the editing. Premiere at the Christmas party.
5. Team awards at the Christmas party
Joker, Fair Play, Calm Head: small certificates, big smiles. Costs next to nothing.
6. A shared experience
Bowling, laser tag, ice skating or a trip to the stadium. Time together is often the best gift.
7. Personalised water bottles
With name and shirt number. Practical, and ready to use at the next training session.
8. A team calendar for the new year
Twelve months, twelve team photos. Hangs in every family's kitchen.
9. Named drawstring bags or boot bags
Good value in bulk and especially popular with younger players.
10. Bake Christmas biscuits as a team
A highlight for the little ones and a relaxed afternoon for the parents.
11. A team fundraiser
The team raises money together for a good cause. A gift that shows what you stand for.
12. An end-of-year team photo in kit
Easy to organise, and priceless in a few years' time.
Timing: start early
Anything printed or personalised needs lead time. With a Flashbook, the books arrive 5 to 7 working days after the last answers are in. So allow time for the whole team to fill in the questionnaire first, and start about three weeks before the party.
Budget: how much does a team book cost?
A Flashbook costs €24.90 per book, €22.90 when 3 or more teams from one club order together and €19.90 from 5 teams, each including printing and shipping. If you like, everyone pays for their own book, so nobody has to pay upfront for others.