Start with the Event
The right medal for a youth soccer tournament looks and costs different from the right medal for a provincial championship. Before you consider materials or finishes, define your event: what level of competition is this? How many medals do you need? What's your per-medal budget? How much time do you have?
These four variables shape every subsequent decision. A large youth league with a modest budget might prioritize affordability and volume; a national championship might invest more per medal for a more substantial, prestigious piece.
Material and Size
Most custom sports medals are made from zinc alloy — a versatile, durable alloy that takes detail well and is available in every finish. Brass is heavier and feels more premium, making it a good choice for top-placement medals (gold, silver, bronze) while zinc alloy serves participation and lower-tier awards.
Standard sports medal diameters run from 50mm to 80mm. A 50mm medal is lightweight and appropriate for youth events or large-quantity runs. A 70–80mm medal is more commanding and appropriate for a championship or regional competition.
Finish: Gold, Silver, Bronze — and Beyond
The classic three-tier finish (gold, silver, bronze) is standard for good reason — everyone understands the hierarchy immediately. But custom medals don't have to stop there. Consider: antique gold for 1st place, antique silver for 2nd, antique copper for 3rd, and a participation medal in a complementary finish.
Enamel colour fills let you incorporate team colours, event logos, or sport-specific imagery (a hockey stick, a soccer ball, a swimmer's silhouette) in vibrant, durable colour. This is particularly effective for events with strong brand identity.
Neck Ribbons
A medal is only complete with its ribbon. Custom ribbon colours in your event's colour scheme add a professional, cohesive look. Ribbons are available in single colours, striped, or custom woven patterns. Standard ribbon width is 15–25mm.
Consider ordering ribbons to match your top-placement medals differently from participation medals — a premium grosgrain ribbon for champions, a standard ribbon for participants, for example.
Quantity and Timing
Order 10–15% more medals than you think you need. Last-minute additions to a tournament bracket, ties requiring extra medals, and general attrition all happen. Having extras eliminates stress.
Standard production is 14–18 business days from proof approval. For tournament season, order at least 6 weeks before your event. Rush options are available — contact Canada Coin directly if you have a tight deadline.
What to Avoid
The most common mistake in medal ordering is under-specifying the design. Vague design instructions lead to generic-looking medals that could belong to any event. Provide your event's logo, your colour scheme, and the sport's imagery explicitly.
The second most common mistake is ordering too late. Four weeks feels like plenty of time until it isn't. Six to eight weeks gives you comfortable buffer for design revisions, proof approvals, and unexpected production delays.
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