What Is the Super Bowl Trophy Called
The trophy awarded to the winning team of the Super Bowl is named the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Each year, this prize is presented to the champion following the game. The winning team also receives rings, while individual recognition includes the Super Bowl MVP award, named in honor of the trophy’s legacy. Though commonly called the Lombardi, its official title references the Hall of Fame coach whose winning tradition shaped the event from its earliest seasons.
Origin and Naming
Why the Vince Lombardi Trophy?
In 1970, the recently merged league chose to name the championship trophy after legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi. He led the Packers to victories in the first two Super Bowls, establishing a standard of excellence. The formal designation honors his impact on the merger and the game itself. Before the name was finalized, the trophy was often discussed in terms of its weight, height, and place in pro football tradition.
Historical Context and Timeline
Originally, the league presented different trophies as symbols of championship status. With the creation of the Super Bowl, a single, lasting emblem became necessary. The timing aligned with the merger, ensuring continuity and prestige. Teams and cities soon embraced the new name, recognizing Lombardi’s role in professional football’s growth.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Official Name | Vince Lombardi Trophy | League Specifications |
| First Awarded | 1967 (Super Bowl I) | Historical Records |
| Winner | Winning Team of the Super Bowl | NFL Protocol |
| Associated Individual Award | Super Bowl MVP | NFL Awards Policy |
| Physical Description | Silver-plated sterling silver, on a wood base with a globe and football figure | Official Vendor Specifications |
Design and Specifications
The Vince Lombardi Trophy stands as a sterling silver representation of achievement. Its design features a football poised on a globe, resting atop a wooden base. The trophy is silver-plated and crafted to reflect the league’s prestige. It is significantly taller and heavier than many other sports trophies, meant to command attention during ceremonies. The structure balances durability with aesthetics, so it can tour nationally each season.
Individual Recognition: The Super Bowl MVP
Alongside the team trophy, the Super Bowl MVP award honors the game’s most impactful player. This accolade is separate from the Vince Lombardi Trophy, though both celebrate excellence. Winners receive a distinctive ring and personal recognition during the presentation. Over the years, the MVP has spotlighted quarterbacks, defensive stars, and special teams contributors.
Team Awards and Ceremony Traditions
Following the conclusion of the game, the Vince Lombardi Trophy is displayed during a formal ceremony. Players, coaches, and executives lift the trophy together, symbolizing shared accomplishment. Each member of the winning roster receives a ring, reinforcing the collective achievement. The event underscores the trophy’s role as the pinnacle of professional football success.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The name Vince Lombardi has become synonymous with winning. Fans and media often refer to the trophy by this shorthand, cementing its place in sports dialogue. Its history reflects the evolution of the Super Bowl into a premier global event. The trophy’s endurance mirrors the lasting influence of the coach it commemorates.
Quick Reference
- The official team trophy is the Vince Lombardi Trophy
- First awarded in Super Bowl I, 1967
- Made of silver-plated sterling silver on a wooden base
- Associated individual award: Super Bowl MVP
- Winning teams also receive rings for each player and staff member