The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of American football, and winning the championship is the ultimate goal for every National Football League (NFL) team. The trophy awarded to the victorious team is one of the most recognizable symbols in sports.
But what exactly is the name of the Super Bowl trophy, and what is its history?
The Vince Lombardi Trophy
The official name of the trophy awarded to the Super Bowl champions is the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Named after the legendary coach Vince Lombardi, who led the Green Bay Packers to victory in the first two Super Bowls, this trophy represents excellence, perseverance, and triumph in professional football.
The trophy is awarded annually by the NFL and is presented on the field immediately following the conclusion of the Super Bowl game. It symbolizes not only the success of the winning team but also the legacy of Vince Lombardi himself.
“Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.” – Vince Lombardi
History of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
The Vince Lombardi Trophy was first introduced in 1967, coinciding with the very first Super Bowl game, which was then called the AFL-NFL World Championship Game. The trophy was originally named the “World Championship Trophy.” It was only after Vince Lombardi’s death in 1970 that the NFL officially renamed the trophy in his honor.
Lombardi’s impact on the sport was immense, especially considering his leadership of the Green Bay Packers during the 1960s. His teams won five NFL Championships and the first two Super Bowls (Super Bowl I and II).
Renaming the trophy was a fitting tribute to a man whose name has become synonymous with excellence in football.
Design and Craftsmanship
The Vince Lombardi Trophy is a stunning piece of artistry and craftsmanship. Designed by Tiffany & Co., the trophy is made entirely of sterling silver and stands 22 inches tall.
It weighs approximately 7 pounds and depicts a regulation-size football in a kicking position on a three-sided stand.
The trophy’s sleek and elegant design reflects the prestige and grandeur of the Super Bowl. Every year, Tiffany & Co.
creates a new trophy, with the winning team receiving it permanently to display in their trophy case.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | 22 inches (56 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 7 pounds (3.2 kg) |
| Material | Sterling silver |
| Designer | Tiffany & Co. |
| Design | Football in kicking position on a three-sided stand |
| Annual Production | One trophy made each year for the Super Bowl winner |
The Legacy of Vince Lombardi
Vince Lombardi’s name is more than just a label on a trophy; it is a symbol of leadership, hard work, and determination. Lombardi’s coaching philosophy was rooted in discipline and commitment, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest football coaches in history.
His influence on the NFL extends beyond his championship wins. Many of the coaching strategies and motivational techniques he developed are still used today.
The trophy bearing his name reminds players and fans alike of the standards he set for excellence.
“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.” – Vince Lombardi
Other Names and Nicknames
While Vince Lombardi Trophy is the official name, the trophy is sometimes colloquially referred to as the “Lombardi Trophy”. Fans, players, and commentators often use this shorter name interchangeably.
It is important to note that the trophy is distinct from other trophies in American football, such as the NFL Championship Trophy awarded before the Super Bowl era or college football trophies like the Heisman Trophy.
The Lombardi Trophy is unique in its association with the Super Bowl and the NFL Championship.
Super Bowl Trophy Presentation Ceremony
The presentation of the Vince Lombardi Trophy is a highly anticipated moment during the Super Bowl. After the final whistle blows and the winning team is confirmed, the trophy is brought onto the field, usually by a representative from Tiffany & Co.
or a former NFL legend.
The team captain, coach, or MVP (Most Valuable Player) typically receives the trophy first. This is followed by the entire team celebrating with the trophy, hoisting it high as cameras capture the unforgettable moment.
It is one of the most iconic scenes in sports broadcasting.
Step-by-step Trophy Presentation
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Final Whistle | Game ends confirming the Super Bowl winner. |
| 2. Trophy Arrival | Vince Lombardi Trophy is brought onto the field. |
| 3. Presentation | Trophy handed to the team captain or MVP. |
| 4. Celebration | Team and coaches celebrate, hoisting the trophy. |
| 5. Post-game Traditions | Interviews, photographs, and trophy display. |
Famous Moments Involving the Trophy
Over the decades, the Vince Lombardi Trophy has been part of countless memorable moments. From the Green Bay Packers’ first victories to the New England Patriots’ dynasty, the trophy has been a witness to football history.
One particularly famous moment was when the New England Patriots won Super Bowl LI after an incredible comeback against the Atlanta Falcons. The trophy was presented amid a euphoric celebration, symbolizing resilience and determination — values Lombardi championed.
Another iconic scene took place during the Pittsburgh Steelers’ multiple Super Bowl wins in the 1970s, where the trophy became a symbol of a dominant era in NFL history.
How the Trophy is Made
The process of creating the Vince Lombardi Trophy is meticulous and involves master silversmiths from Tiffany & Co. The creation takes approximately four to five weeks, beginning with careful design and casting, followed by polishing and engraving.
Each trophy is crafted individually, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail. The final piece gleams with a mirror-like finish, reflecting the prestige of the award and the magnitude of the achievement.
Crafting Process Overview
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Initial sketches and 3D models are created. |
| Casting | Sterling silver is poured into molds shaped like the trophy. |
| Polishing | Surface is polished to a high shine. |
| Assembly | Football and base are assembled and secured. |
| Engraving | Super Bowl number and winning team name are engraved. |
Engraving and Customization
Each Vince Lombardi Trophy is engraved with the Roman numeral of the Super Bowl and the name of the winning team. This ensures each trophy is unique to its championship year and team.
The engraving is done shortly after the conclusion of the Super Bowl, usually before the trophy is presented on the field. This personalization adds to the trophy’s value and historical significance.
Where Can You See the Vince Lombardi Trophy?
The winning team keeps the trophy as a permanent symbol of their victory. Many teams display it prominently in their stadiums, team headquarters, or museums.
In addition to the annual trophy awarded to the Super Bowl champions, the NFL sometimes displays past trophies at events, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and special exhibitions. This allows fans and historians to appreciate the legacy of the trophy and the sport.
Notable Teams with Multiple Vince Lombardi Trophies
Several NFL teams have won the Vince Lombardi Trophy multiple times, solidifying their place in football history. The Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots hold the record for the most Super Bowl wins, each with six trophies.
| Team | Number of Trophies | Notable Eras |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 6 | 1970s dominance |
| New England Patriots | 6 | 2000s-2010s dynasty |
| San Francisco 49ers | 5 | 1980s-1990s era |
| Dallas Cowboys | 5 | 1970s-1990s success |
| Green Bay Packers | 4 | 1960s and recent victories |
Summary
The Super Bowl trophy is officially known as the Vince Lombardi Trophy, named after the legendary coach who helped shape the NFL’s history. Crafted by Tiffany & Co., it is a sterling silver masterpiece that symbolizes the highest achievement in professional American football.
From its origins as the World Championship Trophy to its current status as an iconic symbol of success, the Lombardi Trophy embodies the spirit of competition, dedication, and excellence. Every year, it is proudly presented to the Super Bowl champions, becoming a permanent part of NFL lore.
“The Vince Lombardi Trophy is more than just a prize; it is a testament to the hard work, passion, and will to win that defines America’s game.” – NFL Historian
