Do you realize that getting a hard hat is not at all directly related to performance on the football field? Some of our all time most productive (and nfl players) have not achieved these types of awards (iron hokie etc). And countless of our players who did receive the awards weren't good players at all. Sat on the bench in fact. This year's list included.
Point being, excelling at a few weeks of training does not have much to do with whether you excel or suck at football. While we all want to see all key player apply themselves and maximize potential, its a subjective measurement and meant to be a challenge. By definition only a certain percentage will achieve it.

PS: its also a motivational tool