If you have a sports fan or young athlete in the house, sometimes gift buying for the Christmas season can be an arduous task. It seems all they want to do is shoot hoops or kick imaginary goals in the back yard, but there are only so many times you can give them a soccer ball or baseball glove before they say, "another one?"

Finding the perfect sports gift for your perfect sport doesn't have to be cumbersome. Here are five gifts that are sure to please. Why let Santa keep them a secret when you've got shopping to do now?

Louisville Slugger - The name is synonymous with baseball, and with good reason. The grand ol? game uses only wood bats in the professional ranks, and Louisville Slugger bats are considered the world's finest by the majority of hardball enthusiasts. Sure, you could buy a wooden - or even metal - Louisville Slugger from the nearby sporting goods store, but how much thought does that require? Show the little (or big) slugger in your life how much you care by giving them a personalized Louisville Slugger bat. The company's bat factory in Louisville, Kentucky, engraves names on bats of various sizes and colors at reasonable prices - and ships anywhere in the United States. Look them up on the Web or call them at (877) 7-SLUGGER. If you have a baseball fanatic in the house, you won't be sorry. Hint: adults appreciate them as much, if not more, than the kiddies.

Autographed Memorabilia - Who is your loved one's favorite athlete? Whether it be a Hall of Famer like Dan Marino or a current star like Derek Jeter, chances are you can find autographed memorabilia bearing their signature. From signed baseballs to autographed jerseys or helmets, the sports memorabilia trade is big business. These items don't come cheaply, but they typically appreciate in value and are definitely appreciated by their recipient.

Sports Movies - Any sports fan has their favorite sports related movie. From The Natural to Hoosiers, these films evoke emotion and are watched over and over again by winter-bound children and relaxing adults alike. A perfect stocking stuffer.

Game Tickets - Does your young athlete (or aging armchair quarterback) enjoy attending live sporting events? Of course they do! Even non-hardcore sports fans love a day at the park. Whether you're setting them up to see their favorite NFL or NBA team, or purchasing tickets to an NCAA basketball game or NASCAR event, you can't go wrong by putting them in front of the action. They'll be able to smell the popcorn the moment they open the gift, and their gratitude will be more than evident.

Sports Lessons - Is your spouse an avid golfer? Your daughter an aspiring tennis player? One characteristic serious athletes of all age and skill levels share is the desire to improve their play. Even experienced, talented athletes can benefit from a return to the fundamentals, and young athletes can never be too well-schooled in the basics that build the foundation for athletic success. Sign your loved one up for lessons with a local club or training facility. It's a rare gift that keeps on giving.