I think what he was trying to imply is that a hardware from a third party seller or distributor is not advisable. There have been recent issues of fake hardware wallets in circulation from third-party partners so it was advised that people acquire the hardware wallets directly from the original distributors.
Here is one of the recent so many circulating stories “Startling” discovery of Trezor’s fake wallets massive sale: precedents, victims and security tips

I would advise you if it were possible, in order to win back trust, use crypto which is equivalent in pcrice as the prize,  Either BTC, ETH or USDT put it in escrow and then run the competition. I think it would be better.