Varsity bars are awards given to high school or college athletes who earn a varsity letter in subsequent years after receiving their initial letter.
When an athlete earns a varsity letter for the first time in a specific sport, they are typically awarded a certificate, the varsity letter itself (often a large embroidered letter), and a pin representing that sport.
According to the provided reference, for each year after the first year they earn a varsity letter in that sport, the athlete receives a certificate and a bar.
Essentially, these bars act as indicators of multiple years of varsity lettering in the same sport. They are often affixed to the initial varsity letter jacket or sweater below the main letter, with each bar signifying an additional year the athlete lettered.
What a Varsity Bar Represents
- Recognition: Acknowledges continued high performance and commitment to a sport at the varsity level.
- Longevity: Shows the number of years an athlete has earned varsity status in a specific program.
- Achievement: Signifies repeated success and dedication beyond the initial lettering.
Award System Breakdown
Here's a simple breakdown based on the reference:
| Year of Lettering | Awarded Items |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | Certificate, Varsity Letter, Sport Pin |
| 2nd Year | Certificate, Bar |
| 3rd Year | Certificate, Bar |
| 4th Year | Certificate, Bar |
Each bar represents one additional year of earning a varsity letter in that sport, following the year the initial letter was awarded.
