What Does Varsity Mean?
Varsity is a term for the main team that represents a school, college or university in a sport. In the United States and Canada, a varsity team is the top level of competition at a school, composed of the strongest players, and it competes against teams from other schools. The word comes from an old shortening of university.
Levels of play
- Varsity: the main team, whose members are often called varsity athletes and may earn a varsity letter, a badge or award for participation.
- Junior varsity (JV): a second team for younger or less experienced players, which prepares athletes to move up.
- Freshman or novice teams: for first-year students in some schools.
- Club sports: teams run by students, with less formal coaching and travel.
- Intramurals: informal competitions among students within the same college.
In college sports
At US colleges, varsity teams belong to athletic associations that set the rules, such as the NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA. Divisions determine scholarship rules and levels of competition. Varsity athletes commit to training, travel and competition schedules, and must meet academic eligibility requirements. Some receive athletic scholarships, which vary by division and sport.
Varsity in the UK
In the UK and Australia, "Varsity" often refers to a famous annual competition between two universities, such as the Oxford and Cambridge Varsity Match in rugby and other sports. Students there more commonly play for university or college teams, and the word "varsity" is not used for the main team in the same way.
Joining
- High school: you usually try out, and coaches select the team.
- College: recruitment may begin before admission, and walk-on tryouts exist in some sports.
- Balance: consider time demands, injuries and academic workload.
Why it matters
Varsity athletics shapes campus culture, school spirit and for some students, access to higher education. Athletes should know their rights, eligibility rules and support services, including academic advising, health care and counseling.
Other uses
"Varsity" is also used for clothing such as varsity jackets, which are awarded to team members and have become a fashion style.
Related terms
See NCAA, extracurricular activities, quad, honor code and title IX.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between varsity and junior varsity?
Varsity is the main team, with the most experienced athletes. Junior varsity is a second team for developing players or those who did not make varsity.
Are varsity athletes paid?
At many colleges, athletic scholarships are available in some divisions, and rules on payment and name, image and likeness have been changing. Check current rules for your level.
What are club sports?
Student-organized teams that compete but are not part of the official athletic department, with lower time commitments and often no tryouts.