The iconic letterman varsity jacket is a symbol of school spirit and personal achievement that has stood the test of time. The trend of representing teams with letters started in the 1800s when baseball and football teams at Harvard University began wearing sweaters with the letter H prominently sewn onto the front. Over the years, these sweaters have evolved into the stylish jackets worn today.

Recently, students at Mead High School took part in a special letterman jacket fitting session at their school. This hands-on process ensures their jackets are sized perfectly and reflect their individual style. During the fitting, students could be seen stretching their arms to assess sleeve length, while also ensuring the jackets were appropriately sized on the shoulders so their custom jackets fit comfortably.

What was once a symbol reserved exclusively for athletic achievements, has expanded through the decades. Varsity letters can now be earned for performing arts, robotics, and academics. To earn a letter, students must meet specific criteria, demonstrating excellence, leadership, and dedication in their chosen activity. This may include earning a 3.75 grade point average or higher, achieving a certain level of performance on a varsity team, or competing in music or robotics competitions.

Earning a letter is a rite of passage, representing students’ dedication and hard work. Mead senior Porter Ainsworth, who lettered in football, views the letter jacket as a way to “show off my achievements and school spirit.” Sophomore Addison Blick, who lettered in basketball, is excited to get a letterman jacket because it will be a “good memory to have of my high school experience.”

As each student proudly dons their personalized jacket, they not only showcase their individual achievements but also embody the rich tradition of school spirit and personal accomplishment. The letterman jacket continues to serve as a timeless symbol of excellence and a cherished memento of the high school experience.