Varsity and Letterman Jackets
Varsity and Letterman Jackets
What are they?
"Letterman" jackets trace their history back to Harvard in 1865, when the baseball team began wearing sweaters with a big block H on them. The football team followed suit 10 years later. According to historydaily.org, "This was to be a way to acknowledge the hard work and athletic ability of key players on the team. By making the Letterman an exclusive club, other players worked hard to join."
While the traditions vary, by the end of the 20th century, Varsity Jackets are worn to signify making and participating in a varsity sport - commonly referred to as "lettering." Your jacket shows school pride and personal achievement!
Where do I get patches?
These days, you can design really cool custom patches
All varsity athletes may have a chenille varsity block B free of cost (either at your banquet or just come to J207)
The basics can be found in the AD office (J207) for low prices
Where do I get the Jacket?
Locally, we recommend Mary and Joe's on San Pablo near the base of Solano Avenue in Albany, CA (911 San Pablo Ave, Albany, CA 94706, (510) 525-1597)
There are lots of online options that range in price and quality:
NEFF: https://www.neffjacketshop.com/BrowseCatalogs.asp?VPath=1140|1145|1683
JOSTENS: https://www.jostens.com/apparel/jackets-and-patches/letter-jackets
VARSITY BASE: https://varsitybase.com/
AUGUSTA SPORTSWEAR: https://www.augustasportswear.com/varsity-jacket
UNITED SPORTS APPAREL: https://www.unitedsportapparel.com/design-your-jacket
Email athleticdirector@berkeley.net to find a good time to come by the office and get your patches (cash or check)