What Are the Differences Between JV and Varsity?

By Jason Bolton May 25, 2023 15:50

Photo by coachfore.org

If you are in high school, chances are likely that you know what a JV and Varsity sports team is. For one, even though they are essentially the same sport and you still go there to see your school play (usually), Division 1 is very different from D2. This article lists the differences, and what to expect if you make either team.

What is JV?

JV- Junior Varsity – If you are new to the sport, at least fresh in high school, and haven't played yet (or not much), JV is still an option for a year or two before getting thrown into Captain Falcon with knees flying. JV teams are a stepping stone to Varsity and provide players with the opportunity to gain experience at less-experienced levels.

What is Varsity?

In high school sports, Varsity is the High Upper tier level of competition. Varsity teams are all-star varsity- any place you will see the most talented and dedicated players in a sport. Varsity teams represent an elite level at a high school, demonstrating the best athletes and schools playing against equivalent competitive programs in their region. Students not on Varsity have it easier

Skill Level

The biggest difference between JV and Varsity teams is player talent. A player is considered to be a Varsity if they are the most skilled and experienced in their program. After all, they have been playing the game for years and it is safe to say that both their skills were honed by countless hours of play and practice. The JV-level players, on the other hand, are there to develop their skills and gain experience. While they may have experience playing the sport, they are going to be rookies who still need to develop their skills as players.

Competition Level

One of the significant differences between JV and Varsity teams is competition. Varsity Teams Varsity teams engage in the highest level of competition in high school sports. They compete against other top-level teams ie in their league or region play to be champions, and win titles. With JV teams, on the other hand, they compete in a weaker competition. These teams usually compete against other JV or freshman squads with the emphasis being on development and experience.

Playing Time

Differences In Playing Time Varsity vs JV Varsity players are typically the best and most experienced guys in the program, and so they play more of each game. For a team to succeed you need your star players leading the way and making an impact on the game. Instead, JV players are presented with more playing time as coaches want to cultivate their talent and give them experience.

Expectations

The upperclassmen — varsity basketball players, as they’re known in his eyes and the lens of society at large — set rules for themselves because their goals are different from those of junior varsity (JV) athletes. They are five of UT's seven leading tacklers, behind only senior safety Brandon Jones and junior nickelback Jalen Green. Varsity players are supposed to be committed and devoted to the game; they should work harder on their skills. The JV players, well they are still learning and maturing in this game. They are not looked to with the same demands and expectations as Varsity athletes, but by no means do coaches allow JV team members a free pass off from working hard at their craft.

Coaching

One of the biggest differences between JV and Varsity teams is coaching. Varsity Coaches (Typically more experience, higher level of knowledge, and mastery in the sport.) They control the on-field strategy and in-game management. Secondly, JV coaches are generally less advanced and more development-based. Their primary concern is development over winning, working with players to grow their game and build experience.

Team Culture

The team culture is another that sets JV and Varsity teams apart. Varsity-level competitive teams, however, tend to be all about winning. Varsity players for school teams always have hopes of winning championships and titles. JV teams, meanwhile, tend to be more concerned with player development and keeping the pipeline full so they can develop players. When compared to a varsity team, the culture of the team on JV team is more laid back and less concerned about winning.

Conclusion

In summary, JV and Varsity teams differ substantially in skill level, competition strength, playtime experience expectation levels of coaching guidance team atmosphere Varsity teams are the most competitive level in high school sports and provide a good place for players to show their skills, but some of the JV teams even hardest than varsity. Whether you are trying out for JV or Varsity, make sure to work hard and stay committed, but do not forget that the sport is about having fun too.