Let's put it this way...JV players don't get letters. If everyone got letters, then I would say it compares to the Participation award...but the only way to get a Letter is to earn that spot on the varsity team. It's not necessarily about winning, but working hard and proving that you are good enough for varsity. However, I will say that this probably doesn't apply to all schools because I am sure that at some schools, talent is spread thin and/or politics overrule (which really sucks IMO).
Edited to add...for us, the Varsity has to earn starting in at least 5 district games (I think?).
Edited to add...for us, the Varsity has to earn starting in at least 5 district games (I think?).