I've been doing the hops since my middle son was born, so about 8 years. I've won a few 10.00 gc, but because it ends up costing in the long run, some of them I don't use. I did win 2nd place this summer. I too received about 4 yards of white on white tonal print fabric. I haven't found a use for them yet, maybe labels.
I think the shops are fun and have loved the last 2 sampler quilt patterns. Much, much better than the patterns they used to include when they started!
I have really liked the different things the shops have to offer. Bookmarked a ton for their free patterns. I shop at a few too, but usually not during a hop. Just kinda works out that way.