Sports and Academic Program Patch a-and-s-letter.gif (25561 bytes) 

Cub Scout
Academics and Sports Program

(There is a lot of information on this page, only the patches are the only graphics so the page will load faster)

To skip the introduction and information about Belt Loops & Pins and skip to the Requirements CLICK HERE

The Cub Scouts Academics and Sports Program is one method of addressing the third aim of Scouting: the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness. Fitness includes the body (well-tuned and healthy), the mind (able to think and solve problems), and the emotions (self-control, courage, and self-respect). As in most activities in Cub Scouting, this is not meant to be a highly competitive program, instead, the boys are encouraged to DO THEIR BEST.

The Academic and Sports Program is an optional program for all Cub Scouts. It is not part of the normal requirements towards ranks, except where used in obtaining various Webelos activity badges and Wolf Elective 20 (Sports). Its purpose is to assist the Scouts in learning a new skill, or improving one they already posses.

A variety of recognition items are available for the boys (Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, or Webelos Scouts) who participate in the program. (Adults are NOT awarded with belt loops or pins.)

  • Belt loops are awarded to boys who complete the three belt loop requirements in an academic subject or sport. Academic belt loops are gold, and Sports belt loops are silver (except for the Archery and BB-gun Shooting belt loops, which are brass colored)
  • Pins are awarded to boys who choose to continue their involvement in an Academics or Sports area and earn the pin by meeting the appropriate requirements. Pins are worn on the Cub Scout Academic and Sports letter
  • The Academic and Sports letter (pictured above) is available to boys for displaying Academics and Sports pins that Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts earn. The letter, a large Blue and Gold "C", representing Cub Scouts can be worn on a sweater or jacket, or displayed or framed. It does NOT go on the uniform. There are NO specific requirements for earning the letter, as it is designed merely to display the pins.
  • There are also Pocket Certificates, Activity Medals, and Trophies, and the Participation Emblem (pictured above), which can be awarded as the Pack decides.

The Cub Scout Academics and Sports program is a supplemental enrichment program that complements the existing Cub Scout program. The Academics subjects and, Sports activities allow boys to learn new techniques, increase scholarship skills, develop sportsmanship - and have fun. Boys participating in the program will be recognized for enjoying teamwork, developing physical fitness, and discovering and building new talents. The Academics and Sports program encourages a boy to do his best.

Concepts and Guidelines

The Cub Scout Academics and Sports program is based on the following concepts and guidelines

  • The program supplements the existing advancement and recognition program for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts; it does not replace it. The program is one element of Cub Scouting, as are den and pack meetings, day camp, and other activities.
  • All registered Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts have an opportunity to participate in the Academics and Sports program.
  • Participation may take place at home, with the family, or within a den, a pack, or the community.
  • Adult participation by a parent or adult relative, if possible, is strongly recommended for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts and is required for Tiger Cubs.
  • Emphasis is placed on introducing a boy to a sport or academic subject, allowing him to participate in it and encouraging him to do his best. The Academics and Sports program focuses on learning and skill development, not winning.
  • The primary focus of the program is on scholarship and sportsmanship.
  • Each Tiger Cub, Cub Scout, and Webelos Scout will be presented with the appropriate recognition item for completing the requirements, whether he does so as an individual Scout, with his family, with his den or pack, or in his school or community.
  • The Academics portion of the program covers a variety of subjects, including art, chess, citizenship, communicating, computers, geography, heritages, mathematics, music, science, weather, and wildlife conservation.
  • The Sports portion of the program includes summer and winter sports, indoor and outdoor sports, active and less-active sports, and team and individual sports.
  • Cub Scouts who have disabilities may select their own activities and design their own fitness or academic program with the help of a physician, teacher, or parent.

The Purposes of Cub Scouting

The Cub Scout Academics and Sports program relates directly to the nine purposes of Cub Scouting:

  • Positively influencing a boy's character development and encouraging spiritual growth
  • Helping boys develop habits and attitudes of good citizenship
  • Encouraging good sportsmanship and pride in growing strong in mind and body
  • Improving understanding within the family
  • Strengthening the ability to get along with other boys and to respect other people
  • Fostering a sense of personal achievement by helping boys develop new interests and skills
  • Showing how to be helpful and do one's best
  • Providing fun and exciting new things to do
  • Preparing boys to become Boy Scouts

Cub Scout Academics Program

Currently, recognition can be earned for the following 17 academic areas:

Art, Astronomy, Chess, Citizenship, Collecting, Communicating, Computers, Language and Culture, Geography, Geology, Heritages, Map and Compass, Mathematics, Music, Science, Weather, and Wildlife Conservation

The awards for Astronomy, Collecting, Language and Culture, Geology, and Map and Compass, were added in September, 2002.

Most of the Academic belt loops (except Collecting) can be used by Webelos Scouts when working on various Activity Badges.  To be used for Webelos Activity Badges, the belt loops must be earned WHILE a Webelos Scout, even if they had already been earned by the Cub Scout while a Tiger Cub, Wolf, or Bear. The Science belt loop is required for the Scientist Activity Badge, and the Citizenship belt loop is required for the Citizen Activity Badge, which is required for the Webelos Badge..  The others are options for other pins, as follows:

Linkages between Academics Belt Loops and Webelos Activity Badges

This list contains only those Webelos Badges which have requirements that can (or must) be satisfied by earning one or more Academics Belt Loops.

For a list of ALL Webelos Activity Badges, Click Here.
 
Earn the
Academics Belt Loop		 Get credit toward the
Webelos Activity Badge
Art Artist
Astronomy Scientist
Chess Scholar
Citizenship Citizen (required)
Communicating Communicator
Computers Communicator
Geography Traveler
Geology Geologist
Heritages Family Member
Language and Culture Scholar
Map and Compass Traveler
Mathematics Scholar and Engineer
Music Showman
Science Scientist (required)
Weather Scientist
Wildlife Conservation Naturalist

Cub Scout Sports Program

Currently, recognition can be earned for the following 23 sports:

Archery, BB-Gun, Badminton, Baseball. Basketball, Bicycling, Bowling, Fishing, Flag Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Ice Skating, Marbles, Physical Fitness, Roller Skating, Snow Ski and Board Sports, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Ultimate, Volleyball

Before you write us, asking for a new Belt Loop for a different sport, like Karate or Tackle Football, please read our explanation why they are not included in the program.

In September, 2002, the awards for Flag Football were added, Skating (roller and ice) was replaced with separate awards for Ice Skating and Roller Skating, and Skiing was replaced with Snow Ski and Board Sports. In addition, the requirements for Swimming and Bicycling were revised.

The Shooting Sports belt loops and pins (Archery and BB Shooting) can only be earned under BSA range trained supervision. The BB Shooting loop and pin MUST be earned at a BSA facility range.

The belt loops for the Shooting Sports can be used toward Wolf Electives 20c and 20n.  The Swimming belt loop can be used for the Aquanaut Activity Badge, the Physical Fitness belt loop can be used for the Athlete Activity Badge, and a number of Sports Belt loops can be used by Webelos Scouts when working on the Sportsman Activity badge.  In addition to the other requirements for that pin, a Webelos Scout must earn two belt loops in individual Sports (Badminton, Bicycling, Bowling, Fishing, Golf, Gymnastics, Ice Skating, Marbles, Physical Fitness, Roller Skating, Snow Ski and Board Sports, Swimming, Table Tennis, and/or Tennis), and two more in team sports (Baseball, Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer, Softball, Ultimate, and/or Volleyball) to earn that Activity Badge.  To be used for Webelos Activity Badges, the belt loops must be earned WHILE a Webelos Scout, even if they had already been earned by the Cub Scout while a Tiger Cub, Wolf, or Bear.

 

Cub Scout Academics Program

Art

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Make a list of common materials used to create visual art compositions.

  2. Demonstrate how six of the following elements of design are used in a drawing: lines, circles, dots, shapes, colors, patterns, textures, space, balance, or perspective.

  3. Identify the three primary colors and the three secondary colors that can be made by mixing them. Show how this is done using paints or markers. Use the primary and secondary colors to create a painting

Academics Pin

Earn the Art belt loop, and complete six of the following requirements:

  1. Visit an art museum, gallery, or exhibit. Discuss with an adult the art you saw.

  2. Create two self-portraits using two different art techniques, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, or computer illustration.

  3. Demonstrate how to make paper. Make a sample at least 4 inches by 4 inches.

  4. Make a simple silkscreen or stencil. Print a card or T-shirt.

  5. Create a freestanding sculpture or mobile using wood, metal, soap, papier-mâché, or found objects.

  6. Create an object using clay that can be fired, baked in the oven, or hardened in water.

  7. Photograph four subjects in one theme, such as landscapes, people, animals, sports, or buildings.

  8. Make a collage using several different materials.

  9. Use your artistic skills to create a postage stamp, book cover, or music CD cover.

  10. Use a computer illustration or painting program to create a work of art.

  11. Display your artwork in a pack, school, or community art show.

Astronomy

This subject was added in September, 2002.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Set up and demonstrate how to focus a simple telescope or binoculars.
  2. Draw a diagram of our solar system--identify the planets and other objects.
  3. Explain the following terms: planet, star, solar system, galaxy, the Milky Way, black hole, red giant, white dwarf, comet, meteor, moon, asteroid, and universe.

Academics Pin

Earn the Astronomy belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Draw a diagram of a telescope and explain how it works.
  2. Locate and identify five constellations. You may use a telescope.
  3. Using a telescope, find at least one planet and identify it.
  4. Find the North Star. Explain its importance.
  5. Interview an astronomer. Learn about careers that relate to Astronomy. What school subjects will help you get a job in astronomy?
  6. Visit an observatory or a planetarium. Give a report on what you learned to your den.
  7. Make a poster illustrating the different kinds of stars. Include a diagram showing the life cycle of a star.
  8. Learn about some of the early space missions. Tell your den or family about one of them.
  9. Find a current event about a recent happening related to space. Tell your den or family about this event.
  10. Make a chart to show the phases of the moon over a two-month period. Define a blue moon.
  11. Write a report on two famous astronomers.
  12. Locate three major observatories on a map. Explain why these locations are good for astronomy.

Chess

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Identify the chess pieces and set up a chess board for play.
  2. Demonstrate the moves of each chess piece to your den leader or adult partner.
  3. Play a game of chess.

Academics Pin

Earn the Chess belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Demonstrate basic opening principles (such as development of pieces, control center, castle, don't bring queen out too early, don't move same piece twice).
  2. Visit a chess tournament and tell your den about it.
  3. Participate in a pack, school, or community chess tournament.
  4. Solve a pre-specified chess problem (e.g., "White to move and mate in three") given to you by your adult partner.
  5. Play five games of chess.
  6. Play 10 chess games via computer or on the Internet.
  7. Read about a famous chess player.
  8. Describe U.S. Chess Federation ratings for chess players.
  9. Learn to write chess notation and record a game with another Scout.
  10. Present a report about the history of chess to your den or family.

Citizenship

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Develop a list of jobs you can do around the home. Chart your progress for one week.
  2. Make a poster showing things that you can do be a good citizen.
  3. Participate in a family, den, or school service project.

Academics Pin

Earn the Citizenship belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Interview someone who has become a naturalized citizen. Give a report of your interview to your den or family.
  2. Write a letter to your newspaper about an issue that concerns you.
  3. Create a collage about America.
  4. Conduct a home safety or energy audit and inspect your home. Talk with your parent or adult partner about correcting any problems you find.
  5. Visit your local site of government. Interview someone who is involved with the governmental process.
  6. Visit a court room and talk with someone who works there.
  7. Go to the polls with your parents when they vote. Talk to them about their choices.
  8. Take part in a parade with your den or pack.
  9. List ways you can recycle various materials and conserve and protect the environment.
  10. Attend a community event or visit a landmark in your community.

Collecting

This subject was added in September, 2002.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Begin a collection of at least 10 items that all have something in common. Label the items and title your collection.
  2. Display your collection at a pack or den meeting.
  3. Visit a show or museum that displays different collections

Academics Pin

Earn the Collecting belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Give a talk about your collection to someone other than your family. Give a description of your collection, including a short history. Explain how you got started and why you decided to collect what you do.
  2. Show how you preserve and display your collection. Explain any special precautions you must take including handling, cleaning, and storage. Note precautions for dampness, sunlight, or other weather conditions.
  3. Read a book about what you collect.
  4. Start a new collection of at least 20 items. Label the items, and title your collection.
  5. Define numismatics and philately.
  6. Join a club of collectors who share your hobby. This club may be a group of your friends.
  7. Find out if there is a career that involves what you collect. Find out what kind of subjects you need to study to prepare for such a career.
  8. If you collect coins or stamps, make a list of different countries in your collection. Explain how to identify each country's issues. Make a list of "clues" that help you identify the origin.
  9. With an adult partner, visit an online auction and look for items you collect. What does it tell you about rarity and value of the things you collect?
  10. Use a computer to catalog, organize, and keep track of your collection.
  11. Help a friend get started on a collection of his or her own.

Communicating

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Tell a story or relate an incident to a group of people, such as your family, den, or members of your class.
  2. Write a letter to a friend or relative.
  3. Make a poster about something that interests you. Explain the poster to your den.

Academics Pin

Earn the Communicating belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Write an original poem or story.
  2. Keep a journal of daily activities for at least seven days.
  3. Listen to a news story on television or the radio. Discuss the information with an adult.
  4. Go to the library. Use the card catalog or computer reference system to find a book, and then check it out.
  5. Read a book that has been approved by your parent or teacher. Discuss the book with an adult.
  6. With a friend, develop a skit. Perform it at a Scout meeting, family meeting, or school event.
  7. Learn the alphabet in sign language. Learn how to sign 10 words.
  8. With an adult, use the Internet to search for information on a topic of interest to you.
  9. Watch three television commercials and discuss the information in them with your parent or den leader.
  10. Read the directions for a new game. Explain to a family member or friend how to play it.
  11. Learn about "reading" materials for people who have poor vision or who are blind.
  12. While traveling, make a list of road signs, animals, or license plates that you see.

Computers

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain these parts of a personal computer: central processing unit (CPU), monitor, keyboard, mouse, modem, and printer.
  2. Demonstrate how to start up and shut down a personal computer properly.
  3. Use your computer to prepare and print a document.

Academics Pin

Earn the Computers belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Use a computer to prepare a report on a subject of interest to you. Share it with your den.
  2. Make a list of 10 devices that can be found in the home that use a computer chip to function.
  3. Use a computer to maintain a balance sheet of your earnings or allowance for four weeks.
  4. Use a spreadsheet program to organize some information.
  5. Use an illustration, drawing, or painting program to create a picture.
  6. Use a computer to prepare a thank-you letter to someone.
  7. Log on to the Internet. Visit the Boy Scouts of America homepage (http://www.scouting.org).
  8. Discuss personal safety rules you should pay attention to while using the Internet.
  9. Practice a new computer game for two weeks. Demonstrate an improvement in your scores.
  10. Correspond with a friend via e-mail. Have at least five e-mail replies from your friend.
  11. Visit a local business or government agency that uses a mainframe computer to handle its business. Explain how computers save the company time and money in carrying out its work.

Language and Culture

This subject was added in September, 2002.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Talk with someone who grew up in a different country than you did. Find out what it was like and how it is different from your experience.
  2. Learn 10 words that are in a different language than your own.
  3. Play two games that originated in another country or culture.

Academics Pin

Earn the Language and Culture belt loop, and complete seven of the following requirements:

  1. Earn the BSA Interpreter Strip.
  2. Write the numbers 1-10 in Chinese or another number system other than the one we normally use (we use the Arabic system).
  3. Visit an embassy, consulate, or charge d'affairs for another country.
  4. Make a display of stamps or postcards of another country. Explain the importance or symbolism of the things depicted to that country's culture.
  5. Learn 30 words in a language other than your own.
  6. Learn a song in another country's language.
  7. Say five words in American Sign Language. One of these words could be your first name.
  8. Visit a restaurant that specializes in recipes from another country.
  9. Watch a TV show or movie in a foreign language. Tell how easy or difficult it was to understand what was happening.
  10. Interview an interpreter. Find out what his or her job is like.
  11. Make a list of 30 things around your home that were made in another country.
  12. Read a book or story about an immigrant to the United States.

If the Scout's native language is not English, then English may be used to satisfy the appropriate requirements.

Geography

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Draw a map of your neighborhood. Show natural and manmade features. Include a key or legend of map symbols.
  2. Learn about the physical geography of your community. Identify the major landforms within 100 miles. Discuss with an adult what you learned.
  3. Use a world globe or map to locate the continents, the oceans, the equator, and the northern and southern hemispheres. Learn how longitude and latitude lines are used to locate a site.

Academics Pin

Earn the Geography belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Make a three-dimensional model of an imaginary place. Include five different landforms, such as mountains, valleys, lakes, deltas, rivers, buttes, plateaus, basins, and plains.
  2. List 10 cities around the world. Calculate the time it is in each city when it is noon in your town.
  3. Find the company's location on the wrapper or label of 10 products used in your home, such as food, clothing, toys, and appliances. Use a world map or atlas to find each location.
  4. On a map, trace the routes of some famous explorers. Show the map to your den or family.
  5. On a United States or world map, mark where your family members and ancestors were born.
  6. Keep a map record of the travels of your favorite professional sports team for one month.
  7. Read a book (fiction or nonfiction) in which geography plays an important part.
  8. Take part in a geography bee or fair in your pack, school, or community.
  9. Choose a country in the world and make a travel poster for it.
  10. Play a geography-based board game or computer game. Tell an adult some facts you learned about a place that was part of the game.
  11. Draw or make a map of your state. Include rivers, mountain ranges, state parks, and cities. Include a key or legend of map symbols.

Geology

This subject was added in September, 2002.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Define geology.
  2. Collect a sample of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Explain how each was formed.
  3. Explain the difference between a rock and a mineral.

Academics Pin

Earn the Geology belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Make a plaster cast of a fossil.
  2. Make a special collection of rocks and minerals that illustrates the hardness scale.
  3. Give examples of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.
  4. Gather several different types of rocks. Compare them and put them in groups according to physical properties such as color, texture, luster, hardness, or crystals.
  5. Describe the effects of wind, water, and ice on the landscape.
  6. Make "pet rocks" using rocks, paint, and glue-on eyes. Tell a creative story about your pet rocks.
  7. Draw a diagram showing different types of volcanoes or draw a diagram that labels the different parts of a volcano.
  8. Make a crystal garden.
  9. Make a collection of five different fossils and identify them to the best of your ability.
  10. Make a poster or display showing 10 everyday products that contain or use rocks or minerals.
  11. Visit a mine, oil or gas field, gravel pit, stone quarry, or similar area of special interest related to geology.
  12. Visit with a geologist. Find out how he or she prepared for the job. Discuss other careers related to geology.
  13. Draw the inside of a cave showing the difference between stalactites and stalagmites.

Heritages

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Talk with members of your family about your family heritage: its history, traditions, and culture.
  2. Make a poster that shows the origins of your ancestors. Share it with your den or other group.
  3. Draw a family tree showing members of your family for three generations.

Academics Pin

Earn the Heritages belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Participate in a pack heritage celebration in which Cub Scouts give presentations about their family heritage.
  2. Attend a family reunion.
  3. Correspond with a pen pal from another country. Find out how his or her heritage is different from yours.
  4. Learn 20 words in a language other than your native language.
  5. Interview a grandparent or other family elder about what it was like when he or she was growing up.
  6. Work with a parent or adult partner to organize family photographs in a photo album.
  7. Visit a genealogy library and talk with the librarian about how to trace family records. Variation:- Access a genealogy Web site and learn how to use it to find out information about ancestors.
  8. Make an article of clothing, a toy, or a tool that your ancestors used. Show it to your den.
  9. Help your parent or adult partner prepare one of your family's traditional food dishes.
  10. Learn about the origin of your first, middle, or last name.

Map and Compass

This subject was added in September, 2002.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Show how to orient a map. Find three landmarks on the map
  2. Explain how a compass works.
  3. Draw a map of your neighborhood. Label the streets and plot the route you take to get to a place that you often visit.

Academics Pin

Earn the Map and Compass belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Define cartography.
  2. Make a poster showing 10 map symbols and their meaning.
  3. Read a book or story about a famous explorer or navigator. Tell your den or family what you learned.
  4. Make a simple compass with a magnet and pin.
  5. Explain the difference between latitude and longitude and show them on a map or globe.
  6. Draw a compass rose for a map. Label north, south, east, and west.
  7. Study a blank map of the United States of America. Label your state, and the states that share its boundary lines.
  8. In the field, show how to take a compass bearing and how to follow it.
  9. Show how to measure distances, using a scale on a map legend.
  10. Measure your pace. Then layout a simple compass course for your den to try.
  11. Using a road map, determine how many miles it is between two major cities or familiar destinations.
  12. Explain what the different map colors can mean on a map.

Mathematics

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Do five activities within your home or school that require the use of mathematics. Explain to your den how you used everyday math.
  2. Keep track of the money you earn and spend for three weeks.
  3. Measure five items using both metric and non-metric measures. Find out about the history of the metric system of measurement.

Academics Pin

Earn the Mathematics belt loop, and complete one from each of the five areas below:

  1. Geometry is related to measurement but also deals with objects and positions in space.
    1. Many objects can be recognized by their distinctive shapes: a tree, a piece of broccoli, a violin. Collect 12 items that can be recognized, classified, and labeled by their distinctive shape or outline.
    2. Select a single shape or figure. Observe the world around you for at least a week and keep a record of where you see this shape or figure and how it is used.
    3. Study geometry in architecture by exploring your neighborhood or community. Look at different types of buildings-houses, churches, businesses, etc.-and create a presentation (a set of photographs, a collage of pictures from newspapers and magazines, a model) that you can share with your den or pack to show what you have seen and learned about shapes in architecture.
  2. Calculating is adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing numbers.
    1. Learn how an abacus or slide rule works and teach it to a friend or to your den or pack.
    2. Go shopping with an adult and use a calculator to add up how much the items you buy will cost. See whether your total equals the total at check out.
    3. Visit a bank and have someone there explain to you about how interest works. Use the current interest rate and calculate how much interest different sums of money will earn.
  3. Statistics is collecting and organizing numerical information and studying patterns.
    1. Explain the meaning of these statistical words and tools: data, averaging, tally marks, bar graph, line graph, pie chart, and percentage.
    2. Conduct an opinion survey through which you collect data to answer a question, and then show your results with a chart or graph. For instance: What is the favorite food of the Cub Scouts in your pack (chart how many like pizza, how many like hamburgers, etc.).
    3. Study a city newspaper to find as many examples as you can of statistical information.
    4. Learn to use a computer spreadsheet.
  4. Probability helps us know the chance or likelihood of something happening.
    1. Explain to your den how a meteorologist or insurance company (or someone else) might use the mathematics of probability to predict what might happen in the future (i.e., the chance that it might rain, or the chance that someone might be in a car accident).
    2. Conduct and keep a record of a coin toss probability experiment.
    3. Guess the probability of your sneaker landing on its bottom, top, or side, and then flip it 100 times to find out which way it lands. Use this probability to predict how a friend's sneaker will land.
  5. Measuring is using a unit to express how long or how big something is, or how much of it there is.
    1. Interview four adults in different occupations to see how they use measurement in their jobs.
    2. Measure how tall someone is. Have them measure you.
    3. Measure how you use your time by keeping a diary or log of what you do for a week. Then make a chart or graph to display how you spend your time.
    4. Measure, mix, and cook at least two recipes. Share your snacks with family, friends, or your den.

Music

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain why music is an important part of our culture.
  2. Pick a song with at least two verses and learn it by heart.
  3. Listen to four different types of music either recorded or live.

Academics Pin

Earn the Music belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Make a musical instrument and play it for your family, den, or pack.
  2. Teach your den a song.
  3. Play a song by yourself or in a group, in unison or in harmony.
  4. Create an original melody and/or original words for a song.
  5. Using a tape recorder, capture natural sounds of the environment or record songs you create, and use your recording as a soundtrack for a short skit or as background for a movement activity.
  6. Attend a live musical performance or concert.
  7. Demonstrate conducting patterns for two songs using two different meters (two-, three-, or four- beat meter) while your adult partner or den members sing or play the songs you have selected.
  8. Take voice or dance lessons or lessons to learn to play an instrument.
  9. Create movements to a piece of music without words to demonstrate the moods of the music: happy, sad, calm, excited, playful, inspired.
  10. Learn about a composer of some music that you enjoy.

Science

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the scientific method to your adult partner.
  2. Use the scientific method in a simple science project Explain the results to an adult.
  3. Visit a museum, a laboratory, an observatory, a zoo, an aquarium, or other facility that employs scientists. Talk to a scientist about his or her work.

Academics Pin

Earn the Science belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Make a simple electric motor that works.
  2. Find a stream or other area that shows signs of erosion. Try to discover the cause of the erosion.
  3. Plant seeds. Grow a flower, garden vegetable, or other plant.
  4. Use these simple machines to accomplish tasks: lever, pulley, wheel-and-axle, wedge, inclined plane, and screw.
  5. Learn about solids, liquids, and gases using just water. Freeze water until it turns into ice. Then, with an adult, heat the ice until it turns back into a liquid and eventually boils and becomes a gas.
  6. Build models of two atoms and two molecules, using plastic foam balls or other objects.
  7. Make a collection of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks and label them.
  8. Learn about a creature that lives in the ocean. Share what you have learned with your den or family.
  9. Label a drawing or diagram of the bones of the human skeleton.
  10. Make a model or poster of the solar system. Label the planets and the sun.
  11. Do a scientific experiment in front of an audience. Explain your results.

  12. Read a book about a science subject that interests you.

Weather

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Make a poster that shows and explains the water cycle.
  2. Set up a simple weather station to record rainfall, temperature, air pressure, or evaporation for one week.
  3. Watch the weather forecast on a local television station.

Academics Pin

Earn the Weather belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Define the following terms: weather, humidity, precipitation, temperature, and wind.
  2. Explain how clouds are made. Describe the different kinds of clouds - stratus, cumulus, cumulonimbus, and cirrus - and what kind of weather can be associated with these cloud types.
  3. Describe the climate in your state. Compare its climate with that in another state.
  4. Describe a potentially dangerous weather condition in your community. Discuss safety precautions and procedures for dealing with this condition.
  5. Define what is meant by acid rain. Explain the greenhouse effect.
  6. Talk to a meteorologist about his or her job. Learn about careers in meteorology.
  7. Make a weather map of your state or country, using several weather symbols.
  8. Explain the differences between tornadoes and hurricanes.
  9. Make a simple weather vane. Make a list of other weather instruments and describe what they do.
  10. Explain how weather can affect agriculture and the growing of food.
  11. Make a report to your den or family on a book about weather.

  12. Explain how rainbows are formed and then draw and color a rainbow.

Wildlife Conservation

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain what natural resources are and why it's important to protect and conserve them.
  2. Make a poster that shows and explains the food chain. Describe to your den what happens if the food chain becomes broken or damaged.
  3. Learn about an endangered species. Make a report to your den that includes a picture, how the species came to be endangered, and what is being done to save it.

Academics Pin

Earn the Wildlife Conservation belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Visit a wildlife sanctuary, nature center, or fish hatchery.
  2. Collect and read five newspaper or magazine articles that discuss conservation of wildlife and report to your family or den what you learn.
  3. Learn about five animals that use camouflage to protect themselves.
  4. Make a birdbath and keep a record for one week of the different birds that visit it.
  5. Make a collage of animals that are in the same class: fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, or mammals.
  6. Make a plaster cast of an animal track. Show it to your den.
  7. Visit with a person who works in wildlife conservation, such as a park ranger, biologist, range manager, geologist, horticulturist, zookeeper, fishery technician, or conservation officer.
  8. Visit a state park or national park.
  9. Participate in an environmental service project that helps maintain habitat for wildlife, such as cleaning up an area or planting trees.

Cub Scout Sports

Archery

These requirements became effective in 2003 with the publication of a new edition of
Shooting Sports for Cub Scouts, No. 13-550.
For the old requirements, click here.

The Archery loop and pin can be awarded only by a certified Cub Scout Archery shooting director.

Archery, like BB-gun shooting, is a camp program. Boys can earn archery recognition items only at council/district day camp, resident camp, or council-managed family camping programs.

To be a qualified and trained archery range supervisor, adults must take part in an archery supervisor training program conducted by the local council with the help of a National Camping School-certified field sports director or a National Archery Association (NAA) instructor.

Although archery programs are not permitted at den and pack activities, leaders can help parents understand the importance of training and encourage attendance of boys at Cub Scout camps that offer this training.

Cub Scout Sports for Camp Only

Shooting Sports for Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts, and Parents in Camp, No. 13-550, has been developed for those who will give guidance to Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts in learning BB-gun and archery shooting-sports skills while in camp.

The Archery belt loop and pin can only be awarded by a BSA range-trained shooting-sports director.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules for safe archery that you have learned in the district/council camp or activity you are attending with your leader or adult partner.
  2. Demonstrate to your leader or adult partner good archery shooting techniques, including the stance and how to nock the arrow, establish the bow, draw, aim, release, follow-through and retrieve arrows.
  3. Practice shooting at your district or council camp for the time allowed.

Sports Pin

A certified range officer must be present.

Earn the archery belt loop and complete five of the following:

  1. Explain the parts of a bow and demonstrate how to string the bowstring in a proficient manner.
  2. Demonstrate how to properly use archery equipment, including arm guards, finger tabs, and quivers and explain about proper clothing.
  3. Develop proficient shooting techniques by practicing for three hours.
  4. Learn the correct scoring techniques for target archery.
  5. Make a poster that emphasizes the four whistle codes.
  6. Draw to scale or set up an archery range.
  7. Shoot 30 arrows from a distance of 30 feet at a target and score at least 50 points, or shoot 30 arrow from a distance of 90 feet and score at least 30 points.
  8. Help make a type of target for the camp archery range.
  9. Show how to put away and properly store archery equipment.
  10. Tell five facts about an archer in history or literature.

Cub Scout Shooting Sports Award Certificate

Before firing the Pro Archer course, the camper is to complete the following:

  1. Explain how to string your bow and explain the use of archery equipment.
  2. Be able to list and discuss nine points in 'Shooting Techniques."

Pro Archer Level

Shoot five groups (three arrows per group) trying to group each set within a circle the size of the nine-ring. (No specific score is required.)

Then fire for the Pro Archer score.

Level of Recognition Number of Arrows Distance Score
Pro Archer 30 15 feet 30
Archer I 30 20 feet 30
Archer II 30 20 feet 50
Archer III 30 20 feet 100

In Cub Scout archery, the camp awards the certificate when the Cub Scout or Webelos Scout qualifies for the different levels of recognition. It is possible to earn four certificates if every level of marksmanship has been accomplished.

BB-Shooting

These requirements became effective in 2003 with the publication of a new edition of
Shooting Sports for Cub Scouts, No. 13-550.
For the old requirements, click here.

The BB shooting loop and pin can be awarded only by a certified Cub Scout BB gun shooting director at a BSA approved camp.

Many Cub Scouts have BB guns or air rifles at home and will be exposed to some type of firearm while growing up. Parents should understand that safety is as necessary with BB guns and air rifles as it is in any other aspect of shooting. Training is essential in learning how to shoot well, and safe shooting habits developed early help provide the atmosphere for learning these skills.

Gun-shooting sports are not an approved part of the Cub Scout program, except at Cub Scout day or resident camp. At camp, boys might have an opportunity to take part in a BB-gun (rifle) safety and marksmanship program under the direction of a trained BB-gun range officer. These range officers must attend a three-hour training program conducted by a National Camping School-certified field sports director or National Rifle Association (NRA) instructor.

Although gun-shooting sports are not permitted as den and pack activities, leaders can help parents understand the importance of training and encourage attendance of boys at Cub Scout day camps that offer this training.

Cub Scout Sports for Camp Only

Shooting Sports for Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts, and Parents in Camp, No. 13-550, has been developed for those who will give guidance to Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts in learning BB-gun and archery shooting-sports skills while in camp.

The BB Gun safety and shooting participation belt loop and pin can only be awarded with approval of the camp BB-gun shooting-sports director to Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts who earn them at a BSA facility range.

Belt Loop

Complete these two requirements:
  1. Explain the rules for Safe BB gun shooting you have learned to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Demonstrate to your leader or adult partner good BB gun shooting techniques, including eye dominance, shooting shoulder, breathing, sight alignment, trigger squeeze, follow through.
  3. Practice shooting at your district or your council camp in the time allowed.

Sports Pin

A certified range officer must be present.

Earn the BB gun shooting Belt Loop and complete FIVE OF THE FOLLOWING:

  1. Explain the parts of a BB gun and demonstrate how to properly load the gun.
  2. Demonstrate the shooting positions.
  3. Develop proficient shooting techniques by practicing for three hours.
  4. Learn the correct scoring techniques for target BB gun shooting.
  5. Make a poster that emphasizes the proper range commands.
  6. Draw to scale or set up a BB gun shooting range.
  7. Show improvement in your shooting ability with an increase in scoring points.
  8. Help make a type of target for the camp BB gun shooting range.
  9. Show how to put away and properly store BB gun shooting equipment after use.
  10. Explain how to use the safety mechanism on a BB gun.
  11. Tell five facts about the history of BB guns.

Councils may provide extra opportunities for a boy and his adult partner to continue qualifying for a pin after the council camp experience is over. However, a certified range officer must be present for shooting credits to be valid.

Cub Scout Shooting Sports Award Certificate

Certificates may be awarded to the Cub Scout or Webelos Scout at any time he achieves a level of marksmanship. It is possible to earn five certificates if every level of marksmanship has been accomplished.

Score Requirements for BB Gun Recognition Certificate

. Before completing the Pro Marksman requirements below, the following criteria must be met:
Instruction: Complete a basic BB gun marksmanship safety course. Shooting: Fire five groups of shots (three shots per group) that can be covered by a quarter, and then adjust the BB gun sights so that the group is centered on a bull’s eye. (No specific score is required.) Then fire the Marksmanship levels shown below.
Marksman Level Target Position Number of Bull’s eyes Required Number of Shots Required per Bull’s eye Minimum Score required per Shot
Pro Marksman

TQ-40

Bench rest

5

5

8
.
Marksman Levels Target Position Number of Bull’s eyes Required Number of Shots Required per Bull’s eye Minimum Score required per Shot
Marksman I

TQ-40

Standing

10

5

20
Marksman II

TQ-40

Prone

10

5

35
Marksman III

TQ-40

Kneeling

10

5

25
Marksman IV

TQ-40

Sitting

10

5

30

 

Badminton

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of badminton to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing badminton skills.
  3. Participate in a badminton game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Badminton belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community badminton tournament.
  2. Demonstrate your knowledge of the use and care of the equipment needed to play badminton: shuttlecock (shuttle or bird), racket, court, net, and comfortable clothes and shoes.
  3. Demonstrate skill in the following grip techniques: forehand and backhand.
  4. Spend at least 60 minutes practicing to develop skills for shots and strokes (clear, drive, drop, and smash). Keep track of your time on a chart.
  5. Demonstrate skill in the following: hit the shuttle using forehand or backhand; hit the shuttle, alternating forehand and backhand; hit the shuttle against the wall with a forehand or backhand; hit the shuttle against the wall, alternating forehand and backhand.
  6. Accurately lay out a badminton court, including net and lines.
  7. Play five games of badminton.
  8. Participate in a badminton skills development clinic.
  9. Play at least three games during which you make your own foul calls effectively to your leader's satisfaction.

Baseball

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of baseball to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing baseball skills.
  3. Participate in a baseball game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Baseball belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Participate in a pack or community baseball tournament.
  2. Demonstrate skill in two of the following throwing techniques: overhand, sidearm, underhand, and the relay throw.
  3. Demonstrate skill in two of the following catching techniques: fielding a ground ball, fielding a pop-up, catching a line drive.
  4. Demonstrate correct pitching techniques.
  5. Demonstrate correct hitting techniques,
  6. Explain the rules of base running. Explain base coaching signals.
  7. Demonstrate skill in the following sliding techniques: the straight-in slide, the hook slide, and the headfirst slide.
  8. Play five games of baseball using standard baseball rules.
  9. Draw a baseball field to scale or set one up for play.
  10. Attend a high school, college, or professional baseball game.
  11. Read a book about a baseball player and give a report about him or her to your den or family.

Basketball

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of basketball to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing basketball skills.
  3. Participate in a basketball game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Basketball belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community basketball tournament.
  2. Demonstrate effective passing using the chest pass, bounce pass, over-the-head pass, and baseball pass.
  3. Successfully demonstrate the set shot and jump shot shooting styles.
  4. Demonstrate skill in the following dribbling techniques: high dribble, low dribble, turn able dribble, change-of-pace dribble, and combination dribble.
  5. Spend at least 30 minutes on three different occasions developing individual defensive skills.
  6. Explain and demonstrate 10 official basketball signals.
  7. Play three -shot-improving games with a member of your den or team.
  8. Play five games of basketball.
  9. Participate in a basketball clinic.
  10. Attend a high school, college, or professional basketball game.

Bicycling

These requirements became effective in September, 2002.
For the old requirements, click here.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of safe bicycling to your den leader or adult partner.
  2. Demonstrate how to wear the proper safety equipment for bicycling.
  3. Show how to ride a bike safely. Ride for at least half an hour with an adult partner, your family, or your den.

Sports Pin

Earn the Bicycling belt loop, complete requirement 1 below, and do four additional requirements

  1. Make a chart to record at least 10 hours of bicycling. (Required)
  2. Participate in a pack, den, or community bike rodeo.
  3. Demonstrate how to repair a flat tire on a bicycle.
  4. Make a poster illustrating different types of early bikes and show it to your den.
  5. Give a demonstration to your den or pack on the proper use of safety equipment and gear.
  6. With the help of a parent or adult partner, register or reregister your bicycle.
  7. Go on a "bicycle hike" with your family or den. Obey traffic rules related to bicycling.
  8. Repair or restore a nonfunctioning bicycle to a safe condition. Include the installation of all proper safety devices.
  9. Visit a bicycle race or exhibition.
  10. Help set up a bike rodeo or bike competition for your pack.

Bowling

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain to your leader or adult partner the rules of courtesy and safety for bowling.
  2. Show how to pick out a ball of proper weight and with finger holes that fit your hand.
  3. Play a complete game with your family or den.

Sports Pin

Earn the Bowling belt loop, and do five of the following requirements

  1. Give a brief history of the sport of bowling.
  2. Define the following terms: strike, spare, split, miss, and foul. Show their symbols for scoring.
  3. Demonstrate proper stance, delivery, balance, and follow-through to your leader or adult partner.
  4. Try different types of delivery and hand positions and see which work best for you.
  5. Score a complete game using a score sheet and the proper symbols.
  6. Play at least four games and chart your progress. Figure out your average score.
  7. Compete in a Scout, family, school, or community bowling tournament.
  8. Take bowling lessons.
  9. Attend a parent, high school, college, or professional bowling competition.
  10. Visit a bowling alley and learn about the care and maintenance of the bowling lanes, pins, and racks.

Fishing

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Review your local fishing regulations with your leader or adult partner. Explain why they are important, and commit to following them.
  2. Demonstrate how to properly bait a hook.
  3. Try to catch a fish.

Sports Pin

Earn the Fishing belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community fishing tournament.
  2. Demonstrate how to clean a fish.
  3. Prepare a report on three different kinds of fish. Include information on preferred habitats, feeding habits, and recommended fishing techniques, baits, and equipment needed to catch it.
  4. Draw a picture of three different types of fishing reels. Explain how each works.
  5. Tie three fishing flies. Use at least one to fish.
  6. Demonstrate proficiency in casting at a target 30 feet away.
  7. Select a species of fish and draw a picture of it, correctly labeling each part and its function.
  8. Replace the line in a fishing reel.
  9. Make a simple pole and line fishing rig. Use it to catch a fish.
  10. Catch a fish using artificial bait or lures.
  11. Practice fishing on five occasions, complying with local fishing regulations and the Outdoor Code.

Flag Football

This sport was added in September, 2002.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain or discuss the simple rules of flag football with your den.
  2. Practice running, passing, and catching skills for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Play a game of flag football.

Sports Pin

Earn the Flag Football belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Layout and properly mark a flag football field at a park or playground.
  2. Explain the difference between defense and offense in a flag football game.
  3. Describe five different positions a player may play in flag football. Name the position that you prefer to play.
  4. During three half-hour sessions, practice the skills of passing, hand-offs, rushing, and running.
  5. Participate in a flag-football clinic.
  6. Consider all the people who make it possible to play a game of flag football. List parents, coaches, team members, scorekeepers, referees, groundskeepers, etc,
  7. Play in five flag football games without incurring a penalty.
  8. Explain and demonstrate at least six football officiating signals.
  9. Attend a high school, college, or community league football game.
  10. Read a book about a football player and tell your den or family about the player's training and work ethics.
  11. Talk with a referee or official of a high school, college, or community football league and learn about the job he or she does at a football game.

Golf

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of golf to your leader or adult partner. Explain the need for caution concerning golf clubs and golf balls.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing golfing skills.
  3. Participate in a round of golf (nine holes).

Sports Pin

Earn the Golf belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Explain the use of woods and irons. Explain their differences.
  2. Explain how par is determined for a hole.
  3. Demonstrate the proper grip of the club to your leader, adult partner, or instructor.
  4. Spend 30 minutes practicing the swing styles: full swing, approach swing, and putting swing.
  5. Spend 30 minutes practicing aim, stance, and the address position.
  6. Draw a diagram of a typical golf hole, from tee to green.
  7. Demonstrate your knowledge of the use and care of golf equipment: clubs, ball, tee, bag, shoes, and gloves.
  8. Describe the composition of a regulation golf ball.
  9. Take golf lessons.
  10. Spend 30 minutes hitting balls on a driving range.
  11. Play miniature golf.

Gymnastics

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the six events of men's gymnastics: floor exercise, pommel horse, still rings, vaulting / side horse, parallel bars, and horizontal bar.
  2. Participate in three of the six events using the proper equipment.
  3. Explain the safety rules you should follow to learn gymnastics

Sports Pin

Earn the Gymnastics belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Write a report on the history of gymnastics.
  2. Take gymnastics lessons.
  3. Attend a gymnastics meet.
  4. Practice and demonstrate five floor exercise skills.
  5. Practice and demonstrate two skills used on the pommel horse.
  6. Demonstrate two skills on the still rings.
  7. Demonstrate two skills using parallel bars.
  8. Demonstrate two skills using the horizontal learn gymnastics. bar.
  9. Demonstrate a vault using the side horse.
  10. Develop a regular routine of physical and mental conditioning.
  11. Learn about three U.S. gymnasts who have won medals in the Olympics.

Ice Skating

These are basically a rewrite of the former Skating Belt Loop and Pin specifically for ICE skating.
To see the former requirements, which included both Roller and Ice Skating,
and which were in effect until September, 2002,  click here.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain ways to protect yourself while ice skating, and the need for proper safety equipment.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing the skills of skating.
  3. Go ice skating with a family member or your den for a total of at least three hours. Chart your time.

Sports Pin

Earn the Ice Skating belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Participate in a pack or community skating event.
  2. Demonstrate how to sharpen your skates correctly.
  3. Demonstrate how to lace, assemble, and dissemble your skates correctly.
  4. On two occasions, spend at least 30 minutes practicing warm-up exercises before skating.
  5. Play a skating game on the ice.
  6. Learn two new figure-skating skills: Forward Swizzles, Glides, Backward Swizzles, and Backward Wiggle.
  7. Demonstrate how to "start" in a speed skating race.
  8. Explain the difference between long-track and short-track speed skating.
  9. Participate in a skating skill development clinic.
  10. Tell about an Olympian athlete in figure skating or speed skating. What were some of his or her best traits?

The Cub Scout Sports Ice Skating belt loop and pin are for speed and figure skating on ice. See Roller Skating for information on roller skating and in-line skating (roller blading) requirements.

Marbles

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of Ringer or another marble game to your leader or adult partner
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing skills to play the game of Ringer or another marble game.
  3. Participate in a game of marbles

Sports Pin

Earn the Marbles belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a den, pack, or community marbles tournament
  2. Explain to an adult what lagging is.
  3. Demonstrate how to do it.
  4. Demonstrate the following shooting techniques: knuckling down, bowling, and lofting (also called plunking).
  5. Explain the correct way of scoring for a game game. of marbles.
  6. Play five complete matches of marbles using standard rules.
  7. Start a collection of marbles and show it at a den or pack meeting.
  8. Write a short report on the history of marbles and share it with your den or family.
  9. Explain the rules about shooters.

Physical Fitness

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Give a short report to your den or family on the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
  2. Practice finding your pulse and counting your heartbeats per minute. Determine your target heart rate.
  3. Practice five physical fitness skills regularly. Improve performance in each skill over a month. Skills could include pull-ups, curl-ups, the standing long jump, the 50-yard dash, and the softball throw.

Sports Pin

Earn the Physical Fitness belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Make a diagram of the Food Guide Pyramid. List foods you ate in a week and show where they fit in the pyramid.
  2. Choose a form of exercise, bring your heart rate up to target, and keep it there for 15 minutes. Don't forget to warm up and cool down.
  3. Set up a four-step exercise program. Chart your progress for five days a week for two weeks.
  4. Explain the reason for warming up and cooling down before and after each exercise session.
  5. Visit a local gym and talk to a trainer about exercises and programs for young people.
  6. Participate in some aerobic exercises at least three times a week for four weeks.
  7. Build an obstacle course that could include some exercises with jumping, crawling, and hurdles. Time yourself three times to see whether you can improve your time.
  8. Swim for a total of an hour, charting your time as you go.
  9. Participate for at least three months in an organized team sport or organized athletic activity.

Roller Skating

These are basically a rewrite of the former Skating Belt Loop and Pin specifically for ROLLER skating.
To see the former requirements, which included both Roller and Ice Skating,
and which were in effect until September, 2002,  click here.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain ways to protect yourself while roller skating or inline skating, and the need for proper safety equipment.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing the skills of roller skating or inline skating.
  3. Go skating with a family member or den for at least three hours. Chart your time.

Sports Pin

Earn the Roller Skating belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Participate in a pack or community skating event.
  2. Demonstrate how to disassemble and reassemble skates.
  3. Explain the proper clothing for roller or inline skating.
  4. Spend at least 30 minutes, on two occasions, practicing warm up exercises before skating.
  5. Play a game of roller hockey,
  6. Learn two new roller skating skills: Forward Scissors, Forward Stroking, Crossover, or Squat Skate.
  7. Participate in a roller or inline skating skill development clinic.
  8. Demonstrate how to stop quickly and safely.
  9. Demonstrate how to skate backwards. Skate backwards for five feet.
  10. Play a game on roller skates, roller blades, or inline skates.

The Cub Scout Sports Roller Skating activity includes roller skating and inline skating (roller blading). See Ice Skating for information on figure skating and speed skating pin and belt loop requirements.

Snow Ski and Board Sports

These requirements are basically a rewrite of the former Skiing Belt Loop and Pin
To see the former requirements, which were in effect until September, 2002,  click here.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the conditioning, clothing, equipment, and planning needed for snow skiing or boarding.
  2. Be able to explain safety and courtesy codes for a downhill or cross-country trip.
  3. Go skiing or snow boarding. Demonstrate how to stop and turn.

Sports Pin

Earn the Snow Ski and Board Sports belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Explain the different kinds of ski lifts. Use one.
  2. Describe the four universal symbols used to indicate ski trail difficulty.
  3. Demonstrate how to hold your position, get up from a fall, and do basic turns
  4. Demonstrate how to fall safely to avoid injury.
  5. Demonstrate five cross country skills, such as a kick turn, diagonal stride, double pole, side-step, step turn, herringbone, straight downhill running, cross-country snowplow, side-slipping, pole drag, diagonal stride uphill, and traverse.
  6. Participate in a game using skis or boards; such as relays, races, or racing around poles or flags.
  7. Explain what to do if you see a skiing or snow boarding accident. Discuss the dangers of avalanche.
  8. Take skiing or snow boarding lessons.
  9. View a film on skiing or snow boarding.
  10. Talk with a member of a ski patrol and learn about the job he or she does at the ski slope.

Soccer

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of soccer to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing soccer skills.
  3. Play a game of soccer.

Sports Pin

Earn the Soccer belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Participate in a pack, school, or community soccer tournament.
  2. Demonstrate the skills of passing, collecting, shooting, heading, dribbling, and tackling.
  3. Demonstrate skill in goal keeping.
  4. Accurately lay out a soccer field for a game.
  5. Demonstrate five types of fouls and explain why players should avoid them.
  6. Demonstrate how to juggle the soccer ball and keep it from touching the ground for 30 seconds.
  7. Play at least two games of Soccer Tennis.
  8. Spend at least a total of six hours playing soccer. Keep track of your time on a chart.
  9. Join a soccer team in your community or school.
  10. Attend a high school, college, or professional soccer game.
  11. Learn about a U.S. Olympic soccer team and report your information to your den.
  12. Explain the history of soccer.

Softball

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of softball to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing softball skills.
  3. Participate in a softball game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Softball belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community softball tournament.
  2. Demonstrate skill in the following throwing techniques: overhand, sidearm, underhand, softball game. and the relay throw.
  3. Demonstrate skill in the following catching techniques: fielding a ground ball, fielding a pop-up, catching a line drive.
  4. Demonstrate correct pitching techniques and practice for three half-hour sessions.
  5. Demonstrate correct hitting techniques, including bunting. Practice for three half-hour sessions.
  6. Explain the rules of base running and demonstrate skill in the following sliding techniques: the straight-in slide, the hook slide, and the headfirst slide.
  7. Learn and demonstrate base coaching signals.
  8. Learn about one defensive position (shortstop, catcher, etc.) and practice at that position for three half-hour sessions.
  9. Attend a high school, college, or community softball game.

Swimming

These requirements became effective in September, 2002.
For the old requirements, click here.

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain rules of Safe Swim Defense. Emphasize the buddy system.
  2. Play a recreational game in the water with your den, pack, or family.
  3. While holding a kick board, propel yourself 25 feet using a flutter kick across the shallow end of the swimming area

Sports Pin

Earn the Swimming belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Practice the breathing motion of the crawl stroke while standing in shallow water. Take a breath, place your head in the water, exhale, and turn your head to the side to take a breath. Repeat.
  2. Learn two of the following strokes: crawl, backstroke, elementary backstroke, sidestroke, or breaststroke.
  3. Learn two of the following floating skills: jellyfish float, turtle float, canoe (prone) float.
  4. Using a kickboard, demonstrate three kinds of kicks.
  5. Pass the "beginner" or "swimmer" swim level test.
  6. Visit with a lifeguard and talk about swimming safety in various situations (pool, lake, river, ocean). Learn about the training a lifeguard needs for his or her job.
  7. Explain the four rescue techniques: Reach, Throw, Row, and Go (with support)
  8. Take swimming lessons.
  9. Attend a swim meet at a school or community pool.
  10. Tread water for 30 seconds.
  11. Learn about a U.S. swimmer who has earned a medal in the Olympics
  12. Demonstrate the proper use of a mask and snorkel in a swimming area where your feet can touch the bottom.

Table Tennis

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of table tennis to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing table tennis skills.
  3. Participate in a table tennis game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Table Tennis belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community table tennis tournament.
  2. Demonstrate your knowledge, use, and care of the equipment needed to play table tennis (racket or paddle, table and net, ball, tennis or basketball shoes, and comfortable clothing).
  3. Practice 30 minutes developing serving skills.
  4. Practice 30 minutes developing your forehand and backhand strokes.
  5. Explain to your leader or adult partner how spin affects the bounce of the ball.
  6. Accurately set up a table tennis table and net according to USA Table Tennis rules.
  7. 7.Play five games of table tennis.
  8. Participate in a table tennis skills development clinic.
  9. Explain to your leader or adult partner how to score a table tennis game.
  10. Participate in a game of doubles table tennis (four people playing in one game, two people per side).

Tennis

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of tennis to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing tennis skills.
  3. Participate in a tennis game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Tennis belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community tennis tournament.
  2. Demonstrate your knowledge of the use and care of the equipment needed to play tennis (rackets, balls, shoes, clothing, and court).
  3. Practice for 30 minutes developing forehand techniques through forehand bump-ups with a bounce, partner bump-ups with a target, forehand alley rally, forehand alley rally over a "net," drop-hit forehand bumps, drop-hit catch in pairs, and toss-hit catch in pairs.
  4. Practice developing serving skills for 30 minutes.
  5. Explain to your leader or adult partner how to score in tennis.
  6. Accurately draw, label, and explain a tennis court layout.
  7. Play five games of tennis using U.S. Tennis Association rules.
  8. Participate in a tennis skills development clinic.
  9. Attend a high school, college, or professional tennis meet.
  10. Present to your den or family a report on the history of tennis.

Ultimate

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of ultimate to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing ultimate skills.
  3. Participate in an ultimate game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Ultimate belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack or community ultimate tournament.
  2. Demonstrate effective pivoting while throwing. Use the following throwing styles: backhand pass, sidearm pass, and upside-down pass.
  3. Demonstrate skill in the following catching techniques: one-handed, clapping, and sandwich.
  4. Spend a total of 90 minutes in practice developing individual defensive skills for the positions of marker and defender. Keep track of your time on a chart.
  5. Explain the flight dynamics of the ultimate disk. Draw a diagram if needed.
  6. Accurately lay out an ultimate playing field, including end zones.
  7. Play five games of ultimate.
  8. Participate in an ultimate skills development clinic.
  9. Explain the history of ultimate and how it became a sport.

Volleyball

Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Explain the rules of volleyball to your leader or adult partner.
  2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing skills to play the sport of volleyball.
  3. Participate in a volleyball game.

Sports Pin

Earn the Volleyball belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Compete in a pack, school, or community volleyball tournament.
  2. Demonstrate skill in two volleyball passing techniques: forearm pass and overhead pass (setting).
  3. Demonstrate skill in two volleyball serving techniques: underhand and overhand.
  4. Spend at least 90 minutes in practice to develop individual skills for volleyball. Make a chart to record your practice efforts.
  5. Explain how volleyball matches are scored, including the terms side-out and rally scoring.
  6. Accurately lay out a volleyball court.
  7. Play five games of volleyball.
  8. Officiate at least three games of volleyball.
  9. Explain the importance of good sportsmanship.
  10. Attend a high school, college, or professional volleyball game.

 

 

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