Varsity Playbook

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Table of Contents

Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page

Special Addendum available upon request with information specic to Unit Sponsor

1. Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22. Varsity Scout Program Features5 Fields of Emphasis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23. Program Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34. Team Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65. Advancement Field of Emphasis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96. High Adventure/Sports Field of Emphasis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107. Personal Development Field of Emphasis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118. Service Field of Emphasis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

9. Special Programs and Events Field of Emphasis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1210. Team Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1311. Other Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1412. Awards and Recognition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1513. Other Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1614. The Uniform and Insignia.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1715. Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1716. Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1817. Appendix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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Scout OathOn my honor I will do my best to domy duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law;To help other people at all times;To keep myself physically strong,mentally awake, and morally straight.

Varsity Scout Pledge As a Varsity Scout I will: Live by the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan; Honor the dignity and worth

of all persons;Promote the cause of freedom; and

Do my best to be a good team member.


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1. Welcome to Varsity ScoutingWelcome!Welcome to Varsity Scouting, a program of the BoyScouts of America for young men ages 14 through16. Packed with opportunities for adventure, leader-ship, personal growth, and service, the Varsity Scoutprogram holds special appeal for older Scouts. It isalso exible enough to allow chartered organizationsto design the program to effectively mesh Scoutingsprinciples and values with the objectives of charteredorganizations.

The Varsity Scout Play Book is designed to giveVarsity Scouts and adult Advisors the tools to de-sign, organize, and conduct successful Varsity Scoutprograms. In this Play Book, you will nd sectionsdevoted to the structure of a Varsity Scout team,the responsibilities and training of youth and adultleaders, and the awards and recognition available to

Varsity Scouts. Thereis plenty of informationabout the high-adven -ture and sports possi-bilities that can energizeVarsity Scout teams,and about the ve eldsof emphasis that en-hance the activities of aVarsity Scout team.

The Values of Varsity ScoutingVarsity Scouting is a values-based program. Its ide -als, found in the scout oath, the scout law, the scoutmotto, and the scout slogan, are the same as thoseevery Boy Scout troop observes. With prior experi -ence as Boy Scouts, most young men who becomeVarsity Scouts already understand and believe inthese ideals. Youth who are new to Varsity Scoutingwill nd that the values of Varsity Scouting serve asvaluable guidelines for their team and for life.

No one falls under a magnifying glass more than aScout leader. Young people carefully observe adults,especially those who provide their guidance. No oneexpects a Scout leader to be perfect. Few adults ac -cepting positions with Varsity Scout teams start outas masters of organization, outdoor skills, or effec-tive understanding of youth.

However, every adult can set an example in his orher own life by observing the scout oath and scoutlaw. Adults can take advantage of opportunitiesto teach Scoutings values during high-adventureactivities and athletic competitions, and with a fewthoughtful words at the end of each team meeting.By being honest, consistent, and eager to do the bestfor members of their team, they can earn the respectof the Varsity Scouts that they serve.

2. Varsity Scout Program Fea-tures and the Five Fields of EmphasisYoung men become interested in Scouting for manyreasons, but few outweigh the promise of highadventure and the chance to participate in sportsactivities. Varsity Scouting answers that interest byoffering a yearly calendar lled with great programfeatures.

Fields of EmphasisThere is much more to Varsity Scouting than ad-ventures and games. By infusing program featureswith activities from each eld of emphasis, theVarsity Scout teamenriches its activi-ties to provide itsmembers with thewidest opportuni-ties for growth,learning, and lead-ership.

Every VarsityScout team con-sistently uses veelds of emphasis.They are equal to one another in importance. Theyshould be balanced in the teams program offerings.The ve elds of emphasis are:

1. AdvancementVarsity Scouts utilize the same advancement pro-gram as Boy Scouts and may continue to work onthe requirements for rank and merit badges as theyprogress towards the Eagle Scout rank. They mayalso receive recognition offered through the 50-Mil-er Award, Mile Swim, and other BSA recognitions.Awards available only for Varsity Scouts include theVarsity Scout Letter and the Denali Award.

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2. High Adventure/SportsVarsity Scout teams plan and take part in challeng-ing physical and mental activities. These endeavorsare as wide ranging as snow camping, whitewaterrafting, backpacking, swimming, and roller hockey.In addition to learning and practicing the skillsneeded to enjoy the activities they choose, manyVarsity Scout teams also set their sights on extendedexperiences at BSA high-adventure bases or at otherlocations that the team selects.

3. Personal DevelopmentVarsity Scouting stresses personal developmentthrough spiritual growth, leadership, citizenship, so-cial, cultural, and physical tness activities. VarsityScouts may also take part in opportunities emphasiz-ing conservation, academics, and scholarship.

4. ServiceTeam members carryout service projects thatbenet their charteredorganization, their com-munity, the environment,and needy individuals.

5. Special Programsand EventsVarsity Scouts can takepart in special programsand events on the district,council, regional, and

national levels. They are eligible to attend nationaland world jamborees.

3. Program PlanningTeam members discuss and select program featuresthat they want to accomplish during the followingyear at an annual program planning clinic. VarsityScout teams plan program features and then devotetheir energies to them for a three-month period.Each high-adventure feature leads to an ultimateadventure, such as an extended backpacking trek.Intrateam games and competition with other VarsityScout teams may highlight sports features. Uponcompleting a feature, Varsity Scouts should havegained prociency in the high-adventure activityor sport and may receive Varsity Scout letters andactivity pins to acknowledge their achievements.

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The snowcampingprogramfeature, forexample,encouragesteam mem-bers to learnthe basicsof livingoutdoorsin winterconditions.Then theyput their new skills to use with outdoor adventures.Weekly meetings over the course of three monthsmay include mentally and physically challenginginitiative games to get the team working together.

Depending on the area, Varsity Scouts may alsolearn how to snowshoe, cross-country ski, and buildigloos, snow caves, and other winter shelters. Theclimax of the three-month program can be an ulti -mate adventure, perhaps a winter camping trip thatwill succeed only with the cooperation and skill of all team members.

It is suggested that (youth) leaders have regularplanning meetings with adult (shadow) leaders at-tending the meetings. These are called chalk talks.

Youth leaders will assign specic tasks in the veelds of emphasis regarding areas of interest for theprograms that have been selected.

There are no requirements for specic Varsityprograms. Team leaders will select requirementsspecic to the needs of their team members.

The following two pages show examples of eight of the 27 programs that are discussed in the Boy Scoutsof America Varsity Guide Book (Item No. 34827,

pages 30-37).

Teams may also design and carry out their ownprograms based on the needs of the members of their team using the 5 elds of emphasis. There isno time limit for a specic program. Different pro -grams may be run simultaneously.


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Program Features at a GlanceThe program examples on this and the following page can be run for less than one month or as long as 3+ months.They can also be run individually or concurrently. Use this chart as a guide to help your Varsity team plan yourprogram. For example, Backpacking is followed by suggestions that your team might use to fulll the 5 areas of emphasis and earn the backpacking activity pin. Program Features do not have specic requirements. Your teamcan create your own set or requirements specic to your interests and needs.

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Program Features Advancement High Adventure/ Sports Service PersonalDevelopment SpecialProgramsBackpacking. Yourteam may have expe-rienced backpackingwhen they were scouts.Preparation time couldinvolve sharpeningpacking skills, makingequipment, condition-ing, and preplanning.

Backpackingmerit badge.Review advance-ment needsfor each teammember.

Cover material in thebackpacking pro -gram feature. Plan abackpacking trip. Theultimate adventurecould be a backpack -ing trip at Philmont oron a trail such as theAppalachian Trail.

While on thebackpackingtrip, carry outa conservationproject.

Plan a worshipservice duringthe trip.

Visit an agencyresponsible fora wildernessarea. Have anexpert conducta session on notrace camping.

Basketball. VarsityScout basketball is funand easy to play. Allyou need are two teams,a ball, and a basketballcourt.

Sports meritbadge. Reviewadvancementneeds of eachteam member.

Cover material in theBasketball programfeature. Join a leagueor play other VarsityScout teams in yourcommunity.

Conduct acoaching ses-sion for youth.

Learn how toprevent andcare for sportsinjuries.

Attend a col-lege or profes-sional basket -ball game.

Cycling. It can be funand challenging to cycleand camp on the sameactivity. Preparationfor a cycling trip wouldinvolve biking mainte -nance, route planningand conditioning.

Cycling meritbadge. Reviewadvancementneeds for eachteam member.

Cover material in thecycling program fea-ture. Plan a bike trip.There are many expertcyclists availableto assist in trainingand planning cyclingactivities.

Plan a serviceproject as partof the biketrip.

Invite a lawenforcementofcer toexplain lawsabout cycling.

Invite a bikeshop owner totell about hisprofession.

Fishing. An ultimateadventure could be a tripto a BSA canoe base.You wont have to makemany phone calls to ndan avid sherman whowould be delighted toshare their expertise onthe sport of shing.

Fishing meritbadge. Reviewadvancementneeds for eachteam member.

Cover the material inthe Fishing programfeature. After somebasic instruction, planand conduct someshing activities.You could include acamping trip to a troutstream or on a lake.

Contact aconservationagency andvolunteer towork on aproject

Invite anaquatics in-structor to cer-tify the team inthe snorkelingBSA program

Invite a mem-ber of TroutUnlimited totalk to yourVarsity teamabout theirorganization.


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Program Features Advancement High Adventure/ Sports Service PersonalDevelopment SpecialProgramsRock Climbing andRappelling. Just imag-ine yourself leaning outover a 50-foot drop withthe open sky aroundyou. Or perhaps youreclimbing the sheer faceof a cliff that extends100 feet straight up.Rappelling and rockclimbing can be chal -lenging adventures.

Review eachteam membersadvancementstatus.

Cover the materialin the Rock Climb -ing and Rappellingprogram feature.Work with a qualiedinstructor and paycareful attention tofollowing the ClimbOn Safely procedures.All members of theteam can safely enjoythis activity.

Conduct aservice projectat your councilcamp.

Have an expertteach a sessionon Climb OnSafely.

Visit a mu-seum witha geologydisplay.

Shooting Sports. If your team is seekinga change of pace, thismay be your sport. ANational Rie Associatequalied instructor isneccessary.

Rie shooting orShotgun shoot-ing merit badge.Review advance-ment needsfor each teammember.

Cover the material inthe Shooting Sportsprogram feature. Plana high-adventure out-ing.

Work witha sheriffsdepartment orpolice depart-ment on a ser-vice project.

Conduct ahunters safetycourse for teammembers.

Visit a shoot-ing range.

Soccer. Soccer doesntrequire a lot of equip-ment, and most youthalready know the basicrules.

Review eachteam membersadvancementstatus.

Cover the material inthe Soccer programfeature. Join a soccerleague. Most parksand recreation depart-ments offer soccerleagues.

Considercoaching akids soccerteam for oneseason.

Invite the man-ager of a sport-ing goods storeto demonstratethe differenttypes of soccerequipment anduniforms.

Have a coedsoccer game.

Waterskiing. This isan exciting, challengingsport whether youreskiing for fun or forcompetition. Improveand learn new waterski-ing techniques.

Waterskiingmerit badge.Review advance-ment needsfor each teammember.

Cover the materialin the Waterskiingprogram feature. Plana waterskiing activ-ity. Find a qualiedinstructor to coach theteam for this activity.

Conduct awater-skiingsafety ses-sion for a BoyScout Troop.

Visit a lawenforcementagency thatmonitors water-ways.

Have a parentteach about thecare and main-tenance of amotor boat.


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4. Team OrganizationWhile the terminology differs, a Varsity Scout teamis organized along similar lines as a Boy Scouttroop. Many Varsity Scouts have been members of Scout troops and know the structure of BSA units.The Varsity Scouting emphasis on team terminol-ogy reects the enthusiasm young people have forsports, outdoor adventure, and other group-orientedactivities. The position descriptions found in thissection are easy to understand, and the team struc-ture is simple to explain and to put into practice.

StructureTeamsThe team is an entire Varsity Scout unit with youthmembers and adult leaders. Like a troop, a teammay consist of as few as three boys and as many as40 or more. The team captain conducts meetings andworks with adult leaders (the team Coach, assistantCoach and Committee members) to develop andcarry out an effective program.

SquadsLarger teams may be divided into squads, or groupssimilar to Boy Scout patrols. Squads function mostefciently when they have ve to seven members, agood size to take maximum advantage of a varietyof activities and have plenty of opportunities formembers to serve as leaders.

Youth Leadership PositionsAn important feature of Varsity Scouting is that itoffers leadership opportunities to virtually everyteam member. A Varsity Scout should never receiveleadership responsibilities without the training heneeds to succeed. Each youth leadership positionshould have an adult counterpart on the team com-mittee who works with the youth leader in a partner-ship similar to what an athlete and a coach enjoy.With training and coaching, every Varsity Scoutwill do his best in succeeding as a leader.The primary leadership positions in a Varsity Scoutteam are:

Team captain Team cocaptain (optional) Squad leaders Program managers

Team CaptainThe youth leader of a Varsity Scout team is thecaptain. Depending on the traditions of the team, the

captain may either be appointedby adult leaders or elected byteam members. A team captaintypically serves a term of sixto 12 months. This individualmust have an understanding of Varsity Scouting and shouldtake advantage of trainingopportunities from the Coach,team committee, district, and council.

The captain seeks out and relies upon the guidanceof the Team Coach. He serves as an example forother team members by adhering to the ideals of thescout oath, law, motto and slogan. He must maintaina positive attitude and encourage others to fullltheir commitments to the team. He strives to be ateam builder and recognizes the strengths and weak -nesses of each team member.

Position Description: Team Captain Conduct team meetings under the

guidance of the Coach Preside at team leadership meetings Select and appoint program managers

with the approval of the Coach. Thecaptain may also serve as a programmanager on a small team.

Coordinate activities with programmanagers

Maintain the spirit of the team in allactivities Set a good example of the ideals of

Scouting Encourage team members to advance

along the Eagle trail Wear the Scout uniform correctly Live by the Scout Oath and Law Show Scout spirit

Team CocaptainThe Cocaptain of a team may be appointed by theteam Coach or elected by team members. He shouldhave the same qualications as the team captain,and be ready to ll in for the captain whenever thecaptain is not able to fulll his responsibilities. Toensure the smooth operation of the team and the bestexperience for all Varsity Scouts, the team captainand Coach may assign certain responsibilities to theCocaptain.

Position Description: Team Cocaptain Preside at meetings when the team

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captain is absent Assume special assignments made by

the coach and captain Set a good example of the ideals of

Scouting Wear the Scout uniform correctly Live by the scout oath and law Show Scout spirit

Squad Leader When a Varsity Scout team is divided into squads,each squad elects one of its members to serve as itsleader. A Varsity Scout squad leader conducts squadmeetings similar to a patrol leader in a scout troop.This individual ensures participation of the squad atall team activities, and represents the squad at teamleadership meetings.

Position Description: Squad Leader

Conduct squad meetings Represent the squad at team leadermeetings

Lead the squad during team activities Maintain the spirit of the team in all

activities Set a good example of the ideals of

Scouting Encourage squad members to advance

along the Eagle trail Wear the Scout uniform correctly. Live by the Scout Oath and Law. Show Scout spirit.

Program ManagersEvery Varsity Scout team has ve program manag -ers one Varsity Scout in charge of each eld of emphasis. Each program manager works closelywith an adult program adviser who is also a mem-ber of the team committee. With the advisers help,the program manager plans, organizes, and leadsthe activities of his eld of emphasis. He reports tothe team captain regarding his activities, plans, and

concerns.

The program managers greatest challenge is to seethat every Varsity Scout is involved in his particulareld of emphasis.

Other Youth PositionsThe following Varsity Scout leadership positionscan be lled as needed. The team captain makesthese appointments with the Coachs approval.

Scribe

Librarian Historian Quartermaster Order of the Arrow team representative Bugler Chaplain aide Instructor Den Chief

Adult Leadership PositionsA Varsity Scout team is designed to put youth mem-bers in leadership roles. An adult counterpart thensupports each of those roles. For instance, the Coachsupports the captain, and the adult program adviserfor advancement supports the young man serving asprogram advancement manager.

The ideal adults for team leadership positions areparents or guardians of team members and/or mem -

bers of the chartered organization. A strong teamwill involve as many adults as possible in its leader -ship. If a team is small, adults may hold more thanone adult team leadership position.

Varsity Scout CoachThe key adult leader of a Varsity Scout team is theCoach. Sometimes in the middle of activities butmore often from the sidelines, the Coach tries veryhard to make it possible for Varsity Scouts to worktogether as effective team players who live accord-

ing to the principles of Scouting. The charteredorganization must give careful thought to the re-sponsibilities of a Varsity Scout Coach and select acandidate who will do his or her best to fulll theseobligations.

Position Description: Varsity Scout Coach

Become trained for your position Train and guide Varsity Scout youth

leaders to run their teams Involve the parents of team members to

maximize the effectiveness of VarsityScouting

Attend all team meetings and activities Guide team leaders in planning the

program Conduct Coaches conferences for rank

advancement with each Varsity Scout

Meet and work with the teamcommittee

Help recruit assistant team Coaches Take advantage of available training

opportunities

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Attend roundtables to share ideas withother Coaches in the district and council

Maintain the principles and rules of theBoy Scouts of America

Wear the Scout uniform correctly

Assistant Varsity Scout CoachesA team may have as many assistant Coaches as it deems

necessary. Assistant Coaches often possess special skillsthat enhance the teams activities, and they can serveas valuable resources in carrying out the Varsity Scoutprogram. The chartered organization must give the samecare to choosing assistant Coaches as it does to selectinga Varsity Scout Coach.

Position Description: Assistant Varsity Scout Coach Become trained for your position Assume duties assigned by the Coach Take advantage of available training

opportunities Attend roundtables to share ideas with

Coaches and assistant Coaches of otherteams in the district and council

Train squad leaders Meet and work with the team committee Fill in for the Coach when the Coach is

absent Maintain the principles and rules of the

Boy Scouts of America

Wear the Scout uniform correctly Become trained for your position

Position Description: Program Adviser Serve on the team committee Guide and mentor a youth program

manager of a specic eld of emphasis Complete all training that is available

for the adult Varsity Scout leader Set an example for youth members by

maintaining the principles and rules of the Boy Scouts of America

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Squad Leader 5-7 Boys

Special Programs/Events Manager

ServiceManager

Personal Develop-ment Manager

High-Adventure/Sports Manager

Captain Assistant CoachCoach

AdvancementManager

Large Team (More than 20 Members)

AdultManager

AdultManager

AdultManager

AdultManager

AdultManager




Cocaptain

Medium Team (5-20 Members)

Cocaptain



ServiceManager

Personal Develop-ment Manager

High-Adventure/Sports Manager

AdvancementManager

AdultManager

AdultManager

AdultManager

AdultManager

AdultManager



Varsity Scout Team Organization Youth Leadership is built upon a foundation of Adult Support

Squad Leader 1- 5 Boys

AdultManager

Small Team (Less than 5 Members)

High-Adventure/ Sports Manager

Advancement Manager Service Manager


AdultManager


Number of squads determined by number of boys in team.

Adults

YoungMen

Cocaptain

Cocaptain

Cocaptain Cocaptain


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Varsity Team Committee MemberA team may have as many committee members asit deems necessary. A good functioning committeeof qualied adults takes the burden of running theVarsity team off of the Varsity Coach and AssistantCoaches. Committee members should be trainedand willing to attend district round tables and teamfunctions and activities.

5. Advancement Field of Em-phasisThe Varsity Scout advancement program encour-ages young men to meet signicant challenges thatlead to personal growth. Among the strengths of theVarsity Scout advancement program are:

Fun Varsity Scout team members having a good timemay not realize that they are also involved in aneducational process. The fun of advancementmotivates them to challenge themselves to try newactivities and master new skills.

Progress MeasurementBadges of rank and recognition awards allowVarsity Scouts to clearly see how much they have

achieved and whatchallenges lie

ahead. They canestablish goals forthemselves and,one step at a time,complete what theyhave set out to do.A goal as lofty asbecoming an EagleScout may some-times seem out of reach, but the ad -

vancement programbreaks down theprocess into a seriesof small steps.

RecognitionThe most importantrecognition Var-sity Scouts receivefrom completingrequirements is the

condence and feeling of self-worth they build bymastering new skills as they take part in challengingadventures.

Varsity Scouting also motivates young men by pub -licly acknowledging their achievements. A newlyearned activity pin, merit badge, or badge of rankpresented to a Scout in front of peers and family of-fers tangible proof of the Scouts accomplishmentsand a positive incentive for continued success.Immediate recognition is a powerful incentive of the Boy Scoutsadvancementprogram. Asimple ceremonyat the conclusionof a team meet-ing or during acampout is ideal,with the Coachpresenting thebadge. A teamholds a court of honor about ev -ery three months. The teams advancement programmanager, with the assistance of an adult programadviser and the team committee, organizes courts of honor.

Position Description: Advancement Program

MangerThe Varsity Scout team captain appoints the ad-vancement program manager with the approval of the Coach. Working closely with an adult (the ad-vancement program adviser), the program managertakes responsibility for doing the following:

Keeping track of member progress Communicating with team members Coordinating advancement activities Motivating team members to advance Conducting boards of review for team

members who have completedrequirements Planning and assisting with

coordination of recognition ceremoniesand courts of honor

Setting a good example

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6. High-Adventure/SportsField of EmphasisThe high-adventure/sports eld of emphasis pro -vides every Varsity Scout team with interesting andchallenging physical activities. Through the effortsof the program manager and adult advisers, team

members can become skilled in activities rangingfrom snow camping to soccer. Once the team com-pletes its training, it can plan and take part in high-adventure opportunities and/or sports activities.

The High-Adventure/Sports Program ManagerThe high-adventure/sports program manager who,while working closely with an adult (the High Ad-venture/Sports Program Advisor), will take respon-sibility for overseeing the high-adventure/sportsactivities of a Varsity Scout team.

The Varsity Scout team captain, with the approvalof the Coach, appoints the high-adventure/sportsprogram manager who will take responsibility fordoing the following:

Helping choose the high-adventure/ sports activities in which the team willparticipate

Planning and conducting activities Maintaining a schedule Develop and update a list of experts

who can serve as consultants Coordinating any events Informing team members

The Varsity ScoutOutdoor ProgramThe place whereVarsity Scoutingworks best is alsowhere most youngmen want to be inthe outdoors. Theoutdoor program isthe name of the game.Without outdoor

activities, many Varsity Scout teams will struggle,and some may fail. Varsity Scouting without outingis like swimming without water it is difcult to besuccessful. Here are just a few of the reasons a strong outdoorprogram is important to the health of a Varsity Scoutteam:

The outdoors is a classroom that isideal for teaching and learning Scout-ing skills.

When Varsity Scouts hike, cook andeat together, while sharing the chal-lenges of outdoor living, they will learnto practice patience, respect the pointsof view of others, and develop lasting

friendships. Leadership comes to life in the out-

doors. The outdoors is where adventure

awaits. Activites such as backpacking,cycling, shing, orienteering, and rockclimbing are some of Varsity Scout -ings best adventures. At a minimum,Varsity Scouts should spend at least10 days and nights outdoors each year.Among the opportunities for makingthat happen are: Squad and team hikes Short-term camping Resident camping Camporees and jamborees National and council high-

adventure bases Additional suggestions are

found in the Varsity GuideBook

Resources for a High-Adventure Program

The manager and other team leaders of a VarsityScout high-adventure/sports program can draw onthe outdoor knowledge and program support of many people. Begin with those already associatedwith the team including parents, team committeemembers, assistant Coaches, members of the char -tered organization, and registered merit badge coun -selors. A teams Scouting district is a good source.Coaches will encounter many of these people atroundtable meetings, where they can share ideas forrunning effective outdoor programs.

Varsity Scout Team success in any Varsity Scoutingactivity requires adequate, well-trained leadership. Itis especially important to take all reasonable precau -tions to prevent accidents and uphold Boy Scouts of America standards.

The best available adult leadership should be re -cruited to accompany each team during high-ad-venture activities. In accordance with BSA YouthProtection guidelines, a team must have a minimum

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of two adultleaders, eachone physicallyt and regis -tered as adultmembers of theBoy Scouts of America. Oneleader must be atleast 21 years of age. The secondleader must be

at least 18 years old. If Scouts are being transportedto another location, tour permit provisions must befollowed.

Leave No Trace Principles Plan Ahead and Prepare

Know the regulations

Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Durable surfaces include established

trails and campsites, rock, gravel, drygrasses, and snow

Protect riparian areas by camping atleast 200 feet from lakes and streams

Dispose of Waste Properly (Pack It In, PackIt Out)

Inspect your campsite and rest areas

for trash or spilled foods. Pack out alltrash, leftover food, and litter Deposit solid human waste in catholes

dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feetfrom water, camp, and trails. When n -ished, cover and disguise as a cathole

Dispose of toilet paper appropriately orpack it out

Leave What You Find Preserve the past. Examine, but do not -

touch, cultural or historic structures andartifacts

Minimize Campre Impacts Avoid campres. They can cause last -

ing impacts on the backcountry Where res are permitted, use estab -

lished re rings, re pans, or moundres

Respect Wildlife Observe wildlife from a distance Never feed wild animals Protect wildlife and your food by stor -

ing rations and trash securely

7. Personal Development Fieldof EmphasisVarsity Scouting uses team and individual activitiesto encourage worthwhile personal development. Forthat reason, personal development is one of the veelds of emphasis of every Varsity Scout team.

The Personal Development ManagerThe personal development manager has a positionevery bit as important as those of the managers of

the other elds of empha -sis. He is responsible forhelping team membersmake the most of oppor-tunities to further theirpersonal development. Todo that, the manager must

clearly understand theareas of personal devel-

opment and the ways in which team members canaddress each one.

Position Description: Personal DevelopmentManagerThe personal development manager is appointed bythe Varsity Scout team captain, with the approval of the team Coach. Working closely with an adult (thepersonal development program adviser), the man-

ager takes responsibility for doing the following: Planning and coordinating team

activties in all ve areas of personaldevelopment

Communicating with team members todetermine special needs

Locating speakers or consultants Working with the other four program

managers to coordinate activities Keeping informed on community

activities of interest to the team Setting a good example for fellow team

members

Five areas of Personal DevelopmentThe ve areas of personal development recognizedand encouraged by Varsity Scouting are:

Spiritual Development Leadership Citizenship Social and Cultural Attributes Physical Fitness

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8. Service Field of EmphasisService is at the heart of every Varsity Scout team.Through service, team members can experience thesatisfaction of making a difference in the world.Whether it is an individual Scout assisting a meals-on-wheels program or an entire team planting treesalong a community street, the opportunities the

Varsity Scout program accomplish prepare Scouts tomake service a guiding principle in their lives.

The Service Program MangerEach Varsity Scout team has a service programmanager who is responsible for encouraging and co -ordinating the teams service activities. The serviceprogram manager keeps track of projects undertakenby the team as a whole and by various squads, andalso charts the efforts of individual team members.The individual helps every Varsity Scout develop a

service-oriented way of life and encourages all thoseinvolved with the team to practice the habit of doinga Good Turn daily.

The service program manager is appointed by theVarsity Scout team captain, with the approval of theCoach. Working closely with an adult (the serviceprogram adviser), the manager takes responsibilityfor doing the following:

Coordinating team andindividual service activities

Encouraging Varsity Scouts to developand maintain a service-oriented way of life

Communicating with team members Working with other program managers

to maximize the effectiveness of service opportunities

Planning and conducting serviceprojects and activities

Community ServiceThroughout its history, Boy Scout members haveprovided service to others. Service often occurs insmall, unassuming ways. It happens on a largerscale, too, when a squad or an entire team seesa need and steps forward with a solution. Teamservice projects encourage Varsity Scouts to realizethat they have the ability to make positive changesin their communities. Varsity Scout service proj -ects benet others and build character and goodcitizenship in team members. In many ways, serviceprojects are Varsity Scouting at its best.

9. Special Programs andEvents Field of EmphasisVarsity Scouting offers team members excellentteam oriented activities for advancement, adven-ture, and achievement as Varsity Scouts take part inevents and special programs at the district, council,and national levels. A special program or event caninvolve more than one team. From backcountryhigh adventure to college scholarships, the eventsand programs of Scouting can enrich the Varsityexperience for everyone on the team.

The special programs and events program manageris responsible for helping team members take fulladvantage of opportunities outside of a teams localactivities. The manager seeks out information aboutwhat is available in the district, the council, and atScoutings national level, and encourages team lead-ers and members to make the most of them.

Position Description: Special Programs andEvents Program ManagerThe special programs and events program manageris appointed by the Varsity Scout team captain withthe approval of the coach. Working closely with anadult (the service program adviser), the managertakes responsibility for doing the following:

Coordinating special programs andevents for the team

Communicating with team members todetermine their needs

Cooperating with other programmanagers to maximize the effectivenessof programs and events

Gathering and sharing informationabout district, council, and nationalspecial events

Setting a good example for fellow teammembers

District and Council Programs and EventsMost special events and programs involving a Varsi-ty Scout team will be those conducted by the teamsdistrict and council. The Varsity Scout Coach willreceive information about most of these throughthe mail and at district roundtables attended by thecoaches of other Varsity Scout teams.

Council CamporeesInformation about these events can be found at localcouncil service centers.

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RendezvousIn the 1800s, a rendezvous was a gathering of moun-tain men who camped in one place and passed thetime with contests, tall tales, and sharing of informa-tion. Today, some districts and councils organizea rendezvous for Varsity Scout teams. Activitiesmay include traditional skills such as int knapping,tracking, and ring black powder ries.

Varsity Scout SportsWhen Varsity Scout teams select a sport as their

high-adventure/ sports eld of em -phasis (anythingfrom basketball orvolleyball to bowlingor golf), they maynd that their coun -cil or district is in aposition to organizesporting events andtournaments involv-ing teams formthroughout the dis-trict or council.

Operation On-Target Operation On-Target is an annual event which helpsteams, districts, and councils nd ways that they

can work together. This event which is usually heldduring the summer allows teams to physically signaleach other from mountain peaks with mirrors. Theevent was originally designed by Varsity leaders inthe western United States to share their light (phi-losophies and beliefs) with each other regardless of time, distance, and space. Additional informationregarding this even can be found on the internet,www.ontargetbsa.org.

Council Summer Camp Staff

Hundreds of BSA camps throughout America of-fer exciting summer programs. Varsity Scouts willnd that serving on a summer camp staff providestremendous opportunities to enhance their leader-ship skills, learn the art of teaching, and to be in anoutdoor environment for weeks at a time. Councilswith high-adventure programs may also have staff opportunities. Information and applications areavailable at local council service centers.

10. Team MeetingsWeekly meetings are the glue that holds a VarsityScout team together. Planned by the captain, theprogram managers, squad leaders, and the teamscoach, well-planned meetings run by the youththemselves can be full of excitement and satisfac -tion. Team meetings are usually built around team

activities such as rock climbing, camping, and cross-country skiing. An exciting portion of each meetingis the skills instruction that prepares Varsity Scoutsfor challenging team activities based on a programfeature.

Team meetings serve many purposes, including thefollowing:

Motivating Members Strengthening Squads Exchanging Information

Promoting Team Spirit Learning and Practicing Scouting Skills Exercising Leadership

Implementing Leadership through Team Meet-ingsThe Varsity Scouts themselves take major roles inplanning, conducting, and assessing the success of team meetings. Leadership is a skill that Scouts canlearn only by leading and team meetings serve asregular occasions for that to happen.

Varsity Scout teams should get together every weekfor a meeting, an activity, or a combination of thetwo. Meetings should occur at the same time everyweek so that boys and their families can schedule ef -ciently, However, if a team has a campout or otherweekend activity, the team leaders may sometimesdecide to cancel a meeting the following week.

Except for the Coachs Corner during the closing,each section of a team meeting is the responsibilityof the Varsity Scouts themselves. With the guid-ance of the Coach, team meetings are planned wellin advance by the captain, the program managers,and squad leaders. The captain may assign squadsor individuals to take care of various sections of a meeting, giving as many Scouts as possible theopportunity to contribute. The Varsity Scout TeamMeeting Plan Worksheet provides the frameworkfor efcient, well-run meetings. A copy of themeeting plan and the Varsity Scout Team ActivityPlanning Worksheet can be found in the appendix of this play book.

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The Varsity Scout Team Meeting Plan in Action Warm-UpThe preopening activity should be ready tostart about 15 minutes before the scheduledbeginning of the meeting. OpeningThe captain calls the meeting to order at theappointed time. Team BusinessThis is the time for the entire team to bebrought up-to-date on plans for upcomingactivities. Team Activity/Skills InstructionThe majority of the time during a VarsityScout team meeting will be devoted to teamactivities. Closing (Coachs Corner)This is a good time to praise team membersfor Good Turns and other tasks well done.The heart of the closing is the CoachsCorner, an opportunity for the Coach to sharea story based on Scoutings values. Wrap-Up

Evaluating Varsity Scout Team MeetingsWas a team meeting successful? After the meeting,the Coach and captain can gather with the programmanagers and squad leaders to evaluate the successof the meeting.

Tips for Conducting Effective Team MeetingsTeam Meeting Must Have Variety, Action, and

Purpose: Meetings can and should take place

outdoors Arrive early to be prepared The captain takes the lead Start on time, end on time Use the scout sign whenever necessary Use hands-on learning Follow the meeting plan Praise goes a long way

11. Other MeetingsIn addition to weekly team meetings, the VarsityScout program includes the following gatherings.

Team Leaders Training SeminarOnce a year the leadership of the team should con-duct a training conference to train new team leaders.The Coach and the team captain are key players inthis effort, drawing on other resources as needed.(See chapter 14 of the Varsity Guide Book for adetailed outline on training new leaders).

Program Planning ClinicOnce a year the Varsity Scout teams leadershipmeets to review the program activities of the pre-vious 12 months and put into place preliminaryprogram plans for the upcoming year. Many teamscombine their program planning clinic with the teamleaders training seminar into a weekend event.

Parents NightFamily members will also want to be kept up-to-dateon team plans, and they may have many questionsregarding expenses, safety factors, and scheduling.

Courts of HonorA court of honor pays tribute to those who havemade signicant progress in Varsity Scouting, andit can help family and friends of Varsity Scoutsbetter understand the team and feel more involvedwith the Scouting movement. With the help of theteams adult advancement adviser, the advancementprogram manager is responsible for maintainingadvancement records, scheduling boards of review,and overseeing the planning of award nights.

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12. Awards and Recognitions

BSA awards and recognitions provide VarsityScouts and adult team leaders with visible emblemsof their accomplishments. Varsity Scouts can con-tinue to progress towards Boy Scout merit badgesand rank advancements as they earn the Varsityletter, bars, activity pins, and the Denali award, re -served only for members of Varsity Scout Teams.

Varsity Scout LetterTo earn the Varsity Scout Letter, a Varsity Scoutand an adult leader must do the following:1. Be a registered Varsity Scout team member.2. While a team member, actively participate in or

accomplish at least one high-adventure/sportsprogram to the satisfaction of the Varsity ScoutCoach.

3. Have an attendance record at team meetingsand activities of at least 75 percent for threeconsecutive months.

4. Know and live by the Scout Oath and Law.

The Varsity Scout letter may be awarded at the com -

pletion of the high-adventure program or at a Courtof Honor when all of the requirements have been ac -complished. The letter can be attached to a VarsityScout jacket or on the bottom of a merit badge sash.

Gold Letter BarRecipients may wear a gold bar on the letter to rep -resent each additional letter that they earn. A youngman can earn as many as three Letter Bars duringhis Varsity experience.

Activity PinsActivity pins can also be awarded at Varsity Scoutmeetings, at the completion of each ultimate adven-

ture, or at a Court of Honor. Activity pins can bepurchased at a Council Service Center or orderedonline (www.scoutstuff.org). There may not be anactivity pin for a unique activity that your team hascreated. In this case, a special pin may be designedby your local unit, district, or council.

Denali AwardThe Denali Award is available to Varsity Scoutswho have earned the Varsity Scout letter. The re-quirements for the award are:

1. Be a registered Varsity Scout Team member.2. Advance one rank toward Eagle. If you are

already an Eagle Scout, earn a Palm award.3. Hold leadership positions on a Varsity Scout

Team for at least six months.4. (a) While serving as Team Captain or a Pro-

gram Manager, act as primary leader on atleast two activities. Program Managers shouldchoose activities in their eld of emphasis.Team Captains may be primary leaders of ac -tivities in any of the elds of emphasis.(b) While serving as a Program Manager orTeam Captain, demonstrate shared leadershipskills by participating in supportive roles ineach of the three remaining three elds of em -phasis.

5. Show the Team Captain that you know and liveby the Varsity Scout Pledge.

6. Complete a board of review by the team com -mittee with a district/council representative.

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13. Other Awards for VarsityScouts and LeadersTemporary PatchesThe right pocket of the scout shirt is reserved for

embroidered emblems earned by taking part indistrict, council, and national BSA activities, includ-

ing camporees, summer camps, and treks at high-adventure bases. Only one temporary patch may beworn at a time. One exception is the patch earned byattending a national or world jamboree. It is worn onthe uniform shirt above the right pocket, and may beworn in addition to a correctly positioned temporarypatch.

Trained Leader

This emblem is available to all adult leaders whohave completed the Fast Start and basic trainingprograms appropriate to their positions. The embroi -dered emblem is worn on the left sleeve immedi -ately below and touching the emblem of the ofcefor which it was earned.

Varsity Scout youth leaders who have completedVarsity junior leader training and den chiefs whohave completed the den chief training conferencemay wear the Trained Leader emblem beneath their

badge of ofce. The Trained Leader emblem may beworn only in connection with the emblem of ofcefor which training has been completed.

Awards for AdultsAwards and recognitions intended for adult BSAmembers fall into two categories, those that can beearned and those that are bestowed.

Bestowed awards and recognitions are granted toadult leaders on the basis of their service, activities,

and other efforts in keeping with the spirit of Scout-ing. Among the many bestowed honors are the Sil -ver Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, DistrictAward of Merit, George Meany and Whitney M.Young Jr. Service awards.

Requirements for badges that an adult Varsity Scoutteam leader may earn can be found in BSA litera -ture associated with each award. These recognitionsinclude the following.

Service Stars, Attendance Pins, and VeteransScouter PinsThese are recognitions for length of tenure with theBoy Scouts of America.

National Presidents Varsity Scout Coach Awardof MeritThis award can be earned by all Varsity ScoutCoaches. See application at Council Service Center.

Varsity Scout Leaders Training Award /CoachesKeyThis award recognizes training, tenure, and perfor-mance. See application at Council Service Centers.(Varsity Guidebook Appendix A-20) Wood Badge Neckerchief, Beads, and Woggle Leaders who have completed a council certiedWood Badge course may wear the neckerchief,

beads, and woggle. The Wood Badge course, con -sisting of approximately 6 days of course work andthe fulllment of 5 Scout related goals or tickets,is an excellent way to understand all of the familiesof scouting and how scouting functions. Adult Var-sity scout leaders should attend this course duringtheir rst year of service.

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14. The Uniform and InsigniaThe Varsity Scout uniform has long served as anexpression of team spirit and unity. Wearing theuniform promotes comradeship, loyalty to onesteam, and public recognition of membership in theBoy Scouts of America.

A Varsity Scout is not required to have a uniformin order to be amember of a team.Varsity Scout teamleaders should seta good exampleby wearing thecomplete uniformthemselves andby encouraging

each Scout to acquire and wear their uniform. Newuniforms may be purchased from ofcial Scoutingdistributors located in selected retail stores, localcouncil service centers, Scout shops, and from theBSA Supply Division catalogue.

The Varsity Scout Uniform Long sleeved or short sleeved scout

shirt Short sleeved golf shirt with the Varsity

emblem Scout pants or shorts

Scout socks BSA twill or mesh baseball cap Scout belt and buckle Scout neckerchief (team option)

Two additions to the Varsity Scout uniform make itdifferent from the Boy Scout uniform: Varsity Scout Shoulder loop. Every

Varsity Scout and scout leader shouldwear the blaze orange shoulder loopson the long or short sleeved scout shirt.

Varsity strip. The red-on-tan clothVarsity strip may be worn above theright pocket of the scout shirt. Positionit above the BSA strip.

Varsity teams are encouraged to design an activityshirt which identies their team members which canbe worn in the eld and at certain functions. Thisshirt may be a t-shirt or golf shirt. It may be com -bined with scout pants, shorts or long pants to givethe team a consistent look.

15. ConclusionTime invested in planning a Varsity Scout programwill be repaid many times over by providing Scoutswith meaningful and exciting activities. Good plan-ning allows Varsity Scouts to lead the team as theydraft their own annual plan and then see to it that theplan succeeds.

Coaches and team leaders will nd that by follow -ing the planning steps that have been discussed,youth members will understand the Varsity Scoutprogram. All ve program elds of emphasis shouldbe included in a program every quarter. To helpensure a strong program, the team committee shoulddevote a portion of its monthly meetings to secur-ing the support of committee members for the teamprogram managers.

Dont forget to review several important documentswhich follow as an appendix to this Playbook. Theycan also be found in the Varsity Scout Guide Bookand will help to ensure the success of your team.Please review page 19i often. It details the require-ments which your Varsity Team would need tofulll to receive the National Quality Unit Award.These requirements will help your teams leadersdetermine the things that they need to do to run asuccessful Varsity Program.

This Play Book has been designed to give newlyappointed Varsity Scout leaders (both youth andadults) a quick look and basic training into the Var -sity program. Additional information may be gainedfrom many sources including the BSA Varsity ScoutGuide Book. Now it is time to get started!

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Assistant Coach: Helps the Coach and lls in whenthe Coach is absent

Captain: the youth leader of a Varsity Scout team

Chartered organization: A religious, civic, fraternal,educational, or other community-based organizationthat has applied for and received a charter to operate aBSA Scouting unit

Coach: The adult leader of a Varsity Scout team

Coaches Corner: A short thought typically given atthe close of an activity by the coach

Co captain: assistant to the team captain

Commissioner: A volunteer Scouter who works withpacks, troops, teams, and crews to help them succeed

Council: An administrative body chartered to beresponsible for Scouting in a a designated georgraphicterritory

District: A geographic area within a local council

District executive: A professional Scouter who isemployed by a council

Fields of emphasis: The Varsity Scouting programselds of emphasis encourage team members to exploremany facets of the Scouting experience. Fully includ-ing each eld in a teams program is the responsibilityof the youth leaders, known as a program managers.The ve elds of emphasis, each of equal importance,are advancement, high adventure/sports, personal de-velopment, service, and special programs and events

Huddle: A meeting where team Coaches learn about

programs and share ideas. These are usually held on adistrict or council level

Program: An activity chosen by Varsity Team lead -ership to learn new skills and experience high-adven-ture activities. A fully completed program will includeparticipation in the ve elds of emphasis.

Program adviser: An adult who works with the pro-gram manager of one of the ve elds of emphasis

Program manager: A Varsity Scout who supervisesone of the ve elds of emphasis

Roundtable: A meeting, usually held on the districtor council level, where Coaches of several VarsityScout teams can share ideas and learn more about BSAprograms

Squad: An organized group of varsity Scouts withina team, similar in structure to a patrol in a Boy Scouttroop

Squad leader: A Varsity Scout who is appointed orelected to head up a squad

Team: The unit of Varsity Scouts and adult leaders

Team committee: A group of adults who providesupport to the Coach and may serve as program advis-ers. A trained (strong) committee can greatly reducethe work required by the teams adult leadership.

Varsity Awards:

Varsity Letter: This award can be earned by youthand adults with a 75% activity level for threeconsecutive months of a Varsity experi-ence. The V shaped award is placed on an

orange-colored windbreaker which can be purchasedat a council store.

Gold Letter Bar: This award, earned by youth andadults who complete the requirementsfor a Varsity Letter, is pinned to the

V shaped Varsity Letter on the Varsity Scout jacket.Multiple bars can be earned during the varsity experi -ence.

Activities Pins: Activity pins, earned by youth and

adults, are pinned to the V shapedVarsity Letter at the completion of aprogram. Multiple pins can be placedon the letter.

Denali Award: This award is earned by VarsityScouts after they have completed severalprograms with their Varsity Team. It is thehighest award that a Varsity Scout can earn.

Glossary of Varsity Scouting Terms

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APPENDIX


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Varsity Letter Scorecard

Name____________________________________ Team No. ________________________

1. Be a registered Varsity Scout.

Date registered___________________ Signed by____________________________________ Coach

2. While a Varsity Scout, actively participate in or accomplish at least one high-adventure/sports pro-

gram to the satisfaction of the Varsity Scout Coach.

Activity______________________________ Date_________ Signed by__________________________ Coach

3. Attendance75 percent or more attendance at Varsity Scout meetings for 3 consecutive months.

From _______________ to ___________________ Signed by __________________________________ date date Coach

4. Know and live by the Scout Oath and Law.

Signed by _________________________________ Coach

Note: Appendix A-18 in the Varsity Guide Book is not accurate. The current re-quirements can also be found on the Varsity Scouting webpage.

ALL REQUIREMENTS COMPLETEDDate _____________________

Signed by___________________________________ Coach Coach

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Varsity Denali Scorecard


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National Quality Unit Award

One measure of a Varsity Scout teams success is fullling the requirements for a NationalQuality Unit Award. Six out of 10 objectives must be achieved during a calendar year, includ -ing four that are required:

Training.* The Varsity Scout team Coach will complete Varsity Scout leader Fast Starttraining and Varsity Scout Leader Fundamentals.

Two-deep leadership.* The team will have one or more assistant Coaches registered,trained, and active. One registered adult is assigned responsibility for Youth Protectiontraining.

Program plan. The team will conduct an annual program planning conference, publishan annual program calendar, and present it to parents at a family activity.

Service Project. The Varsity Scout team will conduct a service project annually, prefer -ably for the chartered organization or the community.

Boys Life. Subscriptions to Boys Life will go into the homes of all Varsity Scout mem -bers, or subscriptions for the team will increase 10 percent over the previous year.

Varsity Scout letter. Fifty percent or more of the team will have earned a Varsity Scoutletter.

Outdoor activities.* The Varsity Scout team will participate in at least one organizedleague sport or participate in at least one ultimate adventure.

Membership. The team will renew its charter with an equal or greater number of youthregistered over the previous year.

Youth leadership. The team captain and squad leaders will participate in your leadershiptraining at least once during the year.

On-time charter renewal.* The team will complete its charter renewal before its currentcharter expires.

*One of four mandatory requirements

For additional information regarding Quality Unit qualications, refer to District and Councilleadership.

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Documents

Varsity Playbook