Sports Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: Several months
Difficulty: Easy, Moderate
Setting: Fields, courts, gym
Best For: Scouts interested in sports, fitness, teamwork
Hands-On Level: High
Eagle Required: No

When you work on the Sports merit badge, you learn how sports can help you stay active and healthy. You explore different types of sports and discover how regular physical activity benefits your body and mind. Along the way, you set goals, improve your skills, and learn the value of consistent practice.

As you complete the requirements, you also learn about teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership. Whether you play on a team or compete as an individual, you see how respect, fair play, and a positive attitude make sports more enjoyable for everyone. These lessons can help you in school, Scouting, and everyday life.

The Sports merit badge gives you the chance to take part in activities you enjoy while learning new skills. You can try a new sport or focus on one you already know. By staying active and challenging yourself, you build confidence, develop healthy habits, and learn skills that can last a lifetime.

Sports Merit Badge Requirements

Sports Merit Badge Pamphlet

Sports Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Sports Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Sports merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Safety
• Requirement 2: Health
• Requirement 3: Training
• Requirement 4: Sports
• Requirement 5: Participation
• Requirement 6: Careers and Opportunities
• More Resources

Note: The activities used to fulfill the requirements for the Sports merit badge may not be used to help fulfill requirements for other merit badges.

Scouting America has prohibited as official Scouting activities intramural, interscholastic, or club-sport competitions or activities. However, they can be acceptable for your individual participation in an organized school, league, or club activity if approved by your counselor.

Requirement 1a: Sports Safety Risks

What You Need To Do

Talk with your counselor about common sports risks. Describe ways to prepare for them, prevent injuries, reduce their impact, and respond when they happen.

Helpful Tips

• Wear the correct safety equipment for your sport.
• Check helmets, pads, and other gear before using them.
• Warm up before practices and games.
• Stretch after activity to help muscles recover.
• Follow the rules of the sport.
• Pay attention to coaches, officials, and safety instructions.
• Drink water before, during, and after activity.
• Take breaks when weather is hot or humid.
• Stop playing if you feel pain, dizziness, or weakness.
• Report injuries right away to an adult, coach, or trainer.
• Stay aware of other players, equipment, and field conditions.
• Keep emergency contact information available during activities.

Resources

• Sports Injuries and Prevention (video)
• Preventing Sports Injuries in Children (video)
• Safety Tips – Popular Sports (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss risks from sports Scouts actually play.
• Use real examples from practices, games, or camp activities.
• Review safety equipment and proper fit.
• Encourage Scouts to share ways they stay safe during sports.

Requirement 1b: First Aid For Sports Injuries

What You Need To Do

Show your counselor that you know basic first aid for common sports injuries. Be ready to describe treatment steps for each type of injury listed in the requirement.

Helpful Tips

• Treat sprains and strains with rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
• Stretch cramped muscles gently and drink fluids for muscle cramps.
• Apply a cold pack to contusions, which are bruises.
• Clean abrasions with clean water and cover them with a bandage.
• Protect blisters with a bandage or blister pad.
• Drink water and rest in a cool area for dehydration.
• Move a person with heat exhaustion to shade and help cool the body.
• Call emergency services immediately for heat stroke.
• Keep a suspected fracture still and support it until help arrives.
• Place a knocked-out tooth in milk and get dental care quickly.
• Do not move someone with a possible head, neck, or back injury.
• Watch for concussion symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, or balance problems.
• Remove an athlete from play after a suspected concussion.
• Seek medical evaluation for any suspected concussion.

Resources

• Strains, Tears, and Sprains (video)
• First Aid for Fractures (video)
• Dehydration (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate first aid skills whenever possible.
• Use scenarios so Scouts can practice responses.
• Emphasize when emergency medical help is needed.
• Review current first aid guidelines before instruction.

Requirement 2a: Physical Exams

What You Need To Do

Explain why physical exams are important for people who participate in sports. Include how physical exams help protect health and safety before athletic activities.

Helpful Tips

• A physical exam checks your overall health.
• Doctors check your heart, lungs, joints, and muscles.
• Medical conditions can be identified before sports participation.
• Physical exams help reduce the risk of injury.
• Doctors can discuss previous injuries and recovery.
• Vision and hearing may be checked during an exam.
• Vaccination records may be reviewed.
• A physical exam helps determine if sports participation is safe.
• Many schools and sports leagues require physical exams.
• Regular checkups help track changes in health over time.

Resources

• Annual Physical Exam (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to discuss sports physicals they have completed.
• Review common parts of a physical exam.
• Connect physical exams to injury prevention.
• Keep discussions focused on health and safety.

Requirement 2b: Healthy Habits And Harmful Substances

What You Need To Do

Explain why healthy habits are important throughout life. Include how tobacco, alcohol, and other harmful substances affect health and sports performance.

Helpful Tips

• Regular exercise strengthens muscles and bones.
• Physical activity improves endurance and fitness.
• Good sleep helps the body recover after activity.
• Healthy habits support long-term health.
• Tobacco reduces lung function and makes breathing harder.
• Smoking can lower athletic performance.
• Alcohol affects balance, judgment, and reaction time.
• Alcohol increases the risk of sports injuries.
• Harmful drugs can damage muscles, organs, and the brain.
• Substance use can interfere with training and recovery.
• Good health habits support energy and physical performance.
• Healthy choices help athletes stay active and competitive.

Resources

• Benefits of Playing Sports (video)

Leader Tips

• Focus on facts about health and performance.
• Encourage questions about healthy lifestyle choices.
• Use age-appropriate examples from sports.
• Reinforce positive habits Scouts can practice every day.

Requirement 2c: Healthy Diet

What You Need To Do

Explain why a healthy diet is important for sports and daily life. Include how good nutrition supports energy, growth, and recovery.

Helpful Tips

• Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins and minerals.
• Protein helps build and repair muscles.
• Lean meats, eggs, beans, and nuts are good protein sources.
• Whole grains provide long-lasting energy.
• Water helps regulate body temperature.
• Proper hydration supports athletic performance.
• Healthy meals help the body recover after exercise.
• Balanced meals include foods from different food groups.
• Sugary snacks provide short-term energy but little nutrition.
• Frequent junk food can reduce overall diet quality.
• Good nutrition supports growth and development.
• Healthy eating habits can continue throughout life.

Resources

• How To Manage Your Mood With Food (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss simple examples of balanced meals.
• Connect nutrition to sports performance and recovery.
• Encourage Scouts to review their daily food choices.
• Keep the discussion practical and easy to apply.

Requirement 3a: Warming Up And Cooling Down

What You Need To Do

Discuss why warming up before activity and cooling down afterward are important parts of sports participation.

Helpful Tips

• A warm-up increases blood flow to muscles.
• Warm muscles move more easily during activity.
• Warming up can reduce the risk of injury.
• Light jogging or dynamic movements are common warm-up activities.
• A cool-down helps the body return to a resting state gradually.
• Cooling down lowers heart rate over several minutes.
• Stretching is often included during a cool-down.
• Cooling down can help reduce muscle soreness.
• Warm-ups and cool-downs should match the sport or activity.
• These routines are useful before and after practices and games.

Resources

• Stretching and Warming Up (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate simple warm-up and cool-down routines.
• Connect these habits to injury prevention.
• Use examples from sports Scouts participate in.
• Encourage Scouts to make these activities part of every workout.

Requirement 3b: Weight Training

What You Need To Do

Discuss why weight training is important for athletes and how it can improve sports performance when done correctly.

Helpful Tips

• Weight training helps build muscle strength.
• Stronger muscles support joints during activity.
• Strength training can improve athletic performance.
• Many sports use weight training as part of conditioning.
• Proper form is important during every exercise.
• Start with lighter weights and increase gradually.
• Rest days allow muscles to recover.
• Weight training can improve endurance and power.
• A warm-up should be done before lifting weights.
• Adult supervision is important when using weight equipment.

Resources

• Benefits of Strength Training (website)

Leader Tips

• Focus on safe training habits and proper technique.
• Discuss age-appropriate strength training activities.
• Emphasize the importance of supervision.
• Connect strength training to sports performance and injury prevention.

Requirement 3c: Amateur And Professional Athletes

What You Need To Do

Discuss what an amateur athlete is and compare amateur athletes with professional athletes.

Helpful Tips

• Amateur athletes participate without being paid to compete.
• School athletes are usually amateurs.
• Many community and recreational athletes are amateurs.
• Professional athletes earn money from their sport.
• Professional athletes may receive salaries, contracts, or endorsements.
• Many professionals train full-time.
• Amateur athletes often balance sports with school or work.
• Both amateur and professional athletes follow rules and training programs.
• Both groups compete to improve their skills and performance.
• Sports can be enjoyable and rewarding at either level.

Resources

• What Is an Amateur (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Use examples Scouts can easily recognize.
• Compare training schedules and responsibilities.
• Discuss different paths athletes may follow.
• Keep the focus on participation and personal growth.

Requirement 3d: Sportsmanship And Teamwork

What You Need To Do

Discuss the qualities of a good sport, the importance of sportsmanship, and the traits of a good leader and team player who shows Scout spirit.

Helpful Tips

• Good sports follow the rules of the game.
• Respect should be shown to teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials.
• Good sports accept wins and losses respectfully.
• Honesty is important during competition.
• Team players support and encourage others.
• Good leaders set a positive example.
• Responsibility helps teams function effectively.
• Cooperation helps teams reach common goals.
• A positive attitude can improve team morale.
• Scout spirit includes being trustworthy, helpful, friendly, and kind.
• Sportsmanship helps create a fair and enjoyable environment.
• Respect for others is important both on and off the field.

Resources

• Good Sportsmanship Discussion Points (website)
• What Is Good Sportsmanship? (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss real examples of good sportsmanship.
• Encourage Scouts to connect sportsmanship with the Scout Law.
• Highlight positive leadership behaviors.
• Recognize teamwork and respectful conduct during activities.

Requirement 4: Choose Your Sports

What You Need To Do

Choose two approved sports and discuss them with your counselor. You must select sports that include regular practices and at least four organized competitions against other individuals or teams during your participation period.

Helpful Tips

• Choose sports you already play or want to try.
• Get your counselor’s approval before starting.
• Some sports have seasons that make it easier to meet the requirements.
• Keep track of practices, games, meets, or contests.
• Record dates and results as you participate.
• You need regular practice sessions, not just competitions.
• At least four competitions must be structured and scored.
• Competitions should have officials, judges, referees, or other organizers when appropriate.
• Team sports and individual sports can both be used.
• Check with your counselor before choosing a sport not listed in the requirement.
• Sports prohibited by Scouting America cannot be used.
• Good records will make later requirements easier to complete.

Leader Tips

• Review the Scout’s sports choices early in the process.
• Confirm that each sport meets the participation requirements.
• Encourage Scouts to keep accurate records of practices and competitions.
• Help Scouts plan ahead so they can complete all requirements during the sports season.

Requirement 5a: Personal Training Program

What You Need To Do

Work with your counselor to create a training program for your two sports. Follow the program throughout your season or for at least three months.

Helpful Tips

• Include regular practice sessions in your plan.
• Set goals that match your sport and skill level.
• Schedule exercise, training, and recovery time.
• Include warm-ups and cool-downs.
• Make your plan realistic and manageable.
• Follow the plan consistently.
• Adjust the schedule if injuries or conflicts occur.
• Record your progress during the season.
• Focus on gradual improvement.
• Review your goals regularly.

Resources

• How To PUSH UP (video)
• How To PULL UP (video)
• How To SQUAT (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts create realistic training plans.
• Encourage goals that can be measured.
• Review progress during the season.
• Emphasize consistency over intensity.

Requirement 5b: Training Records

What You Need To Do

Create a chart or tracking system and record your training, practices, and progress throughout the season or three-month period.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a tracking method you will use regularly.
• Record practice dates and times.
• Include workouts and conditioning sessions.
• Track competitions and results.
• Write down goals and progress.
• Record improvements in skills or performance.
• Update your chart soon after each activity.
• Keep records organized and easy to read.
• Save all information until the requirement is complete.
• Bring your records to meetings with your counselor.

Resources

• 7 Powerful Journaling Ideas for Youth Sports Athletes (website)

Leader Tips

• Review tracking systems before Scouts begin.
• Encourage regular updates.
• Focus on accurate records.
• Remind Scouts to save their charts throughout the season.

Requirement 5c: Proper Technique

What You Need To Do

Demonstrate proper techniques for both of your chosen sports. Show skills that help you participate effectively and safely.

Helpful Tips

• Practice basic skills regularly.
• Follow instructions from coaches and trainers.
• Use proper body position during activities.
• Focus on control before speed.
• Good technique can reduce injuries.
• Practice movements correctly from the beginning.
• Ask for feedback during practices.
• Watch demonstrations from qualified instructors.
• Use proper form during drills.
• Review techniques throughout the season.

Leader Tips

• Observe Scouts demonstrating key skills.
• Encourage safe movements and proper form.
• Use coaches as resources when available.
• Focus on safety as well as performance.

Requirement 5d: Equipment

What You Need To Do

List the equipment needed for each sport. Include protective gear and any special clothing used during participation.

Helpful Tips

• Identify equipment used during practices.
• Include equipment used during competitions.
• List required protective gear.
• Include helmets, pads, guards, or mouthguards when applicable.
• Describe the purpose of each item.
• Include uniforms or specialized clothing.
• Check equipment regularly for damage.
• Replace worn or broken equipment.
• Use equipment that fits properly.
• Follow sport-specific safety requirements.

Resources

• Equipment Needed To Play Various Sports (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to examine actual equipment.
• Discuss equipment safety and maintenance.
• Review protective gear requirements.
• Emphasize proper fit and condition.

Requirement 5e: Rules And Etiquette

What You Need To Do

List the rules and proper etiquette for each of your chosen sports. Explain how participants are expected to behave during competition.

Helpful Tips

• Learn the basic rules of each sport.
• Review scoring methods.
• Know common penalties and violations.
• Follow instructions from officials.
• Respect opponents during competition.
• Show good sportsmanship at all times.
• Arrive prepared and on time.
• Follow team and league expectations.
• Avoid arguing with officials.
• Support teammates in a positive manner.

Resources

• Rules of Basketball (video)
• How To Play Golf (video)
• Rules of Soccer (video)
• How To Participate in Cheerleading Competitions (video)
• Baseball Basics (video)
• Rules of Fencing (video)
• American Football Rules (video)
• How To Play Volleyball (video)
• Rules of Ice Hockey (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss sportsmanship along with rules.
• Encourage Scouts to use official rule sources.
• Review common violations.
• Connect etiquette to the Scout Law.

Requirement 5f: Playing Area Diagram

What You Need To Do

Draw a diagram of the playing area for each sport and explain the important parts of each field, court, pool, mat, or course.

Helpful Tips

• Include boundaries in your diagram.
• Label important lines and markings.
• Show scoring areas when applicable.
• Include player positions if useful.
• Use simple drawings and labels.
• Make diagrams neat and easy to read.
• Review official layouts when available.
• Identify safety zones if applicable.
• Explain how the area is used during competition.
• Keep a separate diagram for each sport.

Resources

• Fields of Play for Various Sports (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage clear labeling.
• Review diagrams for accuracy.
• Use official field or court layouts as references.
• Focus on major features rather than artistic details.

Requirement 5g: Competitive Participation

What You Need To Do

Participate in each chosen sport for a season or for three months. Take part as a competitive individual or as a member of an organized team.

Helpful Tips

• Attend practices regularly.
• Participate in scheduled competitions.
• Complete at least four scored contests for each sport.
• Follow team and league rules.
• Track attendance and participation.
• Give your best effort during practices and events.
• Work cooperatively with teammates.
• Practice good sportsmanship.
• Stay committed throughout the season.
• Keep records of competitions and results.

Leader Tips

• Verify participation requirements early.
• Encourage consistent attendance.
• Review competition records during the season.
• Support Scouts in completing the full participation period.

Requirement 5h: Season Review

What You Need To Do

Share your completed training chart with your counselor. Discuss how participating in your sports affected you physically and mentally.

Helpful Tips

• Bring all records to your counselor meeting.
• Review your original goals before the discussion.
• Compare your skills at the beginning and end of the season.
• Consider changes in strength or endurance.
• Consider changes in coordination or fitness.
• Review successes and challenges.
• Discuss improvements in confidence.
• Include examples from practices and competitions.
• Be honest about your experiences.
• Use your records to support your discussion.

Leader Tips

• Ask open-ended questions about the season.
• Encourage reflection on growth and progress.
• Use the Scout’s records during the discussion.
• Focus on both physical and mental development.

Requirement 6a: Sports Careers

What You Need To Do

Identify three careers related to sports. Research one of them and discuss the education, training, certifications, costs, job outlook, salary, advancement opportunities, and your interest in the career.

Helpful Tips

• Choose careers that match your interests.
• Research education requirements for the career.
• Look for any licenses or certifications that are needed.
• Find out how much training programs cost.
• Research job availability and future demand.
• Look up typical starting salaries.
• Identify opportunities for promotion or advancement.
• Review daily responsibilities for the job.
• Consider the skills needed for success.
• Discuss whether the career fits your goals and interests.
• Take notes while doing your research.
• Share specific facts with your counselor.

Careers To Consider

• Coach
• Athletic Trainer
• Physical Therapist
• Sports Official
• Referee
• Umpire
• Fitness Trainer
• Sports Journalist
• Sports Broadcaster
• Sports Photographer
• Sports Psychologist
• Sports Marketing Specialist
• Recreation Director
• Strength And Conditioning Coach
• Sports Medicine Physician
• Team Equipment Manager
• Sports Event Manager
• Sports Statistician
• Athletic Director
• Professional Athlete

Resources

• Sports Jobs for Non-Athletes (video)
• Career Advice for Pro Athletes (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to research reliable sources.
• Help Scouts compare different career options.
• Discuss both education requirements and job duties.
• Focus on careers connected to the Scout’s interests.

Requirement 6b: Sports As A Hobby Or Healthy Lifestyle

What You Need To Do

Research how a sport-related hobby or healthy lifestyle activity can become part of your life. Include training, costs, organizations, and personal goals.

Helpful Tips

• Choose an activity you enjoy.
• Research beginner training opportunities.
• Identify equipment and clothing costs.
• Look for local clubs or organizations.
• Find events, leagues, or competitions if available.
• Determine how much time participation requires.
• Create short-term goals for improvement.
• Create long-term goals for continued participation.
• Research safety requirements for the activity.
• Consider transportation and membership costs.
• Look for opportunities to participate year-round.
• Discuss how the activity supports a healthy lifestyle.

Hobbies To Consider

• Running
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Golf
• Bowling
• Pickleball
• Hiking
• Backpacking
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Rock Climbing
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Disc Golf
• Table Tennis
• Soccer
• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Martial Arts

Resources

• What Happens When You Start Eating Healthy? (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose activities they can continue long term.
• Discuss realistic costs and time commitments.
• Help Scouts set achievable goals.
• Connect sports participation with lifelong fitness habits.

Soccer Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Soccer Troop Program Feature is a fun way for Scouts to learn about soccer while improving their fitness and teamwork skills. It offers activities for all skill levels, from learning the rules to practicing advanced techniques like diving saves and goal kicks. Scouts also explore teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship, which are key to both soccer and the Sports merit badge. The program includes engaging games, like Dribble the Ball Relay and Throw-In for Accuracy, to make learning enjoyable.

Scouts can build their skills through essential, challenging, and advanced activities during meetings. The program ends with a “Main Event,” such as playing small-sided games, hosting a tournament, or putting on a soccer festival. These activities help Scouts apply what they’ve learned while having fun as a team. The Soccer Troop Program Feature is a great way to explore soccer and develop skills that align with the Sports merit badge.

Fitness and Nutrition Program Feature for Scouts BSA Troops

The Fitness and Nutrition Program Feature helps Scouts learn how to improve their health through exercise and smart eating habits. It focuses on concepts like the FITT principle, which guides fitness routines, and My Plate, which promotes balanced eating. Scouts can also explore their flexibility, understand BMI, and practice activities like push-ups, stretching, or a 1-mile run. These skills are useful for staying healthy whether or not they participate in sports and support knowledge needed for the Sports merit badge.

This program feature offers a variety of troop meeting ideas and games to make learning fun. Scouts can practice reading food labels, track their goals using apps, or try activities like yoga and Tai Chi. For the “Main Event,” troops might plan a community walk, an orienteering meet, or an adventure race. By combining fitness and nutrition education with hands-on experiences, Scouts can build lifelong habits that align with the goals of the Sports merit badge.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Sports merit badge gives Scouts a simple way to learn about teamwork, rules, and healthy competition. It fits well within the full merit badge program because it adds an active fitness option to a list that includes science, trades, arts, and outdoor skills. Scouts study safety, practice skills, and track improvement. This helps balance the wide range of choices by offering a badge focused on physical activity and healthy habits.

It also connects to badges like Athletics, Personal Fitness, and Swimming. Scouts who enjoy being active often find Sports a natural fit. It supports the program’s goal of encouraging many different interests.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Sports merit badge supports the larger goals of Scouts BSA by teaching discipline, cooperation, and leadership. Working with a team helps Scouts learn how to guide and support others.

It also ties into fitness, citizenship, and personal development. Playing sports builds strength and coordination. Good sportsmanship teaches respect and responsibility. These skills strengthen confidence and good judgment.

What is the Sports merit badge about?

The Sports merit badge helps Scouts learn about fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal training. Scouts participate in sports, track their progress, and build skills they can use on and off the field.

Do I have to be good at sports to earn the Sports merit badge?

No, you don’t need to be an expert. The badge focuses on effort, learning, and improving your abilities. It’s a chance to try new sports or get better at ones you already enjoy.

How do I choose the two sports for the Sports merit badge?

Pick sports you are interested in or want to explore. Make sure you have access to practice sessions and games during the time you work on the badge. Your counselor can help you decide.

What is the training program for the Sports merit badge?

The training program is a plan you create with your counselor. It includes exercises, practices, and rest days to improve your skills and fitness during your sports season or a three-month period.

What kind of chart or tracking system should I use?

You can use a notebook, a printed chart, or an app to record your training and games. Include dates, activities, and your progress. This will help you show your work to your counselor.

What do I need to know about sportsmanship for the Sports merit badge?

Sportsmanship is about respecting teammates, opponents, and officials. It means playing fair, following the rules, and showing a positive attitude, whether you win or lose.

Do I have to participate in official games or matches?

Yes, you need to play in at least four organized, officiated games, meets, or contests for each sport. This helps you experience real competition and teamwork.

What if I want to choose a sport that isn’t listed?

Talk to your counselor. They can approve other recognized sports as long as they follow the guidelines and are not prohibited by Scouting America.

The Sports merit badge is a great way for Scouts to explore the world of sports while building important life skills. This badge isn’t just about being good at a game. It’s about learning the value of practice, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this badge challenges you to grow both physically and mentally.

Earning the Sports merit badge includes participating in two different sports. You’ll create a personal training program, practice regularly, and play in organized games or competitions. This teaches you how to set goals and track your progress, which are useful skills on and off the field.

You’ll also learn about staying safe, using the right equipment, and playing by the rules. Understanding sportsmanship and respect for others is a big part of the badge. These lessons show that sports are about more than winning—they’re about being a good person.

The Sports merit badge is perfect for Scouts who want to stay active, try new things, or improve in their favorite sport. It’s a fun and rewarding experience that helps build confidence, discipline, and lifelong healthy habits.