SoarToEagle
Know all about Eagle Coach
Who is an eagle coach?
An Eagle Project Coach is an adult leader, often affiliated with a district’s Scouting council, who regularly advises scouts on their Eagle service projects. The role of an Eagle Project Coach is not to create requirements or dictate the scope of the project but to provide guidance to a scout throughout their Eagle Project’s planning and execution process. The Eagle Coach acts as a mentor to the scout throughout their Eagle journey, from the project start date until its completion
A coach must be a registered member of the BSA and:
- Hold any adult Scouting position
- Be current in Youth Protection training and AB506 (if in CA)
- Be approved and designated by the district council
A coach must also have a thorough understanding of the official scouting resources available on the Boy Scouts of America website.
When to engage a coach for your Eagle service project
Since the Eagle Scout service project coach is designated at the council or district level, they do not begin work with a Scout until the project proposal is approved by the council Eagle advisor. However, you should identify who your Eagle coach will be before the proposal review call and provide that information in the Eagle workbook. Once the proposal is approved, the Eagle coach’s service should continue through the completion of the project report.
How does the council determine an Eagle coach?
The local district council determines who may serve as designated Eagle project coaches. The ability to work well with Scouts, knowledge of applicable policies and procedures, and an understanding of how the project contributes to the aims of Scouting are a few parameters to consider in selecting them.
If designated coaches do not take on the day-to-day mentoring, they should be able to work with a few Scouts at the same time. There is no limit on the number of Scouts an Eagle coach can mentor, as long as it meets the requirements.
What’s the role of coach on the project?
A project coach is key to the success of council or district efforts to guide Scouts through the Eagle service project process. Yes, a coach serves as a mentor and consultant and helps in other ways, but they do so without directing the Scout. Instead, they must use the BSA method of positive adult association and apply logic and common sense to help the Scout achieve success.
A coach’s role is to support the Scout and guide them toward making decisions that will help meet project requirements. Coaches do not have the authority to dictate changes, withdraw approval previously granted by the district or council, or take any other directive action.
Instead, Eagle Scout service project coaches strive for a positive experience by encouraging Scouts to make wise decisions and follow logical processes as they work through the requirements. In this way, we assist the Scout in becoming successful not just with their project, but by providing an experience that will help them throughout their life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to have an Eagle Scout Project Coach to proceed with your project?
No. According to the BSA’s official guide to advancement, “working with a designated Eagle Scout service project coach is the Scout’s decision.” Therefore, if you truly think you won’t need a coach, you can choose to forgo having one. You must communicate this to your council and Eagle advisor.
Who will have the final word in your Eagle project, you or the coach?
You’ll have the final word on your Eagle project, even if your Project Coach disagrees. According to the BSA official guide to advancement, “Coaches do not have approval authority. Instead, they serve to encourage—not direct—the Scouts to make the kinds of decisions that will lead to successful outcomes.”
Does your Eagle Scout Project Coach have to be someone outside of your troop?
No. While, quite often, Eagle project coaches are individuals who are outside your troop, this is not required. In fact, there have been many cases where councils didn’t have the volunteer capacity to assign an outside project coach, and adult leaders from a unit were asked to help.
Will the Eagle Coach support you throughout the length of the project?
Yes. Your Eagle Coach will serve as your mentor for the entire duration of your Eagle project.
Do you need to pay your Eagle Coach?
Of course not. Eagle project coaches are Scouting volunteers. As these individuals are assigned to you via your local Scouting council, they are well aware of protocol and will never ask for any form of payment.
