Prerequisite:
Prerequisites must be completed prior to the first class date!
-Swimmer Classification! Must be able to pass the BSA Swim Test! Proof isn’t required but the first requirement completed is the BSA Swim Test. Not passing the BSA Swimmer Test will result in being transferred to our Learner’s Swimming Lessons!
Notes to Counselor in Merit Badge Pamphlet: The Merit Badge Booklet is given to each scout in our program!
With the revision to Swimming merit badge requirements, the goal is to emphasize teaching Scouts correct stroke mechanics. It is critical for them to learn these strokes correctly, in good form and with proper breathing, so they can swim with greater ease and efficiency. Furthermore, the ability to correctly perform these strokes will make Scouts safer in and around the water as well as when they tackle advanced water activities such as Lifesaving merit badge and BSA Lifeguard.
Information:
Swimming Merit Badge is offered on Sundays, October-December. The maximum class size is 45 Scouts. Swimming Merit Badge consists of 6 classes (5 Pool & 1 Lecture Class)! Please see calendar page for locations.
We give each Scout their Merit Badge Blue Card back at the last class (Lecture Class).
Suggestions:
Any Scout can sign up for Swimming but needs to be able to pass the BSA swimmer test (Jump feet first into water over the head in depth. Level off and swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: front crawl, sidestroke, or breaststroke; then swim 25 yards using an easy resting backstroke. The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops and must include at least one sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating).
Some of the more difficult requirements for swimming are…
-Swim continuously for 150 yards using the following strokes in good form and in a strong manner: front crawl for 25 yards, back crawl for 25 yards, sidestroke for 25 yards, breaststroke for 25 yards, and elementary backstroke for 50 yards.
-In water over your head use the feet first method of surface dive and headfirst surface dive (pike or tuck) bring an object up from the bottom. (8 feet)
We will have some time if a Scout has trouble with requirements, to practice and try again. If a scout needs to improve on their swimming though we suggest that they take the learners class first!
Schedule: ( Pool Class / Lecture Class )
10/09/22 5:30P to 8:00P – BSA Swimmer Test & Reaching/Throwing/Reasons to Reach & Throw Rather Than Swim/Avoid Contact with Victim/Line Rescues
10/23/22 6:00P to 8:00P – Feet First/Headfirst Surface Diving & Floating/Survival Floating/HELP and Huddle
11/06/22 6:00P to 8:00P – Standing Headfirst/Long Shallow Diving & 150 Yard Swimming
11/13/22 6:00P to 8:00P – 150 Yard Swimming
12/04/22 6:00P to 8:00P – Make Up (Class isn’t required if pool requirements are complete!)
12/18/22 6:00P to 7:00P – Safe Swim Defense/Hazards Encountered/First Aid & Aerobic Exercise
Pricing:
$35/$45 for Event, Nonrefundable Amount is $5.00! Transfers/Refunds are allowed for this program. Swimming Merit Badge participants can move to Learners Swimming Lessons. Refund % is listed below, First Day of Event is the 1st Class under Schedule!
| Swimming Merit Badge | Percentage | Refund Amount |
| At Least 60 Days Prior | 100% | $30.00 |
| Within 30 Days Prior | 50% | $15.00 |
| Within 15 Days Prior | 25% | $7.50 |
| Within 7 Days Prior | 0% | $0.00 |
Files:
Flyer for Swimming Merit Badge
Lesson Plans for Swimming Merit Badge
Venturing Crew 820 BSA 