Tiger Cubs

About the Program

Because the boys of the time had greater educational opportunities at an earlier age, Robert Untch National Cub Scouting Director, 1971 - 1982 launched Tiger Cubs. The program was formally introduced by the BSA just before the fall program of 1982. By the end of 1982, over 48,000 Tigers were registered. By the year 2000 the Tiger Cub population had grown to 285,908. Initial component of the program included a simple and fun program for first-grade boys and their families, a program "separate" from Cub Scouting, no advancement plan, no Den Leaders, tigers DID NOT attend Pack Meetings, and were formally inducted (bridged) into Cub Scouts.

In May of 2001 the BSA announced vast changes to the Tiger Cubs - BSA program. Currently "Tiger Cub" is now a Cub Scout rank. Tiger Cubs can complete the Bobcat requirements before leaving first grade. The "Tiger Cub Den Leader" coordinates shared leadership among adult partners in the den. A Tiger Cub den leader is required if a pack registers Tiger Cubs. The Tiger Cub den leaders are members of the pack leadership team and receive support and coaching from the pack committee, which includes the pack trainer and Cubmaster or assistant Cubmaster. Tiger Cubs and adult partners formally participate in den and pack activities (including Family Camping) together.

Tiger Cubs wear the traditional orange uniform T-shirt, No. 83391-96, along with an optional, newly designed blue and orange cap, No. 83892. The Tiger Cub badge, No. 80369, is earned after completing five achievements grouped in three areas: den activity, family activity, and a Go See It. After completing the rank of Tiger Cub, boys may earn one Tiger Track bead when he completes 10 (of 50) electives. There is no limit to the number of Tiger Track beads a boy can earn.

Tiger Cub badges are presented in meaningful pack meeting ceremonies. The new Tiger Cub badge replaces the Webelos badge in the 4-badge "diamond" on the blue Cub Scout uniform. Advancement is initially displayed on a new Tiger Cub totem, which is worn on the Tiger Cub belt. Tigers meet montly in a pattern consisting of den, family, Go See It activities, and participation in the monthly pack meeting. Suggested den meeting plans are now included in Cub Scout Program Helps.

Tiger Cubs and adult partners work out of the Tiger Cub Handbook, to complete achievements and electives, and plan activities. A complete description of the Tiger Cub program can be found in the "Tiger Cub Program" chapter of the Cub Scout Leader Book. Each pack should have one or more Tiger Cub dens, each consisting of five to nine boys and adult partners.