Personal Progression Badges & Cub Scout Roles
Personal progression in Cub Scouts happens in three stages, marking a Cub Scout's growth, leadership, and experience over their three years in the program. These stages are linked to their role in the Pack and represented by the woggle they wear around their neckerchief.
As Cubs advance through each level, they develop greater responsibilities, skills, and independence, preparing them for new challenges in Scouts.
✅ Each year, Cubs earn a Personal Progression Badge, showing their growth and achievements.
✅ To move to the next stage, Cubs must complete four program cycles (one full Scouting year).
✅ Cubs review how they’ve grown, reflecting on their adventures, leadership, and teamwork.
🦊 Cub Scout Roles & Woggle Levels
🏃 Runners (First-Year Cubs, Age 8) – Learning & Discovering
Runners are new Cubs, just starting their adventure in the Jungle. They learn from older Cubs, discover new challenges, and develop important teamwork skills.
✔ Follow the Pack, learning the basics of scouting and leadership.
✔ Build confidence and independence while exploring the program areas.
✔ Learn how to work in a Lair, following instructions and participating in group activities.
✅ Woggle: One set of whiskers (a line on either side of the wolf head).
✅ Personal Progression Badge: Awarded after one full year of Cub Scout adventures.
🕵️ Trackers (Second-Year Cubs, Age 9) – Mentoring & Exploring
Trackers support and guide Runners, helping them feel comfortable in the Pack. They also start taking on leadership responsibilities and link with Beaver Scouts, inspiring younger youth.
✔ Teach Runners how to participate in activities and work as a team.
✔ Help plan adventures and ceremonies, learning responsibility and organization.
✔ Engage in linking activities with Beaver Scouts, showing them what Cubs do!
✅ Woggle: Two sets of whiskers (representing growth and leadership).
✅ Personal Progression Badge: Earned after one full year of Cub Scout experiences.
🐺 Howlers (Third-Year Cubs, Age 10) – Leading & Preparing for Scouts
Howlers are the most experienced Cubs, guiding the Pack and preparing for their next big adventure in Scouts. They help organize meetings, lead activities, and shape the future of the Pack.
✔ Participate in Howler Council, making decisions for the Pack.
✔ Lead adventures and games, encouraging teamwork and learning.
✔ Help transition new Trackers and Runners, ensuring smooth progression.
✔ Scout ahead to The Village, preparing for Scouts and greater responsibilities.
✅ Woggle: Three sets of whiskers (showing leadership and mastery).
✅ Personal Progression Badge: Earned after completing their final year in Cub Scouts.
🌟 Progression Prepares Cubs for the Next Step
By the time a Cub earns their third Personal Progression Badge, they are ready to Swim-Up to Scouts.
✅ They have developed confidence, leadership, and essential outdoor skills.
✅ They understand teamwork, responsibility, and how to mentor younger youth.
✅ They are prepared for bigger adventures, taking on new challenges in Scouts.
Final Thoughts: Every Step in the Jungle Matters!
The Cub Scout progression system ensures every Cub learns, grows, and succeeds in their journey. By earning badges, developing leadership, and preparing for Scouts, Cubs build skills that will last a lifetime!