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Cradle of Liberty Scout Overcoming Disabilities to Achieve Eagle

Christian Matcovich’s dad, Bob Matcovich, and mom, Mary Matcovich, help their son celebrate his Eagle Scout award at Mother of Divine Providence in Upper Merion Sunday, April 27, 2015. (Gary Puleo — For King of Prussia Courier)
Christian Matcovich’s dad, Bob Matcovich, and mom, Mary Matcovich, help their son celebrate his Eagle Scout award  (photo via Gary Puleo — For King of Prussia Courier)

Eagle Scout Christian Matcovich is a shining example of a Scout who tackles challenges head on. Not only is the 20-year-old Eagle Scout unique for joining a small percentage to earn the BSA’s highest rank; he’s also part of a small group of young men who took on the feat with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy.

With the help of his parents, Christian completed a wide variety of required merit badges, weeks of camp, a board review and his Eagle Scout project, just as every Eagle Scout does.

After proudly receiving his Eagle award before dozens of his supporters, Christian spoke from his communication device thanking his strong support system for guidance along the way. Christian recognized his father Bob Matcovich for his constant encouragement throughout the process, playing the role of dad and Scoutmaster to Troop 481 of the Cradle of Liberty Council. And his mother, Mary was with him every step of the way, too.

“I said I will facilitate the experience and take him where he needs to go,” said Mary Matcovich. “When you have a disability, there are measures in place to accommodate that. Christian and I thought maybe he should try to do this before he graduates school. His older brothers did it by the time they graduated high school.”

Beginning his Scouting journey as a Tiger Cub, Christian has been involved in Scouting most of his life. And just as his mom hoped, he earned his Eagle award prior to graduating school like his older brothers did before him. Christian pushed beyond his comfort zone, defying expectations and inspiring others to do the same.

“Without that tenacity, I would not be on this stage today,” said Christian to Mainline Media News.

To relive the emotional moment when Christian discovered he earned his Eagle, head to Mainline Media News for the full story on his inspiring Scouting journey.

 

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Hayley

Hayley Cordaro is a communications specialist at the Boy Scouts of America. She loves sharing inspiring success stories and uncovering new ways volunteers and employees can make the most of their Scouting experience. If you have story ideas or questions, reach out to us at communications@scouting.org.