New merit badge connects teamwork, leadership, digital citizenship, and technology skills through the rapidly growing world of competitive gaming
IRVING, TX (July 24, 2026) – Scouting America today announced the launch of the Competitive Gaming merit badge at the National Jamboree, introducing Scouts to the exciting world of esports while emphasizing teamwork, communication, leadership, sportsmanship, and responsible digital engagement.
The new merit badge reflects Scouting America’s commitment to preparing young people for success in a rapidly evolving digital world. Through hands-on learning and competitive play, Scouts will explore the fundamentals of organized gaming, online safety, technology, strategy development, and the skills necessary to thrive both in and out of competition.
“Competitive gaming has become a global platform for collaboration, innovation, and skill development,” said Ryan Moon, director of new programs at Scouting America. “The Competitive Gaming merit badge gives Scouts an opportunity to engage in an activity they are passionate about while learning critical life skills such as teamwork, communication, resilience, and ethical decision-making.”
The merit badge debuted during the National Jamboree in West Virginia, where Scouts from across the country have the opportunity to participate in interactive activities, educational sessions, and competitive gaming experiences designed to highlight the badge’s requirements and learning objectives.
The Competitive Gaming Merit Badge focuses on key areas including:
- Teamwork and effective communication
- Leadership and strategic thinking
- Digital citizenship and online safety
- Healthy gaming habits and wellness
- Technology and gaming systems
- Sportsmanship and ethical competition
- Career exploration within the gaming and technology industries
As esports continues to grow as a competitive, educational, and career-oriented field, the merit badge offers Scouts a structured way to understand the opportunities and responsibilities associated with gaming.
“Scouting has always evolved to reflect the interests and future opportunities facing young people,” said Roger Krone, president and CEO of Scouting America. “By introducing the Competitive Gaming merit badge, we are meeting Scouts where they are while reinforcing the values that have defined Scouting for generations.”
The National Jamboree provides an ideal setting for the merit badge launch, bringing together thousands of Scouts and leaders for one of the organization’s premier events focused on adventure, leadership, innovation, and personal growth.
For more information about the Competitive Gaming Merit Badge and Scouting America, visit www.scouting.org.
About Scouting America
Scouting America provides the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, which helps young people be “Prepared. For Life.®” Scouting America welcomes all of America’s youth into its programs. Our goal is to give them fantastic experiences in the outdoors, and elsewhere, where they can grow with us in a safe environment. More than 130 million Americans have been through our programs since our founding, and nearly 1 million youth are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country. To learn more about Scouting America’s mission, or to sign your child up for Scouting, visit www.BeAScout.org.