Description: The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is the second highest ranking junior leader in the troop. He is appointed by the SPL with the approval of the Scoutmaster. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader acts as the Senior Patrol Leader in the absence of the SPL or when called upon. He also provides leadership to other junior leaders in the troop.
Comments: The most important part of the ASPL position is his work with the other junior leaders. The ASPL should be familiar with the other positions and stay current with the work being done. This position can be used for Star, Life and Eagle advancement.
SPECIFIC LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
Helps the Senior Patrol Leader lead meetings and activities.
Runs the troop in the absence of the Senior Patrol Leader.
Helps train and supervise the Troop Scribe, Quartermaster, Instructor, Librarian, Historian, and Chaplain Aide.
Serves as a member of the Patrol Leader's Council.
Sets a good example.
Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly.
Lives by the Scout Oath and Law.
Shows Scout Sprit.
The assistant senior patrol leader is like a best friend. He's always there when he's needed. There is more to being the assistant senior patrol leader than just waiting around until someone needs your help, however.
If you really take the Scout motto, Be Prepared, to heart, you'll have the job of the assistant senior patrol leader well in hand. As assistant senior patrol leader, you should be prepared to fill in for the senior patrol leader on a moment's notice, or less.
What happens, for example, when the senior patrol leader is working with the Beaver patrol on their closing ceremony? Does everyone have to wait until he's done to get some attention? Definitely not, if the assistant senior patrol leader is really prepared.
The co-captain of a ball team doesn't sit on the sidelines waiting for the captain to tell him to carry the ball. Why should the assistant senior patrol leader wait around for direction from the senior patrol leader? Certainly there are times when he'll receive specific assignments. In between, though, he can play a key role in each meeting or activity if he pays attention and comes prepared.
The ASPL needs to attend all the PLC meetings so he knows the plan. Then if during a meeting the SPL is called away the ASPL is ready to step in and immediately take over.
