For years, the dirt and gravel area adjoining the basketball courts at Continental School posed a significant challenge, rendering the space unusable whenever it rained. This issue caught the attention of Walden Grove High School student Logan Descamps, who, in pursuit of his Eagle Scout project, approached his former school with a proposal to address this ongoing problem.

Addressing the Urgent Need

Logan Descamps, 17, identified the school’s dire need to mitigate the muddy conditions that hindered basketball play during inclement weather. Recognizing the significance of this issue, Descamps spearheaded a collaborative effort involving his fellow scouts from BSA Troop 365, Continental staff, and volunteers. Their collective mission was to transform the muddy area adjacent to the cafeteria playground into a functional space by replacing the troublesome dirt and gravel with concrete while also refurbishing the mobile basketball hoops.

A Culmination of Dedication in Scouting

For Descamps, achieving the prestigious Eagle Scout status represents the culmination of over a decade’s commitment to scouting, starting from his early years in Cub Scouts. Reflecting on his journey, he highlighted the dedication and perseverance required to attain this highest rank in scouting. Descamps revealed that his motivation stemmed from the rarity of this accomplishment and the acknowledgment that only a select few achieve this milestone.

Preparation and Challenges Faced

Preparation for the project involved meticulous planning and resource acquisition. Descamps diligently completed a comprehensive workbook from the Catalina Council, sourced necessary supplies, and assumed a leadership role. Securing concrete for the project proved challenging, but through persistent efforts, Descamps successfully garnered support from Oremus Material, a Marana-based company, which generously donated all the concrete required for the endeavor. However, he acknowledged that effective communication and relationship-building emerged as critical aspects throughout the project, particularly when coordinating with various stakeholders and workers.

Honoring a Beloved Employee

The playground renovation holds deeper significance as it will be dedicated to the memory of Bernard Petersdorff, a cherished Continental employee who passed away from cancer. Descamps expressed the sentiment behind this dedication, emphasizing the project’s tribute to Petersdorff, who couldn’t return to work due to his illness.

Acknowledgment and Future Aspirations

Superintendent Roxana Rico commended Descamps’ initiative, recognizing it as a vital project for the school. Descamps, on the verge of completing his final merit badge and achieving Eagle Scout status pending board approval, expressed his eagerness for the community to benefit from the renovated playground. He hopes the space sees extensive use, considering it the primary goal of his entire endeavor.

Advice for Aspiring Scouts

In offering advice to fellow scouts aspiring for the Eagle rank, Descamps emphasized the importance of community involvement and aligning personal interests with impactful projects. He encouraged scouts to communicate effectively with potential beneficiaries to ensure their project choices align with their passions and goals, ultimately making the journey to Eagle rank a fulfilling experience.

Logan Descamps’ initiative at Continental School exemplifies the power of community-driven efforts and serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of service within scouting.