SEASIDE, Calif. — After a remarkably successful inaugural campaign in 2020, Cal State Monterey Bay Athletics looks to build on the momentum by launching the 2021 Otter Alumni Challenge next week.

The purpose of the Challenge is to strengthen bonds with student–athlete alumni while growing support for current Otter student–athletes. Last year, 235 alumni helped contribute more than $20,000.

"Last year, we saw alumni step up in some substantial ways to give back to Otter Athletics," says Assistant Athletics Director for External Operations Moe Melhart (@MoeMelhart). "They showed up for us when we needed them the most and we are so thankful for their support. This challenge is really about our alumni showing our current athletes that they believe in what we are doing here at CSUMB and that they are forever part of the MB family, and that is the most important thing."

The format of the Challenge is quite simple. Each of CSUMB's 13 intercollegiate teams engages its alumni with the aim of increasing both alumni involvement and support for the current Otter student–athletes. Thanks to the generosity of current Otter boosters, contributions will be matched based on the level of engagement.

"We are thankful for the support of our growing alumni network and excited for the second year of our Alumni Challenge," says CSUMB Director of Athletics Kirby Garry (@kirbygarry). "Following up last year's success and raising the bar again is our challenge this year. We want this to be an annual campaign that our alumni look forward to each year as it grows in participation and financial support of student–athlete success."

The Challenge kickoffs Monday, Oct. 11 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 17. Each team has its own participation goals, taking into account factors such as roster size and number of alumni. The team with highest participation percentage will receive additional rewards.

All funds raised during the challenge will directly support the donors' chosen team, enhancing both scholarship and general program needs. Donations are also tax deductible to the extent allowed by law (contact your tax professional for additional information).

"We hope that this challenge surpasses the last one as our athletes are back competing this year and doing everything they can to represent CSUMB in the best way," says Melhart.

Visit the Otter Athletics Alumni Challenge page for more information, including a link to make your contribution once the campaign kicks off Monday. Alumni may also reach out to their sport head coach for more information (under the "Department" menu) or contact Moe Melhart directly (mmelhart@csumb.edu).