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This is a photo of Walt White presenting a Otter Athletics graduation stole to Kyle Giovonnoni.

Otter Backers Club Returns for a New Era

July 27, 2026

SEASIDE, Calif. – Cal State Monterey Bay Athletics is proud to announce the return of the Otter Backers Club, reimagined to meet the needs of a new era in collegiate athletics and strengthen the future of Otter student-athletes.

As the official annual giving program for CSUMB Athletics, the Otter Backers Club provides the philanthropic support that fuels the continued growth and success of more than 300 NCAA Division II student-athletes. The renewed model reflects a commitment to building a sustainable, community-driven foundation that elevates every aspect of the student-athlete experience.

"This is an investment in student-athlete success and a future we can build together," said Director of Athletics Kirby Garry. "The support of our alumni, parents, fans, and community partners has never been more important as we continue providing an exceptional experience for our student-athletes."

Gifts to the Otter Backers Club directly support the areas that have the greatest impact on student-athlete success, including:

  • Scholarships that help attract and retain talented student-athletes.
  • Team travel that allows Otter programs to compete throughout the West Region and beyond.
  • Sports performance resources that support health, wellness, and athletic development.
  • Equipment and uniforms that prepare our teams to compete at the highest level.
  • Championship experiences that become defining moments in a student-athlete's college journey.

Every gift, regardless of size, creates opportunities that would not otherwise be possible.

Athletics plays a vital role in the life of Cal State Monterey Bay. It builds school pride, strengthens the campus community, and creates lasting connections that extend well beyond competition. Through their experiences as student-athletes, Otters develop the leadership, resilience, discipline, and teamwork that prepare them for success long after graduation.

Introducing the Legacy Scholarship Circle

The relaunch of the Otter Backers Club also introduces the Legacy Scholarship Circle, the premier level of scholarship support for CSUMB Athletics.

Legacy Scholarship Circle members make an annual commitment of $9,187, an amount equivalent to one year of California resident tuition and mandatory fees for a CSUMB student-athlete. This transformational investment helps provide educational opportunity while strengthening the university's ability to recruit, retain, and develop outstanding student-athletes.

While Legacy Scholarship Circle members receive exclusive recognition and engagement opportunities, the greatest reward is knowing their generosity directly impacts the lives of Otter student-athletes and helps position CSUMB Athletics for sustained success.

"Scholarships change lives," Garry said. "When you invest in a student-athlete, you're investing in their education, their personal growth, and their future. The Legacy Scholarship Circle gives our supporters the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the next generation of Otters."

Whether joining at Monte's Level or becoming a member of the Legacy Scholarship Circle, every Otter Backers Club member plays an essential role in advancing the mission of CSUMB Athletics.

As the landscape of collegiate athletics continues to evolve, community support has never been more important. Together, Otter Backers are investing in an athletics experience that reflects the ambition of Cal State Monterey Bay and the potential of its student-athletes.

Join the Otter Backers Club today and help ensure future Otters have the opportunity to compete, graduate, and lead.

For more information or to become an Otter Backer, visit the Otter Backers Web Page.

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