Since 1990, the OMBAC World Championship Junior Over-The-Line® Scholarship Fund has supported deserving young athletes. The scholarships are presented in memory of Matthew McGiveron, a World Championship Junior Over The Line player who lost his life from a drowning accident in 1990.

In 1990, under the leadership of Jim Vaughn and Will Laughlin, the committee initially allocated $1,000 from the OTL budget. This funded two $500 scholarships yearly for deserving World Championship Junior Over-The-Line® players from San Diego County for post-high school education.

Since 1991, a percentage of team fees from the World Championship Over-The-Line® Tournament has been designated to support these scholarships. Over the years, contributions have also come from private donors, the South Mission Beach Pavilion, the Circle of Champions, and Angels of OMBAC®.

To be eligible, applicant must provide recommendation letters and submit their grade transcripts to the committee. The funds can be used at the winner’s discretion if they enroll in a post-secondary college or training program.

The cash awards are given to deserving Junior Over-The-Line® players who participate in World Championship Junior Over-The-Line® tournaments.

Jim Chitlik (AKA Smiley) and the scholarship committee members assist in obtaining and reviewing student/player applications and presenting the awards.

Brian and Andrea McGiveron have played a significant role in supporting the committee.