Michael Boyle Scholarship

The O.Y.A. Boys Programs created the Michael Boyle Scholarship to honor the memory of former OYA board member and treasurer Michael Boyle whose untimely passing was a source of sadness and loss to all who knew him..

The scholarship is designed to reward present and/or former O.Y.A. Boys Program participant(s) with an academic stipend to help defray the cost of post-secondary education.

The eligibility requirements are as follows:

 1.      The recipient or recipients has participated in at least four seasons in any sport offered by OYA Boys Programs (basketball, baseball or volleyball).

2.      The recipient or recipients is a senior in high school and has been accepted into an accredited two or four-year institution of higher learning.  There is no restriction on major.

3.      The recipient or recipients have a cumulative 3.00 grade point average or better, and must graduate with that level.  In addition, the recipient or recipients must have either a minimum of a 23 composite score on the ACT, or rank in the top half of their graduating class (assuming rankings are available).

4.      The initial scholarship amount is $1,000.  This one time award is given to one or more candidates, depending on availability of funds.

5.      Candidates are solicited by any manner of communication chosen by the OYA board.  Selection is based on demonstration of values and intangibles portrayed by the OYA Mission Statement, such as sportsmanship, community service, and leadership.

6.      Candidates must provide written recommendation from at least two present or former OYA members, preferably coaches or managers.  Also, candidates must submit a written essay to the OYA board on why they should be considered, and their plans to use the scholarship money. 

7.      Candidates are placed into nomination by a current scholarship committee member, and seconded by another.  The candidates list is discussed in the early spring of each year, interviews may be held for finalists, and awards are determined by simple majority vote of the committee, after due deliberation and discussion.

8.      Announcements of the recipients is made as widely as possible, including the annual senior awards night at the recipient’s high school, the OYA newsletter, the OYA website, and any local publications willing to publish the information, including the Village of Orland Park’s official newsletter.  In addition, an announcement would be made at an OYA General Membership meeting.

9.      The OYA Board, at its discretion, may award supplemental and/or honorary scholarships.

Officially adopted by the OYA Boys Board of Directors on 12/8/02.  

To be considered for the Michael Boyle Scholarship, all applications must include:

1. Official High School Transcript.  This contains the required qualifications of grade point avg., class rank, and ACT score.
2. Two letters of recommendation from former or present OYA coaches, managers or asst. coaches.
3. Written essay to the OYA Board on why you should be considered and use of scholarship funds.
4. Acceptance letter from an accredited 2 or 4 year institution of higher learning.

All of the above should be brought to the OYA office on a Wednesday from 6-9:00 pm before the cut-off date of February 24, 2010.  Please do not mail.

Applications must be received by February 24th  of the school year. No exceptions.