Irvine coach Gabriel Cota talks to his team after a CIF playoff victory. (PHOTO: Tom Connolly, For OC Sports Zone).
Irvine High School baseball players Smith Spivey, Nico Macalino and Owen Song received Casey Dumont Character Scholarship scholarships from Oakwood Wealth Partners.
The awards are named in honor of Dumont, the popular late Irvine assistant baseball coach.
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The three players were instrumental in helping Irvine reach the semifinal round of the CIF Division 5 playoffs. The Vaqueros lost to Kaiser in the semifinals. Irvine advanced to the semifinal round for the first time since 1993.
Smith Spivey
“Smith Spivey is the embodiment of what the Casey Dumont Character Scholarship represents,” said Coach Gabriel Cota.
“For the past four years, he has approached every day with professionalism, consistency, and a team-first mindset. Having been part of the Irvine Baseball family for nearly a decade. first as a younger sibling and now as a respected leader, Smith has made a lasting impact on the program. His leadership is genuine and contagious, influencing teammates both on and off the field. Widely respected by coaches and peers alike, he is a true example of how dedication, character, and hard work come together to create something special.”
Nico Macalino
“Throughout his time in the program, Nico has consistently set the tone with his work ethic and leadership, pushing both himself and his teammates to meet a high standard,” Cota said. “He holds himself accountable in every aspect, never allowing his effort or focus to fall short of his expectations.
“As a catcher, Nico has been a cornerstone of the team. leading from behind the plate, earning the trust and respect of those around him, and helping guide the group through every challenge. His presence has had a lasting impact on this program, both on and off the field. We are proud to honor Nico and grateful for the example he has set for others to follow.”
Owen Song
“In over two decades of coaching, Owen stands out as one of the very best teammates I’ve had the privilege to be around,” Cota said. “He leads by example in every sense, consistently taking initiative, embracing responsibility, and never asking others to do something he isn’t willing to do himself.
“Owen is the first to step up when something needs to be done and the last to leave until the job is finished. Despite putting together one of the most impressive statistical seasons in Irvine High history, he carries himself with remarkable humility and grace. His focus has always been on the team, constantly looking for ways to support and elevate those around him.
“Owen’s impact on this program goes far beyond numbers. He has helped build a culture of accountability, selflessness, and pride, leaving the program in a better place because of who he is and how he leads.”
Cota said he was appreciative of the support of Mike Lockwood, owner of Oakwood Wealth Partners in Irvine for awarding the scholarships.
“We are extremely blessed to have someone like Mike Lockwood continue to contribute to the Irvine High baseball program,” he said. “Mike was an amazing asset and friend while his sons were in the program, but he has continued to stay close and does a ton for us. Mike is one of those people that sees the best in developing young people and not just the athlete. I cannot thank him enough for all of his contributions over the years and his continued support of myself and this program.”
—Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com
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