Ivan Melendez was a standout at the University of Texas in 2022.

In fact, the El Paso, Texas native won the Golden Spikes Award — given to the best amateur baseball player in the United States — and the Dick Howser Trophy given to the country’s college baseball player of the year.

Wade Evanson covers high school sports in Washington and Columbia counties, as well as the Hillsboro Hops.

West Bureau Sports Editor

"As a lifelong participant and fan of all things sport, I appreciate the work and time necessary to excel on the various fields of play. It’s that appreciation that drives me to both acknowledge, reward, and celebrate the commitment made by boys and girls athletes from the field to the court, mat to the pool, diamond to the track, and beyond."

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