Omaha Celebrates Arkansas’ Wehiwa Aloy as Golden Spikes Award Winner

Omaha, Nebraska – In an exciting announcement made just before Game 1 of the 2025 Men’s College World Series finals, Arkansas Razorbacks’ standout baseball player Wehiwa Aloy was named the 47th recipient of the prestigious Golden Spikes Award, presented by USA Baseball. Aloy becomes the third player from Arkansas to take home this honor, joining the ranks of fellow Razorbacks who have made their mark in college baseball.

The announcement took place during an MLB game between the Kansas City Royals and the Detroit Tigers at TD Ameritrade Park. The award is known for recognizing the top amateur baseball players across the country, highlighting not just athletic skills but also sportsmanship on and off the field.

In recent years, the Golden Spikes Award has been awarded to notable players from various colleges. In 2024, Charlie Condon of Georgia won, marking the first time a Bulldog claimed the award. Following him, the first-ever Longhorn to win was Ivan Melendez in 2022. Adley Rutschman, representing Oregon State, was the 42nd winner of the award and is part of this impressive lineage.

Established in 1978, the Golden Spikes Award is not limited to Division I college players. It also recognizes talent from high school, junior colleges, and other NCAA divisions, making it a significant achievement in the world of amateur baseball. Interestingly, in the award’s 41-year history, it has only not gone to a Division I player twice.

The Golden Spikes trophy itself portrays a stunning pair of golden spikes on a baseball-themed base, detailing past winners. Over the years, it has become a symbol of excellence in baseball, shining brightly in the trophy case of each winner.

The selection process for the award begins with over 100 candidates being narrowed down to a preseason watch list that is announced before the college baseball season kicks off. This season, the list was trimmed to 55 players before progressing to the 40-player midseason watchlist. The addition of semifinalists began in 2007, expanding the opportunity for recognition among talented players.

With Aloy winning the award, the Razorbacks can take pride in their strong baseball program and its ability to produce top-level talent. This prestigious award continues to highlight the hard work and dedication of college athletes who are making their mark on the game.