News Summary
The Orange Coast College baseball team held a heartfelt tribute for late coach John Altobelli before their season opener. The event drew around 2,000 attendees who shared memories and honored Altobelli’s impact on players and the community. He is remembered for his coaching successes, including four state championships, and for fostering strong relationships with his team. The ceremony culminated in the renaming of the college’s stadium in his honor, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Costa Mesa, California – On February 11, 2020, the Orange Coast College baseball team honored their late coach, John Altobelli, with a heartfelt tribute prior to their season opener. Altobelli, who served as the head baseball coach at the college from 1993 until his untimely death, was remembered for his profound impact on players, his coaching successes, and his character.
The tribute took place before a game against Chula Vista Southwestern, where approximately 2,000 attendees gathered to pay their respects. During the ceremony, Altobelli’s brother, Tony, led the memorial, and players wore special shirts emblazoned with Altobelli’s No. 14 and the phrase “Forever a Pirate.” The event was marked by a banner reading “The House That Alto Built,” symbolizing the legacy he left behind.
Altobelli’s life was tragically cut short when a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, claimed the lives of all nine individuals aboard, including basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. The day before the crash, Altobelli had a meaningful conversation with freshman infielder David Morgan about leadership and the future of Morgan’s baseball career. That dialogue, as reflected by Morgan, left a lasting impression that motivated him to push the Orange Coast team towards a state championship victory, which they achieved. Morgan later made his Major League Baseball debut with the San Diego Padres in May, performing remarkably as a productive member of the bullpen.
While Altobelli’s coaching tenure saw exceptional achievements, including four state championships and a career record of 705-478-4, his legacy was not solely defined by statistics. Former players recalled his ardent passion for the game, indefatigable work ethic, and the close, supportive relationships he cultivated with team members. During the tribute, attendees shared memories and sentiments, showcasing the deep respect and admiration held for Altobelli, who was a cherished figure in the college’s baseball program and the larger community.
The game that followed the tribute started strong but was ultimately suspended due to darkness, with Southwestern leading 7-6 in the top of the ninth inning. The contest is scheduled to resume on February 18, allowing both teams an opportunity to conclude the competition and honor their former coach in the process.
In a move to honor Altobelli’s enduring influence, Orange Coast College has officially renamed its stadium after him, establishing a lasting remembrance of his coaching career. His son, J.J., who works as a scout for the Boston Red Sox, highlighted the tremendous support the family received during this difficult time and emphasized their commitment to continuing his father’s legacy.
The tribute to John Altobelli serves not only as a memorial for a beloved coach but also as an acknowledgment of his significant contributions to Orange Coast College baseball, as well as the lives of his players. His emphasis on hard work and leadership continues to resonate within the program, inspiring current and future generations of athletes.
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