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The Hero Behind The Field: 5 Essential Facts About Mark Daily Athletic Field And 2nd Lt. Mark J. Daily

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Mark Daily Athletic Field, a central hub for youth and adult sports in Irvine, California, is more than just a collection of lighted ball diamonds and soccer pitches; it stands as a permanent, living memorial to a local hero. As of this month, December 2025, the facility continues to be one of the City of Irvine’s most utilized and well-maintained athletic complexes, playing a crucial role in Orange County’s vibrant recreational landscape.

This comprehensive guide delves into the field's current status and essential amenities while providing an in-depth look at the extraordinary life of Second Lieutenant Mark J. Daily, whose sacrifice inspired the naming of this community landmark. Understanding the man behind the name adds a profound layer of meaning to every game played on the hallowed ground at 308 West Yale Loop.

The Legacy of 2nd Lieutenant Mark J. Daily: A Local Hero’s Biography

The namesake of the Mark Daily Athletic Field is Second Lieutenant Mark J. Daily, a native son of Irvine whose life of dedication and service was tragically cut short while serving his country. His story is one of patriotism, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to the community that raised him. The field serves as a permanent, tangible tribute to his memory.

  • Full Name: Mark James Daily
  • Hometown: Irvine, California
  • Date of Birth: July 4, 1983 (some sources cite 1984)
  • Early Life & Education: Grew up in Irvine's Woodbridge Village. Attended Stonecreek Elementary School and Lakeside Middle School before graduating from Woodbridge High School.
  • Higher Education: Graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a degree in political science.
  • Military Honors: Was named the ROTC's Outstanding Cadet for 2005, received the Marshall Award, and was a Distinguished Military Graduate for UCLA, which is the highest honor the ROTC awards.
  • Military Service: Assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, based at Fort Bliss, Texas.
  • Date of Death: January 15, 2007, at the age of 23, while serving in Iraq.
  • Personal Interests: Mark loved sports, particularly baseball, and listed his top interests as family, peace, and progress.

The decision to name the athletic complex after Lt. Daily was a powerful gesture by the City of Irvine to honor a young man who embodied the values of service and community spirit. It ensures that his sacrifice is never forgotten by the generations of athletes who use the facility.

Current Amenities and Field Configuration at the Irvine Complex

Mark Daily Athletic Field is a cornerstone of the City of Irvine’s park system, designed to accommodate a wide range of youth and adult sports leagues. Its strategic location near the San Diego Creek and its comprehensive amenities make it a premier Orange County athletic destination.

The complex is meticulously maintained by the City of Irvine Parks and Recreation Department and is a popular choice for tournaments and league play due to its excellent lighting and diverse field options.

Key Features and Field Layout:

  • Field Configuration: The complex features a versatile layout, including three lighted ball diamonds (labeled Fields 1, 2, and 3) and two lighted soccer fields (labeled Fields A and B). The soccer fields are designed to overlay the ball diamonds, allowing for maximum use and flexibility across different sports seasons.
  • Lighting: All primary fields are equipped with lighting, extending play into the evening hours, which is essential for adult leagues and evening practices during the school year.
  • Baseball/Softball Facilities: In addition to the three main ball diamonds, the complex includes two dedicated batting cages, providing essential practice space for baseball and softball teams.
  • Support Facilities: The site is equipped with essential public amenities, including a restroom building and three drinking fountains, ensuring comfort and convenience for players and spectators.
  • Accessibility: The park offers easy access to the local bicycle trail system, encouraging a broader range of recreational activities beyond organized sports.

The field is available for reservation, and its high demand means local sports organizations, including Irvine youth sports leagues, must coordinate closely with the City's Field Reservations office.

The Mark Daily Athletic Field's Role in Irvine's Sports Infrastructure

While major construction projects in the City of Irvine often focus on larger venues like the Great Park, the Mark Daily Athletic Field remains a critical piece of the municipal sports puzzle. Its continued operation and maintenance are vital for supporting grassroots and community-level athletics, ensuring that the city's commitment to recreation is accessible to all residents.

Its location off the San Diego Creek Trail makes it a natural gathering point for the Woodbridge and surrounding Irvine communities, fostering a strong sense of local connection.

Community and Infrastructure Highlights:

  • Local Landmark: The field's marquee is a recognized local landmark, often referenced in nearby infrastructure planning documents, such as the Woodbridge High School field lighting improvement project. This confirms its status as a permanent and important fixture in the area.
  • League Hub: The complex is a frequent host for local soccer, baseball, and softball leagues, providing a consistent venue for practice and competition throughout the year. Its lighted fields are particularly valuable during the winter months.
  • City Oversight: The Irvine Sports Committee regularly discusses the allocation and management of the city’s athletic spaces, including Mark Daily Athletic Field, ensuring it meets the needs of a growing and diverse population.
  • Orange County Sports Destination: The quality of the facility is such that it is included in regional sports facilities guides, demonstrating its strong record as a venue capable of hosting significant local events and tournaments.

The field's continued excellence is a testament to the City of Irvine’s dedication to providing top-tier athletic facilities. It stands as a functional, beautiful, and deeply meaningful place where the community can gather, compete, and remember the courageous young man it is named after.

For current field conditions, reservation inquiries, or information on upcoming City of Irvine events, residents are encouraged to check the official City of Irvine Parks and Recreation website, ensuring the most up-to-date information for planning their next game or visit.

The Hero Behind the Field: 5 Essential Facts About Mark Daily Athletic Field and 2nd Lt. Mark J. Daily
mark daily athletic field
mark daily athletic field

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