Ballparks of America aims to provide a new baseball experience in the Branson, Missouri area
Led by Ballparks of America investor Paul Satterwhite, a group of Springfield, Missouri-based investors have acquired the Sho-Me Baseball Camp based in Reeds Spring, Missouri. Along with the revitalization process will come a rebranding of the camp by new operator Ballparks of America, under the management of Sports Facilities Management.
Ballparks of America views this new acquisition as an opportunity to preserve the history of Sho-Me, which has previously seen instruction from the likes of greats Ozzie Smith and Gaylord Perry, among others. Ballparks will also look to preserve the nature and legacy of the camp, including its rustic dormitories and natural grass fields overlooking Table Rock Lake, while simultaneously breathing in new life into the property.
“We see this as an opportunity to not only preserve the history of the Sho-Me Baseball facility, but also to pursue our vision of providing high-school aged players and families the opportunity to play competitive baseball and showcase their talents while enjoying a stay at one of the most beautiful lakes in the country,” said Satterwhite. “Our goal is to showcase the natural beauty of Table Rock Lake while allowing teams and individuals to come together in a historic place where they can experience both their love of the greatest game in the world and time with friends and family in a special environment.”
Aerial shot of Ballparks of America.
Sho-Me Baseball Camp was originally founded in 1958 by Ernie Nevel and Goldie Howard, both with direct ties to Major League Baseball. The camp would change hands several times over the following years until it ended up in the care of the Schroeder family in the mid-1990s. Christopher Schroeder operated Sho-Me for over 20 years, creating lifelong memories for youth baseball players throughout the Branson area and the United States.
“I have been lucky enough to take the mound in every major league stadium, and I have never stepped on a mound that had a more beautiful view than the one at Sho-Me overlooking Table Rock Lake,” said Scott Bailes, general manager of Ballparks of America.
As Sho-Me’s rebrand and facelift begins in early 2022, the camp will still host limited tournaments throughout the year. An events schedule and more information on the upcoming changes will be released over the next few weeks.
