Baseball Field Improvements
Last November, Burroughs received a lead gift to dramatically enhance our baseball program and establish the Katzman Baseball Park, including installation of an artificial turf field and a new scoreboard. Since the fall, fifty alums, parents and have friends have committed to the project, and we are only $100,000 short of our goal. Construction began in early June, and you can see updated photos of the progress by scrolling down to the bottom of this page. The field will be ready in mid-September!
Of course, the baseball field proper will continue to remember and honor legendary coach and athletic director (1951-1970) Tom McConnell. This new initiative recognizes Andy Katzman ‘85 and the incredible service he has given — and continues to give — to our baseball program. As you know, Andy was a stand-out member of the school's first Missouri state baseball championship team (1985), and, over the past 38 years, has coached JBS teams to 10 district titles and three state championships.
We hope you will consider a gift in honor of Andy Katzman ‘85, aka Coach Katter, to support the new turf field and scoreboard that will elevate the baseball program going forward. More information about the field, along with the history of JBS baseball is below. Field construction will begin this summer and the turf baseball field will be ready for play in spring of 2025. We can’t wait to see our players competing on the field next year!
Legendary Baseball Program & Beyond
Burroughs takes pride in its storied baseball program, marked by 12 district titles and four state championships. Ten of our players and alumni have returned as integral members of our coaching staff, imparting wisdom and passion to the next generation of students. Moreover, six of our alum players have ascended to play professional baseball in the major leagues, minor leagues, and independent leagues, carrying the spirit of Burroughs to stadiums nationwide. Now, as we embark on the journey to build a new turf field and get a new scoreboard, we invite you to join us in extending this legacy.
History of the Baseball Field
New Turf & Scoreboard
Providing a consistent playing surface, a turf field is highly resistant to wear and tear and is not as susceptible to damage from weather conditions such as rain or drought, and will prevent play delays due to insufficient field drainage. Maintaining a turf field requires less time, effort, and resources compared to natural grass fields. There's no need for mowing, watering, fertilizing, or reseeding, and overtime the new field will result in significant cost savings and eliminate chemical usage. The versatility of a turf field allows for multi-sport use, accommodating baseball, soccer, field hockey, and lacrosse in the outfield. The new scoreboard will seamlessly cater to both baseball and soccer competitions.
Ways to SupportClick here to support the new turf baseball field and scoreboard with an online gift. Or send in a check, gift from a donor advised fund or stock through these instructions on our website.
Questions? Please contact Amy Greenwood Dunaway '92 at 314/993-4045, ext. 315 or at adunaway@jburroughs.org.