Former Norwood High School baseball standout Chase Blakey has been named among the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame’s Diamond 9 honorees as part of the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026 Spring Sports Luncheon.
Blakey also has strong Douglas County ties. He is the son of Ellis Blakey, of Ava, and the late Marsha Smith Blakey, and the grandson of Hellen Blakey and the late Clarence Blakey. Hellen Blakey has served as the Arno correspondent for the Douglas County Herald for many years.
Blakey, who played baseball for Norwood in the early 2000s before continuing his career at Evangel University, was recognized among a group of former All-State standouts from Missouri high schools and colleges, as well as individuals who have made positive contributions to the game.
Norwood Pirate Athletics congratulated Blakey on the honor, noting the former Pirate’s upcoming recognition through the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.
During his time at Norwood, Blakey was a pitcher and infielder under coach Kevin Drake. He earned All-State honors in 2002 and was also a two-time All-District and three-time all-conference selection.
Blakey helped Norwood compile a 94-29 record during his four seasons. The Pirates won district championships in 2000 and 2001, with the 2000 team advancing to the state semifinals.
On the mound, Blakey finished his high school career with a 29-5 record and an earned run average under 2.50. In 2002, he averaged 12 strikeouts per game. He was also named to the Hartville All-Tournament team twice and was recognized as the News-Leader’s King of the Hill in 2002.
Following his time at Norwood, Blakey went on to play at Evangel University. He later spent 10 seasons coaching youth baseball. His coaching work included three years with the Springfield Mavericks, where he served two years as a board member, five years with the Rogersville Cardinals and two years assisting the Midwest Nationals. He also broadcast Logan-Rogersville High School baseball games for four seasons.
The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame’s Spring Sports Luncheon, presented by the Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Company, was set for May 19 at Wilson Logistics Arena in Springfield.
The Class of 2026 was headlined by former St. Louis Cardinals player and longtime coach Jose Oquendo. Other inductees included coaches, programs and contributors from baseball, softball, track and field, soccer and Special Olympics.
The Diamond 9 honorees included Kelsey Schulte Chrisman, Chris Curry, Chase Blakey, Beth McGill, R.J. Knese, Mathias Miller, Bob Tuttle, Alicia Mercer Wollard and Ashley Meredith White.
