Gary Sheffield, nine-time Major League Baseball all-star and five-time Silver Slugger, circled the bases after launching homers 509 times during his 22-year career. He traveled North America as a professional ballplayer for the Marlins, Dodgers, Brewers, Yankees, Braves, Padres, Tigers and Mets. I remember hunting for his rookie cards back in 1989. Back then, he was living out his big-league dreams. Today, he’s living a different dream as an avid boater (and angler), and he’s sharing his passion for the sport as an ambassador for Discover Boating’s 2024 “See You Out Here” campaign.

Born in Tampa, Fla., Sheffield grew up fishing and watching his father around the docks. He dreamed of owning a boat. Today, the proud fishing vessel owner joyfully shares his passion for on-the-water experiences with others. There’s only one “Sheff,” but like millions of other enthusiasts, he understands the peace, tranquility, privacy and adventures that await him on a boat.

Sheffield is familiar with the spotlight, having been a pro sports icon for roughly 40 percent of his life. Now he’s shining the spotlight on the benefits of boating and fishing with a passionate message that is relatable and welcoming to a diverse audience of new boaters and outdoor adventurists.

“I try to introduce [boating] to as many people as I can, and I just want them to just get a feel of what I feel,” said Sheffield in a Discover Boating video promo. “This is what it’s all about, man. My dad grew up over here in Fort Tampa, taking me out fishing. This kind of balances me out and balances my soul. Sometimes you’re going through things in life; this kind of resets me. This is what life is all about right here.”

In Case You Missed It!
I encourage you to watch NMMA President Frank Hugelmeyer’s State of the Recreational Boating Industry update from the 2024 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show. You’ll gain more perspective on how dealership contributions help Discover Boating, but also learn more about why Sheffield yearns to share boating adventures with his friends and family and why Discover Boating is sharing his real story with others to help make boating a home run experience for everyone!

Watch the recently released “Beyond the Diamond: A life of boating, fishing and family” short film here.

Learn more about how Discover Boating resources can help you engage more of your customers!