A. Baker Who Coached Football

Book excerpt: This book is an autobiography of Coach Arthur W. Baker. He was an assistant or head football coach at three high schools (McColl, Newberry and Eau Claire--all in South Carolina) and six universities (Clemson, Texas Tech, Furman, The Citadel, East Carolina and Florida State), and concluded his career as associate athletic director at the University of South Carolina. The first chapter details his early life (birth through high school) in the 1930s and 40s. The second and third chapters cover, respectively, his college years as a student and football player at Presbyterian College and his two years in the army at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Each of Chapters 4 through 14 provides an account of his time as a coach at the aforementioned high schools and universities. The last chapter covers his retirement years. While the book focuses on football, it should be a good read for persons who are not necessarily football devotees. For example, the first chapter gives a vivid picture of life in South Carolina during the 1930s and 40s, when many people grew their own food (including meats, fruits and vegetables), and when indoor plumbing, telephones, and even toilet paper were mostly nonexistent. Additionally, the book is replete with humorous anecdotes--both football related and non football related. And, it gives many examples of high-moral living. For football devotees, the book gives insight into behind-the-scenes activities in high school and university athletics. Such activities include working with players, other coaches, and school administrators as well as happenings both on and off the field. On a personal basis, the book gives a look into the life of a fine man, a Christian man, and a true southern gentleman--and a great coach. It gives many details about his family and family life as well as his many friends. If you were fortunate to know Coach Baker, you will be happy to read the account of his life. If you did not know him, you will likely wish you had after reading the book. As you read this book, you almost certainly will at times chuckle, guffaw, and tear up. And, on a couple occasions you may be surprised or even shocked. All in all, you will likely be engaged.