Heidelberg Athletics Hall of Fame
Part of the famed "Steamroller Offense" for Heidelbeg in the late 1940's, Baker is equally noted for his many contributions to the 'Berg as a teacher and coach for 30 years in the Akron area until his retirement in 1980.
He was voted the team's most valuable player in 1948 when Heidelberg was one of only 13 teams in the nation to go unbeaten and untied, 9-0-0. The 1948 team was also honored in a resolution passed by the Ohio legislature.
A three-year letterman in both baseball and football, Baker also lettered in football for Ohio State in 1945. His college career was interrupted by World War II. He returned to Heidelberg for three years following the war.
A tough competitor, Baker saw action at both offensive and defensive positions. An All-Conference selection and an All-Ohio pick by the Associated Press, Baker was a co-captain on the 1949 team, which finished second to undefeated Muskingum in conference play.
Following his graduation, Baker taught health and physical education classes at Heidelberg for three years. He also was an assistant coach under the late Paul Hoernemann and served as the college's head baseball coach.
He coached and taught at Akron Kenmore and Akron Ellet, where he also served as the school's athletic director. In addition to his support of Heidelberg's recruitment effort, Baker was also a regular guest speaker during football clinics which were coordinated by Hoernemann.
He currently is enjoying his retirement. A resident of Akron, Baker works part-time at an Akron Bank.
(This profile appeared in the 1986 Hall of Fame Banquet program. Â Mr. Baker passed away in 2002.)
