In Memoriam: Art Baker, the revered former head coach of Furman football, passed away on Saturday at the age of 94, leaving behind a profound legacy that has shaped the Paladin football program for over five decades.
Pioneering Turnaround: A Remarkable Inaugural Season
Taking the helm as Furman’s head coach in December 1972, Baker orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, transforming the Paladins from a 2-9 record to a stellar 7-4 campaign in his first season. This inaugural success earned Furman the distinction of being recognized as the nation’s most improved football program in 1973. During his five-season tenure (1973-77), Baker compiled a commendable 27-24-4 record.
Building a Coaching Dynasty: Baker’s Astute Hires
Baker’s impact extended far beyond the field, as he made pivotal decisions in hiring assistant coaches who became instrumental in the prolonged success of Paladin football. Notable names like Dick Sheridan, Jimmy Satterfield, and Bobby Johnson, handpicked by Baker, played pivotal roles in shaping Furman’s gridiron destiny for almost a quarter century.
Sheridan’s Triumph: Continuing the Legacy
Sheridan succeeded Baker as head coach in 1978 and, over eight seasons (1978-85), steered the Paladins to an impressive six Southern Conference championships and a national runner-up finish in 1985.
Satterfield’s Era: Adding More Glory
Satterfield, the next in line, led the Paladins for eight seasons (1986-93), securing three SoCon titles and clinching the national championship in 1988.
Johnson’s Reign: Sustaining Excellence
Johnson took the helm after Satterfield, guiding Furman through seven campaigns (1994-01), resulting in two league crowns and a national runner-up finish in 2001.
Lasting Legacy: A Coaching Tree That Thrives
Art Baker influence endures through his coaching tree, as the last three head coaches—Bobby Lamb (2002-10), Bruce Fowler (2011-16), and Clay Hendrix (2017-Present)—all trace their coaching lineage back to Baker. Having played for Sheridan and later serving as assistants to both Satterfield and Johnson, they continue to carry forward Baker’s coaching philosophy.
Nick Saban Announces Retirement After 17 Remarkable Seasons with Alabama Football
“Coach Baker’s fingerprints are forever on Furman football, and Paladins everywhere will always appreciate the impact he had on our program — from his character as a man and influence as a coach on the field to the quality coaches he surrounded himself with,” remarked Clay Hendrix on Sunday.
Iconic Symbol: The Diamond F Legacy
Art Baker contributions weren’t limited to coaching; he played a pivotal role in introducing Furman’s iconic Diamond F logo, which has stood as the primary mark for Paladin athletics for the past 50 years.
Art Baker Beyond Furman: A Storied Career
Art Baker coaching journey extended beyond Furman; he also served as head coach at The Citadel (1978-82) and East Carolina (1985-88). Prior to his time at Furman, he held assistant coaching roles at Texas Tech (1970-72), Clemson (1965-69), and Florida State (1984). A native of Sumter, S.C., Baker distinguished himself as a standout football player at Presbyterian (S.C.) College and graduated in 1953.
Early Career: A Foundation of Success
Before his collegiate coaching stints, Baker commenced his career at McColl High School in 1956, followed by coaching at Newberry High School in 1958. In 1959, he assumed the head coaching position at Columbia’s Eau Claire High School, where he achieved a commendable 43-16-4 record over six seasons and led the Shamrocks to two state runner-up finishes. Baker’s coaching prowess earned him the role of South Carolina’s Shrine Bowl coach in 1963.
A Lasting Tribute: Induction into the Hall of Fame
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports, Baker was rightfully inducted into the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995, cementing his place among the state’s coaching legends.
In celebrating the life and legacy of Art Baker, Furman football stands as a testament to his enduring influence. The Paladin community will forever honor the man who not only coached a team but shaped the destiny of a football program.
