Charles R. Smith (coach)


Charles R. Smith was an American football, basketball and baseball player, coach, and college athletics administrator. He served as the head baseball coach at San Diego State University from 1936 to 1942 and from 1946 to 1964, compiling a record of 555–289–10. Smith was also the head basketball coach at San Diego State from 1945 to 1948, tallying a mark of 45–36, and the school's athletic director from 1947 to 1954. In addition, he served as the president of the California Collegiate Athletic Association and as a district representative to the NAIA. Smith was also a Brooklyn Dodgers scout for southern California.

Early life and playing career

Smith attended Coronado High School in Coronado, California and then earned 12 varsity letters as San Diego State, four each in football, basketball, and baseball.

Death and honors

Smith died in 1969. San Diego State's home baseball field, Charlie Smith Field at Tony Gwynn Stadium, was named in Smith's honor.