George Huff (coach)

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George Huff (July 11, 1872 – October 1, 1936) was an American college football and college baseball coach and athletic director. He is best known for his tenure at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he served as the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini football team and the Illinois Fighting Illini baseball team, as well as the university's athletic director.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

George Huff was born on July 11, 1872, in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Harvard University, where he played both football and baseball.

Coaching Career[edit | edit source]

Football[edit | edit source]

Huff served as the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini football team from 1895 to 1899. During his tenure, he compiled a record of 21–16–3. Huff's coaching style and strategies contributed to the early development of the football program at the University of Illinois.

Baseball[edit | edit source]

Huff was also the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini baseball team from 1896 to 1919. Under his leadership, the team achieved significant success, including multiple Big Ten Conference championships. Huff's influence extended beyond coaching, as he played a crucial role in the development of the university's baseball facilities.

Athletic Director[edit | edit source]

In addition to his coaching duties, Huff served as the athletic director at the University of Illinois from 1901 to 1935. During his tenure, he oversaw the expansion of the university's athletic programs and facilities. Huff was instrumental in the construction of Memorial Stadium (Champaign), which became a landmark for the university's athletic department.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

George Huff is remembered as a pioneering figure in the history of Illinois athletics. His contributions to both the football and baseball programs, as well as his role as an athletic director, have left a lasting impact on the university. The Huff Hall on the University of Illinois campus is named in his honor, serving as a testament to his legacy.