Transitioning from athlete to coach, former Bowling Green State University track and field star Riley Baker steps into his new role as a key member of Eastern’s coaching staff. As the first-year director of track and field, James Gildon recognized the need for someone who could bridge the gap between coach and athlete, and Baker’s experience and respect from his teammates made him the perfect fit.
Baker had an impressive athletic career at Eastern, earning eight first-team All-Ohio Valley Conference honors as a sprinter and hurdler. In the 2019 OVC Outdoor Championship, Baker secured second place in the 400-meter hurdles and fourth place in the 110-meter hurdles, contributing to Eastern’s team victory and receiving a second-team All-OVC award.
Continuing his success into the 2020 indoor season, Baker’s 4×400-meter relay team narrowly missed first place at the OVC Indoor Championships, helping Eastern secure the team victory once again. Baker received a second-team All-OVC nod for his exceptional performance.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the outdoor season and the 2021 Indoor Championships, but Baker utilized this time to focus on academics. He earned the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association All-Academic award and the OVC Academic Medal of Honor.
Returning for the 2023 OVC Indoor Championships, Baker added four first-team All-OVC honors to his impressive list of achievements from the previous year. He excelled in multiple events, including the 60-meter hurdles, 400-meter dash, and the 4×400-meter relay. Baker also earned the Academic All-District award and his second OVC Academic Medal of Honor.
Baker’s strong work ethic and dedication gained him the respect of his teammates, a factor that attracted James Gildon to bring him onto the coaching staff. With Gildon being new to the program, Baker’s presence helps establish a solid connection between the athletes and the coach, facilitating effective communication and understanding.
Coaching has always been a part of Baker’s plan even during his athletic career. He wanted to stay involved in track and field and coaching seemed like the perfect avenue to pursue his passion.
Baker acknowledges that he occasionally misses the competitive nature of being an athlete, but seeing his athletes flourish and succeed makes up for it. Witnessing their growth and progress is the most rewarding part of his coaching experience thus far.
As Baker continues to make strides in his coaching career, his dedication and impact on the athletes’ development remain paramount. Regardless of where his future may lead him, coaching will undoubtedly be a part of it.
Baker’s transition from athlete to coach exemplifies his commitment to the sport and his desire to share his expertise with others. With his track record of success and his innate ability to connect with his athletes, Riley Baker’s impact on Eastern’s track and field program is poised to be invaluable.
