Hall of Fame
Coach Auburn Smith came to Southern Arkansas University in 1947 as an assistant football and basketball and head track and field coach. In 1954, he was promoted to head football coach and director of athletics.
In 1969, “Coach Auburn”, as he was affectionately known from his first days at SAU to distinguish between Auburn and then head football and basketball coach Elmer Smith, stepped aside as head football coach but continued to direct the university’s athletic programs while serving as chairman of NAIA District 17. In 1970, Smith added the responsibilities of supervising the financial aids program. “Coach Auburn” retired in 1978 and raised cattle near his native Louann in Ouachita County. After being named to the SAU Board of Trustees, he served until his death in 1992.
What one saw in “Coach Auburn” is what one got in love, service, and dedication. He lived his life by this principal: God first, family second, SAU third, others fourth, and himself last. During his 35 years of service as a coach, faculty member, administrator, trustee, and friend, he taught, helped, and encouraged others, many of his services unaware by others.
“Coach Auburn’s” opening address to his football players each year started with the statement “Men, you are here to get an education first.” He frequently kept marginal players on scholarship even though they were unable to help him win games because of a lack of ability or injury. He was aware these players would be unable to remain in school because of financial difficulties. When he recruited a player and told him he would be on a scholarship for four years, he saw to it that his word was kept. His word was his bond.
The good name of Auburn Smith is synonymous with Southern Arkansas University athletics. The Auburn Smith Outstanding Senior Athlete Award is presented each year to a Mulerider and Lady Mulerider student-athlete. This award is the highest honor a student-athlete can achieve at the university and considers athletic ability, performance, character, and scholastic achievements.
A dedication ceremony was held September 2, 1995, for the Auburn P. Smith Field House at Wilkins Stadium in memory of Smith. The life of Auburn Smith serves as an inspiration for all who were fortunate enough to address him as “Coach Auburn,” a friend and gentlemen.
Auburn Smith’s ‘Riders won 63 games, lost 76, and tied two from 1954 through 1968. Both wins and losses are all-time highs, as are his 15 years as head football coach.
