Hall of Fame
Dr. Isaac Keller was a member of the California faculty for more than three decades and served as the head of the English Department. He was however, involved with the athletic program for 29 of those years as the men's tennis coach. From 1923 until 1952, Dr. Keller presided at the helm of the tennis team and his teams and their records are legendary.
During his tenure as tennis coach, his team ís posted no fewer than ten undefeated seasons and only one team in 29 years had a losing record.
Keller, who coached three current members of the Cal Hall of Fame, also had the opportunity to coach his son Charles.
After earning his undergraduate degree at Albright College, Keller earned a masters degree at Harvard and his doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to a full teaching load and coaching the tennis team, Keller also found time to sponsor a number of student organizations and coached the debate team.
Putting together a successful athletic program during Keller’s years as coached involved a number of activities that are usually shared by today’s coaches and athletic administrators. He was the coach, the recruiter, equipment manager and grounds keeper, and sports information director for his team.
Dr. Keller was an enthusiastic tennis player but not necessarily a great tennis player. He did however convey to his players a love for the game and an good old-fashioned virtues that included hard work and good sportsmanship. He respected athleticism, but appreciated loyalty and hard work.
According to Allen Welsh, an inductee in tonight's ceremony and a great tennis coach in his own right, "I remember Dr. Keller, although he retired before I came here as a student, he would come to matches. He would bring his little folding chair and after the match he would comment over the matches and give his advice.”
Inducting coaches into a hall of fame certainly reflects on the accomplishments of great teams and the longevity of a coach's career, but it should also reflect the impact a coach had on his players. Dr. Isaac Keller certainly had an impact and influence on those young men that had an opportunity to participate in his program.
