Hall of Fame
Robert Louis Poole, once known as the "man behind the boom," is fondly remembered by those who played football with him as a force to be reckoned with who approached the game of football with precision, strategy and fearless gridiron play. He was renown both on and off the field as a "team man." He transferred to Benedict College during his sophomore year, and in 1960 and 1961 he was recognized for his excellent prowess by being named to the All-SIAC Teams. During the 1961 season, he was named Most Valuable Player. Robert Poole was well revered amongst his teammates as "the toughest, physical, as well as the most analytical player" to ever play at Benedict College, said teammate Booker T. Sears, Jr., (HOF 2016). While attending Benedict College, he was a member of the Block "B" Club and the YMCA. Robert graduated from Benedict in 1962 with a BS degree in Science. Robert developed his love for sports growing up in Laurens, S.C. He played three major sports in high school, and lettered in all three. However, his true passion was football. He played as an end, where he was voted most valuable player while establishing a record in pass receptions. Upon graduation from Benedict College in 1962, he launched his career as a coach. He served two years as assistant coach at Anderson's Westside High School before accepting a head football coach position in 1964 at Columbia's Booker T. Washington High School, where he remained until he took ill. Under his leadership, his team captured three AAAA championships, winning 21 consecutive games and back-to-back championships. He was named Coach of the Year by the Palmetto Leader newspaper in 1965. Robert suffered with glomerulonephritis (kidney failure), but continued to coach until his death in July 1968. He lived only 29 years, but left an indelible impression upon all whom he encountered. He thoroughly enjoyed teaching athletics as well as actively engaging in sports activities. He was survived by his wife, Eleanor N. Poole Echols, as well as his two children, Tanya Poole Hughes (Bridgeport, CT) and Robert Kyle Poole (Los Angeles, CA), his sister Mrs. Ollie Poole Dennis, and a host of nieces, nephews and relatives. He was the son of Oliver R. and Sara M. Poole of Laurens, S.C.
