University of Memphis Athletics
M Club Hall of Fame
- Induction:
- 1987
Kenneth Barker, a native of Etowah, Tennessee, came to Memphis as a junior college transfer from Tennessee Wesleyan in 1940. A speedy running back, Barker joined the 28 man roster that comprised the 1940 squad. He would finish the season as the team’s third leading scorer with four touchdowns and one extra point. He tallied his first collegiate touchdown in the Tigers’ win over Middle Tennessee and added a touchdown in the Louisiana College game. His most outstanding performance of the season, Barker led Memphis against Troy State with a two touchdown effort in the 31-7 Tiger win. In 1941 Barker was voted co-captain of the team and was instrumental in the 6-3-0 final record. He scored a touchdown in the season home opening win over Millsaps and had an 87-yard punt return for a score in the Livingston game. His 26-yard touchdown run helped the Tigers to a Homecoming victory over Delta State and he ended his season scoring with a touchdown in the Troy State. Following graduation, Barker became the principal of Daisy Elementary School in Soddy Daisy, Tennessee.
