Colorado High School Activities Association

Leadership comes in many ways. But those who are familiar with the history of Colorado girls’ athletics know that its personification may well be Terri Ward.

Perhaps her form of leadership comes in not being able to say “No.” But it’s not hard to see why Ward holds the status she does.

A 1973 graduate of Niwot High School, and other than a short stint working for Ceal Barry and the University of Colorado women’s basketball program, she has been a part of the Cougar’s landscape ever since.

While she is a successful teacher and coach – she won her 300^th game tin 2018 at the helm of the girls’ basketball program – Ward’s efforts in the promotion and leadership of Colorado’s female athletics is unsurpassed.

She has coached girls’ basketball at Niwot for 34 years and had a 10-year stint as volleyball coach.

Combined with her tireless passion for girls’ sports, she is the face of Colorado girls’ athletics. This enthusiasm is reflected in her tenure as the CCGS President for 25 years.

CHSAA Hall of Famer Lo Hunter can be credited for seeing the leadership qualities in Ward. The veteran coach took Ward to her first CCGS meeting and then encouraged her to get more involved. She did.

Thirty years later, Ward is continuing her work promoting coaches and female participation.

Ward is active at all levels of sports, working not only at the prep level, but serving as a middle school clinician, volunteering at the collegiate and international levels. She is active in the 17U national program for USA Basketball, has been part of the Olympic support staff.

She is an ethical decision-maker who serves as an active role model for coaches of both genders.