Jeff Ward (2019) - Hall of Fame - Miami University RedHawks

Jeff Ward

Induction:
2019
Class:
1982

Ward, the top pole vaulter in Miami history, recorded a top clearance of 18-2 ½, which is over eight inches higher than the next closest on the school's top-10 list.

Ward captured three Mid-American Conference titles, winning the pole vault in both 1981 and 1982 and adding a decathlon title in 1982. The 1982 season also saw Ward excel at the national stage as he placed fifth in the pole vault at the NCAA Outdoor Championships to become an All-American. He was tabbed Miami Male Athlete of the Year in 1982.

Academically, Ward earned an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship. Ward helped Miami capture MAC team titles in 1979 and 1981 while placing runner-up in 1980 and 1982. He was a four-time NCAA qualifier and was a two-time Olympic Trials qualifier. He was an attending alternate for the 1983 World Championships, and earned the bronze medal at the 1983 World University Games.