Born: 1973
Biography:
Vonda Ward is an American former professional boxer and NCAA basketball player. Born on March 16, 1973, she made a significant impact on both sports and left a lasting legacy. Her boxing career spanned from 2000 to 2008, during which she held multiple heavyweight world championships, including the WBC title in 2007. However, it was her remarkable journey and achievements outside of the boxing ring that truly shaped her into the inspiring figure she is known as today.
Ward’s early life was immersed in sports. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, with her renowned harness racer father Larry Ward, she had a natural inclination towards athletic endeavors. Ward attended Trinity High School in Garfield Heights, Ohio, where she excelled in basketball. Her talent was undeniable, earning her the prestigious title of Ohio’s Ms. Basketball twice. Additionally, she was twice named to the Parade All-American teams.
Her exceptional skills on the court led to numerous Division I scholarships from universities across the United States. Ultimately, Ward chose to accept a basketball scholarship at the University of Tennessee in 1991. Under the mentorship of the legendary coach Pat Summitt, Ward became a member of the Lady Vols basketball team. She showcased her abilities and helped propel the team to the NCAA basketball championship game in 1995. Although they fell short, losing to the University of Connecticut, Ward’s relentless drive and determination left an indelible mark on the sport.
Ward’s basketball career did not end with her college days. After graduating in 1995, she took her skills abroad, playing for a professional basketball club in Germany. Ward’s athletic prowess also led her to become a part of the American Basketball League’s Colorado Xplosion. Her contributions to the sport were recognized in 2012 when she was inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame.
However, fate had a different path for Vonda Ward. A broken leg cut her professional basketball career short, but it unearthed a hidden talent and passion for boxing that would redefine her life. In 2000, Ward made her boxing debut, delivering a knockout victory against Faye Steffen in the first round. She continued to dominate the ring, with her first four fights resulting in first-round knockouts.
By April 2000, Ward had already gained attention within the boxing world. She faced Genevia Buckwalter, who became the first opponent to make it out of the first round against Ward. Nevertheless, Ward emerged victorious with a second-round knockout. This victory would mark the beginning of a streak of twelve consecutive knockout wins.
Throughout her career, Ward faced numerous rivals, none of whom managed to make it past the second round against her. Her reputation as a powerful and determined fighter grew with each victory. In August 2002, she challenged for the IBA’s world heavyweight title and claimed the championship. Although her knockout streak came to an end, Monica McGowan became Ward’s latest conquest, lasting ten rounds before her defeat.
Ward’s most notable fight came in 2004 when she faced Ann Wolfe for the WIBA and IBA female light heavyweight titles. Unfortunately, this bout resulted in Ward’s only defeat, as she was knocked out in the first round. Despite this setback, Ward’s resilience and bravery in the ring solidified her place as a remarkable athlete and competitor.
Outside of her individual accomplishments, Ward’s contribution to society and women’s history cannot be overstated. Her journey from basketball to boxing showcased her ability to overcome obstacles and pursue her passions fearlessly. She broke barriers and shattered stereotypes, proving that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated sports. Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a testament to the strength and determination of women in sports.
Awards:
– WBC Heavyweight World Championship (2007)
– Inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame (2012)