A former Kosciusko Whippets coach is receiving one of the highest honors in high school athletics.
The National High School Athletic Coaches Association has selected Bill Ward for induction into its Hall of Fame, recognizing his decades of leadership and impact on student-athletes in Mississippi and beyond.
Ward, a native of Ackerman, spent more than 30 years coaching football, girls basketball, and track across the state.
He began his tenure in Kosciusko in 1981, serving three years as head coach for track and girls basketball while also working as an assistant football coach for the Whippets.
After leaving Kosciusko, Ward moved to Pelahatchie, where he built a long and successful career spanning 33 years. His accomplishments there include leading his football team to a state championship in 2001.
Ward’s contributions to athletics extended beyond the field. He was inducted into the Mississippi Association of Coaches Hall of Fame in 2021 and served on the MAC Board of Directors from 2000 to 2013. He later held leadership roles as Vice President from 2013 to 2014 and President from 2014 to 2015.
Ward is one of two longtime MAC members selected this year for national induction, joining fellow Mississippi coach Anthony Jenkins.
The honor places Ward among an elite group of coaches from across the country who have made lasting contributions to high school athletics.
Shelia Pumphrey
March 4, 2026 at 8:35 AMCongratulations…
Tamara McNeal
March 4, 2026 at 10:48 AMHe was my basketball and track coach when I was in Kosciusko High School. Great job on your accomplishment Coach Ward. “Love each day.”
Ron Winters
March 4, 2026 at 11:27 AMCongratulations Coach Ward, he was one of good ones.
J>#34
March 4, 2026 at 12:28 PMCongratulations Coach!!! We went undefeated in 9th grade his first year in K.O. Great job Coach, enjoy all of your accolades.
Howard Sharkey Jr
March 5, 2026 at 6:07 AMMy 9th grade football coach went undefeated 1981!!!!
Howard Sharkey Jr
March 5, 2026 at 6:11 AMCongratulation Coach Ward 1981 9th grade football coach we did not lose a game