By Elizabeth Contreras
What sets Grove’s Gweneth Ward apart is how she has built her success through discipline and perseverance. While others might rely on sheer athleticism, Ward has spent years perfecting her shot and turning a perceived weakness into her greatest strength. With a family heritage rooted in basketball, Ward has embraced the sport as a legacy.
“I wasn’t naturally athletic, and that discouraged me,” Ward shared.
It was her hunger for more that carved a path to where she is now. Ward said shooting is the skill she has poured hours of energy into, and it has now become what she is most confident in.
She is known for her quick release and sharpshooting ability, the product of countless hours practicing drills passed down from her mom and grandmother.
“To be an athlete, you can’t just practice when you have to, you have to practice whenever you can and put the extra time in,” she added.
That determination carries over for how Ward handles challenges. She admitted she takes losses and personal mistakes hard, and while ruminating can erode confidence, Ward grounds herself spiritually.
“When that happens, I pray and ask God to take that burden from me and give me the strength to work harder,” Ward reflected.
In addition to her faith, Ward shared that the culture at Grove has played a huge role in shaping her confidence.
“Our team’s culture is special because of how supportive and welcoming everyone is,” said Ward, who has been part of the varsity program since her freshman year.
Ward said her favorite matchups are against the Jay Bulldogs. With family ties and friendships on the opposing team, those games feel more like spirited gathering than rivalries.
“I know a lot of the girls there, and I’m even related to a few of them,” she said. “But there’s still plenty of competitiveness and a strong desire to win.”
In the classroom, Ward applies the same dedication to her academics. While schoolwork comes more naturally to her than athletics, she still commits herself fully, giving 100 percent effort.
“It’s taught me how to find balance and enjoy both,” she shared.
Ward’s main goals this season are to improve her defense and give optimal effort. Though she doesn’t plan to play basketball after high school, Ward says that it will always be a part of who she is.
“Never give up,” she said. “Trust that God has a plan for you — one for good — and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you push yourself harder than you ever thought possible.”
