For over 35 years, Terry Beckstead manned the mats of WIAA-sanctioned wrestling matches, mirroring the enthusiasm of student-athletes from every angle of his officiating duties. An avid fan of the sport, Beckstead became the first member of the Washington Officials Association to rank first at the State Championships in back-to-back years.

Beckstead’s eye for detail and dedication to Washington youth wrestling helped lay the foundation for a 25-year tenure on the board of the Western Washington Officials Association. With duties ranging from member-at-large to board president, Beckstead backed up his work on the mats as a mentor for other members of the association, instilling them with the same integrity and eye for detail that made him successful. “Just because your match is not a competitive duel,” he’d say, “call it like it is.”

When girls’ wrestling teams began making headway in Washington, Beckstead was one of the state’s first officials to lend his services. An advocate for equity and recognition across all sports, he encouraged officials and administrators to emphasize girls’ wrestling with the same level of enthusiasm as the boys’ programs. His services earned him a broad assortment of accolades, including the Chris McDonnell Inspirational Award for his leadership in officiating and inspiring other referees through example.

From his moral character to his outstanding citizenship, Beckstead embodies the WOA code of ethics. Without question, he was one of those officials who reflected the essence of how an official should call a match. For all of his work throughout the years, the WIAA is privileged to welcome Terry Beckstead to its Hall of Fame.