Barbara Redding, physical education teacher and coach at Capac High School, has been named the recipient of the 2005 Women In Sports Leadership Award by the Representative Council of the Michigan High School Athletic Association.

Each year the Representative Council considers the achievements of women coaches, officials and athletic administrators affiliated with the MHSAA who show exemplary leadership capabilities and positive contributions to athletics. The award was presented during halftime of the MHSAA Class A Girls Basketball Final in East Lansing on Dec. 4.

In 34 years of service to Capac Community Schools, Redding played an integral role in the growth and development of athletic opportunities for girls in the Capac area and around the state through her involvement on numerous committees and associations.

"We are delighted to recognize a true pioneer in girls interscholastic athletics," said John E. "Jack" Roberts, executive director of the Association. "Barbara's initiative and fortitude in the implementation of several girls athletic programs in the Capac school system had a positive effect on others in similar situations when female athletic opportunities were scarce. Her perseverance then, and her continued dedication, has helped to generate an interest in girls sports that is at an all-time high based on participation figures. We are grateful to Barbara and educators like her throughout Michigan."

While retired from teaching, Redding is currently in her third term as softball coach at Capac, one of the several sports she instituted during her three-plus decades at Capac. Upon arriving at Capac in 1970, Redding advised the Girls Athletic Association for three years and then began the push for girls athletic teams at the school. First came the implementation of a varsity track and field team in 1973, followed by volleyball and basketball in 1974, and finally softball in 1980. She also championed the push for equal pay for girls basketball coaching in the mid-70s.

A 1970 graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Redding coached track for that initial season, had stints as the varsity basketball coach (1974-81), volleyball coach (1974-77, 1987-95) and softball coach (1980-84, 1991-99, 2001-present). She also coached various sports at the subvarsity level on occasions, served as the Capac athletic director from 1982-84, and initiated the Southern Thumb Association cheerleading competition.

A leader in the forum of educational athletics, Redding started the senior athlete grade-point average award, created the scholar-athlete recognition board in the Capac gymnasium and coordinated the first Capac High School Career Day. Redding was one of the founders of the Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association in 1982, and served on a host of MHSAA Committees throughout her career.

Redding is just as active outside the school hallways. Among her numerous charitable endeavors are volunteering at the annual Capac Christmas Show Benefit for the needy and at the Seven Ponds Nature Center.