Theresa Gaffney Reiser (2011) - Hall of Fame - Montana State University Athletics

Theresa Gaffney Reiser

Induction:
2011
Class:
1958

Theresa Gaffney Reiser's family came to the Gallatin Valley more than a century ago, so describing her as a pioneer is literal in many ways.

But her presence - and achievement - on the Montana State's rifle team in the 1950's stands at the forefront. Theresa Gaffney competed as one of the best shooters in the nation competing in an era that offered few oppertunities for women to compete in intercollegiate athletics.

For her efforts, she earned the first Bobcat varsity letter ever awarded to a Montana State female. She capped that by becoming the first Montanan to win the college rifle national championship as a senior, a year after finishing second.

"She was very competitive and beat me on many occasions in the league matches and various tournaments throughout the state," said Lones Wigger, a former teammate who would gain international fame during his career. "We never traveled much in the days she competed so there was very little recognition for her."

According to Wigger, her success derived from a spirit undoubtedly rooted in her family's pioneering past.

"She hated to lose, and was the consummate competitor. Of course, beating the men was very important to her."

Theresa Gaffney Reiser remained in competitive rifle beyond her college years, holding state titles in Montana for four consecutive years and Wyoming for two straight years.