Vale Terry Reilly OLY
It is with great sadness that Archery Australia acknowledges the passing of Terry Reilly OLY, who left us peacefully on 21 March 2025 after battling cancer. He was 78 years old. Terry leaves behind a legacy as one of Australia’s distinguished archers and a leader whose contributions to the sport resonated on both national and international stages.
Terry began his archery journey in 1960 at the Adelaide Archery Club, quickly progressing from a determined junior competitor to a dominant force in Australian archery. Over his career, Terry won eight National titles, including four Target Championships (1972, 1973, 1974, 1977), three Field Championships (1973, 1974, 1977), and one Clout Championship (1977), earning the Best All Round Archer Award in the same year.
On the world stage, Terry represented Australia at four World Championships and two Olympic Games, placing 15th at the 1972 Munich Olympics and competing again in Montreal in 1976. He was also selected for the 1980 Moscow Olympic team. Terry’s international highlights include a top-ten finish at the 1973 World Championships and being part of the winning team at the prestigious 1975 Monaco Cup.
He dedicated himself to coaching, developing State and National coaching programs, and mentoring numerous archers—including Olympians and Paralympians such as Libby Kosmala and Natalie Cordowiner.
Terry’s administrative work was equally impactful. He held key positions at club, state, national, and international levels, including serving as CEO of Archery Australia, where he transformed the organisation and fostered partnerships with the Australian Institute of Sport. He also played a pivotal role in organising the 1987 World Championships in Adelaide and served as Venue and Competition Manager for Archery at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and Paralympics.
In 2002, Terry’s expertise was recognised globally when he was appointed CEO of the International Archery Federation (FITA), where he worked tirelessly to secure archery’s place in the Olympic Games and introduced initiatives like the World Cup series.
Terry’s outstanding service was honoured with multiple awards, including Archery Australia’s Silver and Gold Plaquettes and the FITA Silver Plaquette.
Even after retiring from his leadership roles—including as CEO of Yachting SA and Board Member of Sport SA—Terry remained deeply connected to the archery community, continuing to support and advocate for Adelaide Archery Club and ARCHERY SA.
Terry’s lifelong dedication to archery, his pioneering leadership, and his unwavering passion for the sport leave an enduring mark. He will be remembered not only for his achievements but for his generosity, mentorship, and commitment to the archery community.
Archery Australia extends our deepest condolences to Terry’s family, friends, and the entire archery community.
Vale Terry Reilly OLY.
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