Terry was a three year lette-man in football for Deshler, playing for Coach Buddy Moore and graduating in 1962. Following graduation from high school he received a scholarship to the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. While there, Terry played both offense and defense for Coach Shirley Majors, the father of legendary Tennessee Coach Johnny Majors. After his freshman season he suffered a shoulder injury that ended his football career. In 1961 Terry played on what many Deshler fans consider to be the best Tiger defensive unit ever, as they gave up only 54 points the entire season on the way to an 8-1-1 season.There were no playoffs then, but the season was highlighted by a 19-7 victory over the undefeated Decatur squad that was ranked as the best team in the state by the Alabama sportswriters. Terry was chosen Alabama high school "Lineman of the Week" by the Birmingham Post-Herald for his performance in that historic rivalry game. Additionally Terry was named to the 1961 All-TVC Team, 4-A All-State Team, and was selected to play in the Alabama High School All-Star game played at the University of Alabama.