Tim Griggs

Tim Griggs, who helped develop Coker College athletics into a proud member of NCAA Division II and who served as an associate professor, coach and director of athletics at the college for more than 30 years, came to Coker in 1980 as the first-ever coach of the men's soccer team.

In 1988, he took on coaching duties for the newly formed women's soccer team as well, all the while maintaining his love for teaching as an associate professor of physical education. Then in 1994, Griggs was appointed director of athletics. He remained as the head coach of both the men's and women's soccer teams until relinquishing the men's squad in 1995 and then the women's team in 1998.  Griggs has an overall record of 194-185-30 and was named conference and region coach of the year twice.  

Although Griggs left coaching, he never abandoned the idea of providing students and student-athletes the best possible collegiate experience.  Known for his ability to organize and administer efficiently as director of athletics, Coker's athletics program prospered under Griggs for 15 years.

Among his accomplishments, Griggs assisted in transitioning Coker from the NAIA to NCAA Division II. He created five new athletic programs at the college -- men's and women's cross country, competitive dance and cheerleading, and women's golf.

During Griggs' tenure several Coker teams earned national, regional and conference success. Two teams and two individual athletes advanced to the NCAA National Tournament, 21 teams advanced to the NCAA Regional Tournament, and 15 teams won conference championships.

One of Griggs' more unique experiences was in 1994 when he worked with the World Cup.  Griggs assisted Hank Steinbrecher, the secretary-general of the United States Soccer Federation.  While working with the World Cup Griggs met many dignitaries, including former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. 

A native of Hartsville, Griggs was instrumental in Coker's involvement in the community, including the creation of Coker's highly successful Taste of Coker, which became a national example of a successful community engagement event. Griggs was active in NCAA leadership serving on the NCAA Division II Management Council, NCAA Division II identity committee,  NCAA Division II Nominating Committee, and was a member of the NCAA women's softball and soccer regional advisory committees.   

Griggs earned his bachelor's degree in physical education and business administration at St. Andrews Presbyterian College in 1977 and obtained a master's degree in physical education from Appalachian State University two years later.  He was a graduate assistant soccer coach at Appalachian State under Steinbrecher for a year before accepting the head-coaching job at Coker.