Email:
coachriggs@dukecitygladiators.com
Phone: (850) 509-8036
Gladiators Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator Frederick Griggs grew up with a passion for football. His drive was heavily influenced by his grandfather Earl Griggs Sr., a former member of the Buffalo Bills in the late 1950s. His grandfather's inspiration was evident throughout Frederick's football playing days.
Frederick Griggs, a native of Tallahassee, Fla., is an All-State linebacker from his high school playing days. His collegiate career as a safety and cornerback resulted in two All-American titles. He pursued his dream of playing professional football. A dream that landed him a contract with the CFL out of NAIA college William Penn. Unfortunately for Griggs, an injury during minicamp resulted in him being released from the Calgary Stampeders. But his passion for football still remained.
He continued his professional football career by joining the arena football world. Landing at the IFL for the Cedar Rapids Titans. He was a powerhouse with the Titans for two years and left after an injury. Griggs then joined the Barnstormers followed by stints with the Boston Blaze in the Canadian American League and the Bloomington Edge in the CIF. His brief stint with Edge introduced Griggs to the CIF which resulted in him joining the Kansas City Phantoms. While with the Phantoms, he was traded to the Duke City Gladiators.
With the Gladiators, he became a dominant force on the defense winning defensive MVP during the first championship. During Grigg's second season with the Gladiators, he was named Co-defense player of the year. He was instrumental in helping the Gladiators achieve back-to-back championships with the CIF.
Following his two years playing for the Gladiators, he embarked on a new direction with the team as defensive backs coach. He feels that with his experience he is able to connect with players. He said, "I feel my ability to relate to players and understand the players as well as the business side of things will create a clear transparent work environment. This will be greatly beneficial to the players and the DGC organization to allow us to move forward toward continued success as we chase our third championship in three seasons.”
