Sarasota graduate to be inducted into FSU Athletics Hall of Fame

Sarasota High School graduate John-Ford Griffin will be inducted into the Florida State University Athletics Hall of Fame Aug. 31.

The 2012 class includes former football coach Bobby Bowden, quarterback Danny Kannell, women’s basketball standout Bev Burnett, All-America golfer Christian Raynor, Bowden’s longtime administrative assistant Sue Hall and university benefactor DeVoe Moore.

An All-State athlete at Sarasota, Griffin helped lead the Sailors to the 1996 state championship.

During his time at FSU, Griffin hit .427 and was a first-round MLB draft pick of the New York Yankees in 2001.

Griffin retired from professional baseball in 2010 and now co-owns The Powermill Sports Facility, which features baseball, softball and volleyball instruction for individuals and teams in addition to strength and conditioning for all ages.