Pioneer Athlete Spotlight: Rob Griffith

Oakhurst Swim Team. Age: 6. Sports: Swimming and baseball.

A year ago, Griffith was part of the Mighty Mini Orcas, learning and practicing in the Oakhurst Country Club pool but not competing in swim meets. This summer the six-year-old is not only competing but excelling. He finished sixth in the A Division of the recent Devil Mountain Pentathlon in Clayton. His favorite event is the backstroke and he’s posted county qualifying times in the back and freestyle. Head coach Jasmine Castillo says, “He has an enthusiastic, heartwarming and hardworking personality. Rob always has a smile on his face and his team spirit is infectious. The coaches are so proud of how far he has come in swimming.” In the spring, Griffith played in Clayton Valley Little League and will enter first grade at North Creek Academy next month. He will cap his first season of swim meets at the Concord Swimming Championships next weekend and Contra Costa Swim Championships the following week.

The Concord Pioneer congratulates Rob and thanks Athlete Spotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzicka who have been serving the Clayton and Concord area for 25 years at Family Vision Care Optometry. www.laceyandruzicka.com

Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@concordpioneer.com.