BUZZARDS BAY, Mass – Earlier this month, it was announced by Director of Athletics Mike Kelley that Willis Griffiths would be taking over as head coach of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Buccaneer softball program.

A Zanesville, Ohio native, Willis is a United State Marine Corp veteran (SGT). From 1987 to 1990, he competed on the US Marine Corp football teams at Camp Pendleton in California. He also played and coached five seasons of semi-professional football from 2009-2013 with the two-time Eastern Football League champion Taunton Gladiators.

As a softball coach, Coach Griff spent the last three seasons as an assistant coach at Bridgewater State University, a conference opponent of the Buccaneers. He is the former president of the Town of Bridgewater Girls Recreation/Travel Softball Program. He held multiple titles within the organization over a 13-year period. He also holds an ACE Level 4 Certification through the Amateur Softball Association of America.

"We are excited to have Coach Griff on board at the Academy." Said AD Mike Kelley. "His Military background will undoubtedly help him assimilate to the Academy culture and his experience coaching softball at various levels make him a great choice to lead the Buccaneers." Added Kelley

"I am very happy to be a part of this program and lead this team." Said Coach Griffiths. "There is so much potential in this program and with a brand new field to play on this season the sky is the limit when it comes to Buccaneers softball and I am looking forward to getting started." Added Griffiths.

Currently a sergeant with the Bridgewater Police Department, and an adjunct professor at Massasoit Community College, Willis holds a Master's of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Western New England University and is currently working towards his Masters of Education in Athletic Administration at Endicott College.