Rising Stars: Meet Chris Griggs of Tempe, Arizona

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Griggs

Hi Chris, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m passionate about helping young athletes reach their full potential. With 17 years of experience coaching high school and college football, my mission is to provide athletes with the tools they need to succeed in sports, academics, and life. You can read more about my journey and philosophy in these articles from my hometown newspaper:Aces Elite has evolved from its beginnings during COVID—when it started in Chicago and Minneapolis training kids in offseason—into one of the nation’s premier 7v7, 5v5, and training programs. Entering its fourth season, Aces Elite has helped over 60 athletes secure scholarships at D1, D2, and NAIA schools, while more than 30 others have received substantial financial aid packages for Division 3. Serving athletes across 30+ states, Aces Elite is more than just a team; it’s a family that goes beyond the game, fostering character, resilience, and leadership.

The program’s independent model addresses the unique needs of junior college & post grad athletics, setting it apart from traditional junior colleges, which often face challenges with housing and facilities. Through a strategic partnership with Sonesta, Aces Elite provides state-of-the-art housing and training accommodations that prepare athletes for D1 and D2 environments. Players attend local community college classes in person, while Aces Elite supports their development with high-quality housing, meal plans, top-tier athletic facilities, and structured training. This holistic approach ensures players are prepared academically, athletically, and personally to excel in their college careers and beyond.

With strong relationships across college athletics and over 30,000 followers combined on X and a network of college coaches across the country, the Aces Elite brand and myself provide unmatched exposure, helping student-athletes earn scholarships and college offers. The program’s commitment to mentoring, coaching, and life skills equips players to thrive not only in sports but also in their academic pursuits and communities.

We will offer at the Junior College Level.
Men’s Football
W Flag Football
W/M Basketball
W/M Soccer
W/M Track
Softball
Baseball
Volleyball

We will offer at Post Grad Level
Football
M/W Basketball
Baseball

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Its has been a great experience but just like any great business the first couple of years has it ups and downs. Especially one that grows fast in short period of time. Having an Independent Junior College athletic program, we dont receive federal funded money from government or community college our athletes attend. So we have to raised funds from private investors and loaners.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve lived an exciting and well-traveled life, experiencing incredible opportunities thanks to my parents and my God-given talent in football. From a young age, I’ve connected with people from all walks of life, embracing different cultures and backgrounds along the way.

I graduated as the 4th all-time leading rusher in North Carolina history, but I didn’t fully apply myself academically. Now, I’m dedicated to giving kids the opportunities I once needed—helping them continue their education through my Private Charter Middle & High School, Independent Junior College, and Post-Grad Athletic Program.

For the past 15 years, I’ve been a Head High School Coach and an Assistant College Football Coach, guiding and mentoring young athletes to succeed both on and off the field. Beyond coaching, I’ve also run a home remodeling company, a business I took over from my father.

Above all, I’m a proud father to my 15-year-old son—he’s my greatest joy. I strive to make life easier for those around me, serving as a mentor to young athletes, helping them achieve their goals, and setting them up for a successful future for themselves and their families.

Having lived in multiple states across different regions of the U.S., I’ve been fortunate to experience a diverse range of cultures, which has shaped my ability to connect with and inspire others.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Trust your intuition and Gods plan for you and your life, and do it with passion and joy. Without Covid i wouldn’t have started my sports academy that has turned into a charter school and college athletic program.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Acejj9 @AcesEliteFC
• Facebook: Aces Elite Sports Academy
• Twitter: @ChrisGriggs9 @AcesEliteJucoPG @AcesEliteSTEAM
• Youtube: AcesEliteSportsAcademy