The ALMANIAC reports: End of a Denny-sty

KATELYN THOMAS
PHOTOGRAPHER
STAFF WRITER

3/30/2026

After 43 years of being part of the Alma College family, Head Softball Coach Denny Griffin has
decided to retire.

“Our President Joe Odenwald has told me to retire and has given me a three-year salary buyout
which I can’t turn down,” said Denny Griffin. The decision does not come easy for Griffin, after dedicating much of his life to the development and growth of Alma College student-athletes.

“The students and having the opportunity to impact their lives is the Why,” said Griffin. During his time at Alma, Griffin has held many roles. He has been the Head Athletic trainer, Intramural director, Instructor in Exercise and Health Science, Director of the Athletic Training Education Academic Major, Advisor, Men’s Athletic Director, Director of Athletics and Assistant Softball Coach.

Most notably, Griffin has been the Head Softball Coach for 38 years. Griffin has amassed an overall career record of 1,032 – 432, ranking him not only one of the most successful coaches in Division 3, but one of the most successful coaches of all time. Griffin did not do it all on his own: Assistant Softball Coach Phil Hansen has coached by Griffin’s side for 35 years, collecting the most softball championships as an assistant coach in the MIAA, and celebrated his 900th win in the 2024 season. Throughout his career, he has won 15 MIAA Championships, 11 MIAA Tournament Titles, six NCCA Regional Championships, and 1 NCAA Super Regional Championship. On six occasions, Griffin’s teams have made it to the NCAA National Finals.

His accolades do not stop there; Griffin has coached over 188 All-MIAA players, 11 MIAA MVP’s and four MIAA Most Valuable Pitchers. Over 100 of his players have received national attention, 19 All-Religion selections and 19 All-Americans. “As an All-American under his leadership, the biggest impact he had was teaching me that excellence isn’t a goal—it’s a habit. He instilled a level of discipline and mental toughness in the Maroon and Cream that has stayed with me for over 25 years,” said Brandee Bower (‘00).

On the national stage, Griffin was inducted into the National Fastpitch Coaches Association this past December. This is considered the highest honor in a coaching career. Griffin has also served on many committees both regionally and nationally associated with the NFCA.

Griffin’s greatest impact has gone beyond the field. Throughout his time at Alma, he has worked with hundreds of students. He has given them the opportunity to compete at the college level, while still being extremely involved in their academic endeavors.

“He’s helped me build confidence, even in moments of self-doubt, and created a team that’s not only built to win but grounded in a strong, positive culture. I’m grateful for the experience and the lessons he’s taught me, which will stay with me long after softball,” said Jordyn Porter (‘26).

Griffin has relied on the love of the game and tradition to lead his teams to victory. Former player, now assistant coach Brandee Bower has watched his evolution throughout his tenure. “I’m just relieved. I’ve been waiting 26 years for him to finally hand over the clipboard so I can stop suggesting drills he pretends not to hear,” said Bower. Whether his own player, other students, or staff and faculty, Denny Griffin’s impact has and will forever be the heartbeat of Alma College.

In retirement, Denny plans to travel with his wife, Tammy, and celebrate April Fools’ Day.