North Attleboro High School Alumni Association

Wayne Griffin
Excellence in Education Award
2025

Under the guidance of his Coventry (RI) High School wrestling coaches, Wayne "Griff" Griffin became the first in his family to earn a college degree. He continued his wrestling career at Rhode Island College (RIC), where he earned All-New England honors and became a Scholar All-American in 1988. After graduating with a B.S. in Industrial Management, Wayne pursued secondary education in Industrial Arts/Technology, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to education, coaching, and mentorship. His dedication to shaping the lives of hundreds of North Attleboro students and athletes has consistently emphasized the importance of family, education, and strong character.

Wayne began his coaching career at Barrington High School (1988–1997), developing state champions and New England medalists and achieving a 69-57-3 record. In 1997, he transitioned to North Attleboro, where he led the Rocketeers to 339 dual meet victories, including two Massachusetts Division II State titles (2016, 2018). His teams earned 16 Hockomock League titles, 17 DII South team championships, and 17 MIAA Academic Excellence awards. His excellence in coaching was recognized with multiple "Coach of the Year" honors, Boston Globe recognition (2007, 2016), and inductions into the Rhode Island Wrestling Hall of Fame (2016) and the RIC Hall of Fame (2021).

Beyond wrestling, Wayne has made a lasting impact on countless students through his teaching and involvement in programs like Destination Imagination and Heritage Day at North Attleboro Middle School, where he has served since 1994. His passion for education and mentorship extends into the classroom, enriching the lives of his students with his dedication and expertise.

An avid outdoorsman, Griff also directs the Sloyd program at Winona Camps for Boys in Maine and enjoys hiking the White Mountains, often leading teams to the summit of Mt. Washington. His love for nature and physical challenges complements his commitment to fostering resilience and strength in his students and athletes.

Wayne's career is marked by his unwavering dedication to developing individuals of great character and compassion. Supported by his wife Jeanne, their blended family of three stepchildren, and cherished grandchildren, Wayne continues to inspire through teaching, coaching, refereeing, and serving as a valued role model.

His legacy of mentorship and excellence remains a beacon for the North Attleboro community and beyond. He remains forever true to the mantra he made a hallmark of the NAHS wrestling program: Family. Academics. Athletics.