Perrysburg softball standout Griggs holds her own under national spotlight

IRVINE, Calif. — The experience of playing in the PGF Futures All-American Game was rewarding for Perrysburg rising senior Hayley Griggs, and she feels she has more than held her own.

Griggs was named MVP of the contest, a Class of 2026 versus Class of 2025 clash featuring many players from larger states — often with better weather conducive for more year-round outdoor workouts.

“It’s tough,” Griggs said following the game in the California sunshine. “They’re able to be out here all the time, so you got to make sure you’re getting indoors and getting your work in.”

Griggs, who has committed to Florida State, was chosen as the game MVP after going 2-for-2 with an RBI in a 7-0 win.

Griggs recalled finding out she was selected for the showcase in early June.

“I was super shocked and honored to be seen by PGF and play in this game,” she said.

Last spring for Perrysburg, Griggs hit .495 with 12 home runs, 40 RBIs, 55 runs scored, and 11 stolen bases. That followed a sophomore season in which she batted .546 with 10 homers, 40 RBIs, and 48 runs. Griggs missed her entire freshman softball season after sustaining a torn ACL.

Griggs loved her experiences last week in southern California, but she feels she has work to do after her travel team, the Beverly Bandits, finished second in the 18U PGF national championship in 2023 and came in ninth this year.

“I’m excited to come back and compete again next year before going to college,” she said. “We have some unfinished business as a team.”

As for being the MVP on Saturday in game matching many of the top underclass players in the country, Griggs said it will be a night she will not forget.

“I’ll forever remember tonight’s game and always have fond memories,” she said. “Not just on the field and getting the two hits, but also for the friendships I’ve made and the fun we had in the dugout. We didn’t get to be together for more than a few hours, but it’s an experience I’ll never forget and really look forward to playing with and against these great athletes at the next level.”