Tyee Griffin, who has been a part of LFC IA SoCal for nearly a decade, is now set to embark on a new journey to Monterey Bay to further his education and soccer career! Tyee’s journey is a testament to his exceptional skills, academic excellence, and an impressive 3.49 GPA
Tyee’s journey began nine years ago when he joined our Elite program (PCA) under Coach Adam Rider. Over the years, he has evolved and grown as a player and a person, and he progressed through the player pathway from Elite to F3, F2, F1, and Academy II until he reached the top academy team and was coached by Liam Brader. In addition, he helps with the men’s team whenever he is available.
A Journey Rooted in Determination
Originally from the Bay Area, where he played recreational soccer in Flight 3 and Flight 2, Tyee and his family moved to Irvine, California, when his mother, Kamilah, got accepted to study at the University of California, Irvine.
Tyee tried getting into a soccer program but was rejected many times. He later found his soccer home with the Irvine Slammers under now LFC IA SoCal coach Adam Rider who had him playing the Striker position. Tyee played on the team that went from Flight 3 on Irvine Slammers, which then transitioned to Flight 2 on LA Galaxy Orange County as he progressed. After LA Galaxy’s name change to Liverpool FC IA SoCal in 2020, Tyee stayed with the club playing for NPL.
Despite financial challenges, Tyee is grateful to LFC IA SoCal for being understanding and enabling him and his brother to continue playing. His mother also appreciates the opportunities the club provided for African American families in soccer, allowing kids to shine and succeed.
Tyee Griffin has been an absolute pleasure to coach since day one. Year on year Tyee has improved on the field with the fundamentals of his game being all about hard work, determination, and passion. Tyee was committed to staying true to his strengths & super strengths, while also working on his weaknesses year on year.
Coach Adam Rider
Tyee acknowledged Coach Adam’s pivotal role in his development, stating, “Coach Adam has always been there for me, and the club has been very supportive.”
Under Coach Liam Brader, Tyee played for the top Academy team, and his position evolved from a center-back to a wingback. This ignited Tyee’s realization that he could excel in soccer. Tyee’s mother, Kamilah, notes the coaches’ foundation-laying efforts, expressing gratitude for Tyee’s newfound love for soccer.
Coach Adam did really well to focus on his strengths and that really helped with his development. But when the switch went off, it was very heartwarming because he was very motivated and determined…Eventually he started to grow into all of his gifts and talents, worked really hard and started to really shine.
Kamilah Griffin, Tyee’s mother
Disciple, Hard Work, and Technical Improvement
Tyee’s commitment to improvement led him to enhance his long-ball skills, a directive from Coach Adam. With a ball and a wall, Tyee spent countless hours honing his technique. He used any ground he could to practice his soccer touch, which happened to be the wall of his house. He explained that it annoyed his neighbors, but he was chasing after his dreams. His mother fondly recalls witnessing the progress.
It was just such a pivotal moment when I started seeing the progress on the field. I was just like, ‘Wow, that’s my baby.’
Kamilah Griffin
In pursuit of his passion, Tyee also ventured into refereeing. He started the referee program with our club, and now he referees men’s games on the weekends to give back and make some extra income. He served as an assistant referee to Coaches Adam Rider and James Curry’s men’s games. Refereeing young kids helped Tyee take on skills he had not thought of, adding insight into perfecting his game. “Refereeing allowed me to see the game from a different point of view and made me a better player towards the referees during the games I played in,” He said.
I’ve been told I can’t do certain things. I’ve been told I wasn’t good enough. I wasn’t going to make it anywhere. I wasn’t going to go to college. I wasn’t going to do this or that, and now I am.
Tyee Griffin
Tyee persevered, driven by his faith. He said, “God has allowed me to develop. He blessed me with my abilities to accomplish what I want to accomplish.” He also acknowledges that nothing was handed to him, so he worked hard for everything he had.
Tyee is just as extraordinary off the field as he is extremely respectful, well-mannered and someone always willing to help his teammates and coaches out. He is the perfect role model for any young athlete looking to follow in his footsteps.
Coach Adam Rider
Getting into College Soccer
Tyee’s diligence and discipline caught the attention of collegiate soccer programs, ultimately leading to his commitment to a Division 2 college, California State University, Monterey Bay. Choosing genuine connections over a Division 1 offer, Tyee’s achievements extend beyond sports, aligning with his mother’s aspirations for him to become a college graduate.
Kamilah said, “When he got his offer from Cal State Monterey Bay, it was such a remarkable moment for all of us because I know how far he’s come and the sweat and tears that he put into getting to this point. It was a super great moment.”
Coaches and mentors expressed pride in Tyee’s achievements.
I look forward to watching Tyee’s journey continue over the coming years. I am super proud of the player And person he has become.
Coach Adam Rider
Tyee is a coach’s dream. He turns up every session and game with the same positive personality and desire to improve. His self motivation to work hard is infectious with his teammates, creating a culture of togetherness. Really happy and proud of Tyee and his achievements!
Coach Liam Brader
As Tyee embarks on this new adventure, LFC IA SoCal celebrates his growth, resilience, and the promising future that lies ahead. We take pride in being part of Tyee Griffin’s journey and wish him continued success both on and off the field!